It's a beautiful morning here with lovely blue skies up there and a real chill in the air too.

I am happy to report that this morning is much improved with fresh snow.

The second day of the season and it is starting with lovely blue skies in the region and sunshine. I envy the folk out there enjoying the first lifts of the day.

A good morning to everyone reading from here in Madarao Kogen, where it is officially the first day of the season.

Madarao Kogen is of course opening for the season from tomorrow. Yes! And here is what is planned to be open.

Another quick one to keep us up to date with the snow and to share a lovely photo from this morning... blue skies all round.

Quick report... lots of snowfall... things are looking very good for Madarao Kogen opening on Saturday!

With one week left to go before the resort officially opens for the 16-17 season, I'm happy to report the best part of 20cm of fresh snow since yesterday and the resort itself is reporting 20-30cm of fresh.

More snow to report today with another 8cm on the ground and hopefully somewhat more on the mountain.

The resort is reporting 15-20cm of fresh snowfall on the ground this morning since yesterday, and indeed there was the best part of 15cm on my car this morning.

A report this morning as I wanted to update you on the snow yesterday and add that to the total.

After the rain of yesterday, it is a bit colder this morning and snow is falling once again here in Madarao.

The second snowfall of the season! Everywhere is looking white once again as we enjoy some more snowfall here in Madarao along with some nice cold conditions.

After a long break and a good re-charge, it is nearly winter time once again here in Nagano Prefecture - and time for me to get ready to post my snow reports.