The snowfall was somewhat disappointing yesterday with not a whole lot to show for it.

There's a lot of cloud up there but also some blue sky and the appearing at times too making for some dramatic scenery at times. It's keeping nice and cold too.

Yesterday things got a bit on the wet side in the region, but this morning there is fresh snow on the ground.

Another 10+ cm on the upper slopes of Nozawa Onsen this morning and 7cm outside where I am here at base in the village, as the snow gradually builds up.

Perhaps a little unexpected but it's a bright and sunny morning - up top anyway!

Morning from Nozawa and I am happy to report that it is snowing.

It is a snowy start to 2016 with 20cm on fresh snow on the upper slopes since yesterday evening and snow down to the village.