Furano Ski Area reports that the Kitanomine Gondola will start operating today.

The slopes have been replenished by new snowfall overnight which is a bit on the wet side but is ideal for covering up some of the thin patches that were starting to occur on the lower slopes.

It is nice and sunny today with some cloud mixed in as well.

Furano was hit by a serious snow storm last night that dumped another 40cm at village level.

It is snowing at the moment and there has been another 5cm accumulation since the last report.

The snow front arrived late afternoon and continued through the night.

Yesterday the upper mountain received a substantial top up of new snow with light snow falling for most of the day.

Sailer Course is now completely open from top of the ropeway, down to the base.

There has been some light snow overnight which has amounted to 3cm in the village.

Furano Ski Area commenced operation for the 2013-14 season yesterday.

It is good news to report in Furano. Yesterday there was 25cm of snow at village level and things changed from brown to white overnight.

With only 12 days to go until the target opening date of Furano Ski Area the resort is focused on finalising preparations for the start of the new season.

The Cherry Blossoms may be blooming in Hakodate, but it is still ski season for one last day in Furano.

Good news for the die hard ski and snowboarders out there who haven't put their equipment into hibernation for summer.