What a day we have in Nozawa Onsen! If you ignore the long weekend crowds, this is pretty much as good as it gets. A massive 40cm has been recorded up top since last lifts yesterday, with 15cm down in the village.

Heavy clouds have moved on and we currently have sun and partly cloudy conditions. On and off piste conditions should be outstanding, but unavoidably crowded. Avalanche conditions are very high off-piste with an icy base layer... take necessary equipment and have experience when venturing into the backcountry. And never ski there alone.

Yesterday was an excellent day in Nozawa. We had heavy snow showers continue all day and with the minimal crowds fresh tracks were on offer right into the afternoon. The snow was so heavy at times that tracks were completely erased within a couple of hours, very nice!

Temperatures up high were extremely cold and the wind made it feel even colder. Those who braved the conditions were rewarded with super dry powder that Nozawa is renowned for.

The forecast is still looking promising looking ahead.

Light snow showers should recommence tomorrow, grading to heavy by last lifts. Sunday night and Monday morning should dump, we expect quite a bit of snow during this time. Following that light snow showers and cold temperatures should persist till Wednesday.

Lifts operating:
All lifts operating

Courses open:
All courses open except
Grand Prix
Kandahar East
Kandahar West

Official snow depths
Yamabiko
310cm

Uenotaira
270cm

Hikage
160cm

Nagasaka
160cm

Karasawa
120cm