Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1260cm Posted on Sunday 6th May 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. I'll quickly move on from the cloudy, rainy conditions of yesterday. There's still a lot of cloud around this morning but it is not raining. However, we might not escape some rain later on this afternoon. It's not the most exciting way to end the season, but there you go... So here we are. It's Sunday 6th May and today is the last day of the official ski season here in the Niseko area with Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village all part open for the day. It's worth pointing out that even today the official snow depth on the upper slopes of Niseko Grand Hirafu is 255cm! A look back at the 2017-2018 season As has become tradition, over the winter season I add a ‘monthly review’ post at the beginning of each month. And like last year, I will keep this final wrap up relatively short because those monthly reports pretty much cover the season as it is happening. For reference, here they are: March 2018 monthly review February 2018 monthly review January 2018 monthly review December 2017 monthly review November 2017 monthly review And of course, please do play around with the info on the Snowfall Analysis page, which you can get to using that big blue button up top. Let’s reading. As the 2017-2018 season closes, here is the snowfall that I have measured near the base of Niseko Grand Hirafu over the last six seasons over the month of April: April 2018: 13cm April 2017: 0cm April 2016: 6cm April 2015: 3cm April 2014: 13cm April 2013: 32cm It's always a bonus when we get fresh snow in the month of April. More important and excite is the grand total for the entire season. Observed snowfall at base for the 2017-2018 season (total): Cue drum roll... 17/18 season total: 1260cm 16/17 season total: 688cm 15/16 season total: 992cm 14/15 season total: 1144cm 13/14 season total: 1163cm 12/13 season total: 1493cm So, we end the 2017/2018 season with me observing about 12.5m of snowfall nearby Hirafu base. That is way more than last season of course, and more than the three seasons prior to that as well. Pretty good. Take that, most other ski resorts in the world!! ;) And for completeness, here is the data that the Japan Meteorological Agency report from their observation station in Kutchan town: April 2018: 25cm April 2017: 4cm April 2016: 18cm April 2015: 3cm April 2014: 24cm April 2013: 27cm 17/18 season total: 1038cm 16/17 season total: 835cm 15/16 season total: 841cm 14/15 season total: 969cm 13/14 season total: 946cm 12/13 season total: 1051cm --- Now that the 2017-2018 season has finished, it becomes part of history. Next up is - cue big reveal! - the 2018-2019 season. And 2018-2019 has a lot to live up to. I will be here, hoping for a top quality season. But however it pans out, I will be giving you honest reporting based on exactly what I see and hear. And I will keep any cheese on my toast! Anyway, that’s it from me for the moment. I am now going to go into hibernation mode. I will be back with you (hopefully) totally refreshed in November. I hope you enjoyed reading my reports this season. I did my best and I'm happy that I was able to post every day since the lifts started moving through until today. If you want to send me any comments you can do so here. Please note that unfortunately I will not be able to answer any questions, whether they are about Niseko or toast; but I really do appreciate reading any feedback (and I thank anyone sending comments in advance). Thank you and see you in November. Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Sunday 6th May 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1260cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 99 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 13cm reported on 3 days May 2018 snowfall 0cm Previous report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1260cm Posted on Saturday 5th May 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello everyone. This is kind of my last proper report of the season, coming to you from my secret underground lair. (* I like that one, thanks! Muahahah!) Tomorrow I'll post my final season wrap-up and the message SnowJapan message. So please do come back for that - it will probably appear later than usual, and will remain up until November. OK, so on to today. It's cloudy and foggy up on the hills too. Some spots of rain as well earlier on this morning and we might see some more early morning but it should ease off properly. Keeping pretty chilly too. Tomorrow also looks like it will be a mix of cloud with perhaps some rain later on. A little warmer too for the last day of the season. --- Tomorrow is the last day of ski lift operations here in Niseko. Booooo! --- Saturday 5th May 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Ace Number 2 Center Four - King Number 3 - King Number 4 - Hirafu Gondola Courses that remain at least part open: - Detour for Beginners - Shirakaba - Center - Large - Rinkan - Jumbo - Dynamic Official snow depth: - Top: 260cm - Base: 0cm --- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 - Jumbo Number 4 Official snow depth: - Top: 230cm - Base: 20cm --- Niseko Village Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Niseko Gondola - Wonderland Chair Official