What about this then? While it is always the most exciting to be able to report heavy snowfall, it's always good to be able to report some blue skies and sunshine as well.

It's a nice and cold morning here and I measured 9cm of fresh snowfall a short while ago.

The day is here! Yes, today is officially the first day of the ski and snowboard season.

It is a very good morning to you from here in Niseko.

I have more snowfall to report to you this morning from here in Hirafu.

Hello from here in Hirafu and - as expected - Niseko Grand Hirafu is not going to be able to open today and opening has been delayed.

Good morning from Niseko and here were are in the week when the ski lifts plan to start moving. The big question is... will they be able to?

It's keeping cold and today the forecast is for light snow and cloud. Perhaps a few bits of blue sky might show through in the afternoon.

Good afternoon from the Niseko area and this morning I have some fresh snowfall to report.

I'm really not getting to enjoy much rest before the season starts!

Another 8cm of lovely snow on the ground at my measuring point this morning and very cold this morning.

Yesterday we ended up being rained on. And quite heavily at times too.

Hello everyone from here in Hirafu... and I'm actually quite excited this morning.

Good morning everyone, and I have some more snow to report this morning - 3cm of it in fact, down here at base.