snow depth: - Top: 240cm - Base: 5cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Saturday 5th May 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1260cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 99 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 13cm reported on 3 days May 2018 snowfall 0cm Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1260cm Posted on Wednesday 2nd May 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu. A cloudy morning with some foggy conditions again being reported by Hirafu on the upper slopes. And it seems that there is a good chance of some rain later today and into tomorrow. Tomorrow is of course a national holiday and the first of a cho-long weekend. There's not much else to report really. Today I will be working on my monthly round-up report. I haven't decided yet if that will appear in my last report in one of the reports before then. The suspense!! --- 5 days left of ski lift operations, including today. --- Wednesday 2nd May 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Ace Number 2 Center Four - King Number 3 - King Number 4 - Hirafu Gondola Courses that remain at least part open: - Detour for Beginners - Shirakaba - Center - Large - Rinkan - Jumbo - Dynamic Official snow depth: - Top: 270cm - Base: 0cm --- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 - Jumbo Number 4 Official snow depth: - Top: 280cm - Base: 25cm --- Niseko Village Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Niseko Gondola - Wonderland Chair Official snow depth: - Top: 280cm - Base: 10cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 2nd May 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1260cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 99 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 13cm reported on 3 days May 2018 snowfall 0cm Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1260cm Posted on Friday 27th April 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I think Mt Yotei has disappeared! Or, it might just be very hazy. I'm hoping the latter! It is quite bright this morning but that haze is the headline, I would say. Hopefully it might get a bit clearer. It's not due to get that warm today, still not really getting up into double digits... tomorrow should be warmer. --- Golden Week Golden Week is a period from the end of April through early May containing a number of national holidays. Those holidays are as follows: - 29th April is 'Showa Day' (Showa-no-hi), the birthday of former Emperor Showa - 3rd May is 'Constitution Day' (Kenpo-kinenbi) - 4th May is 'Greenery Day' (Midori-no-hi) - 5th May is 'Children's Day' (Kodomo-no-hi) What this means for 2018 is that most people will enjoy two long weekends - 3 days this upcoming weekend and then 4 days off the weekend after: Long Weekend 1: Saturday 28th April - Monday 30th April Long Weekend 2: Thursday 3rd - Sunday 6th May Some people may even be lucky enough to have/take Tuesday and Thursday off next week, giving them a long 9 day holiday! The weather is often really good over the Golden Week period and of course the end of Golden Week is also the end of ski lift operations here in Niseko. --- 10 days left of ski lift operations, including today. --- Friday 27th April 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Ace Number 2 Center Four (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 3 (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 4 (* operating daily until 6th May) - Hirafu Gondola (* operating only on 21st, 22nd April & 28th April - 6th May) Course info: - Most of Hirafu remains open - Lower part of Super closed - All of the Hanazono area is closed Official snow depth: - Top: 325cm - Base: 35cm --- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 - Jumbo Number 4 Official snow depth: - Top: 330cm - Base: 45cm --- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Now closed Niseko Village Now closed Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Friday 27th April 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1260cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 99 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 13cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1260cm Posted on Friday 20th April 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu. And as expected, it's another fine one. The sun is out and the sky is clear... though somewhat hazy, especially look out over to Mt Yotei. It is going to be rather warm over the next few days too with temperatures rising to around 15-16C in town. T-shirt weather! But be prepared to be asked 'samukunai desu ka?' (aren't you cold?) if you go for that option! ;) The forecast is for continued fine weather through the weekend and into early week. The Hirafu Gondola should be opening up again for operations over the weekend. --- 17 days left of ski lift operations, including today. --- Friday 20th April 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Ace Number 2 Center Four (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 3 (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 4 (* operating daily until 6th May) - Hirafu Gondola (* operating only on 21st, 22nd April & 28th April - 6th May) Course info: - Most of Hirafu remains open - Lower part of Super closed - All of the Hanazono area is closed Official snow depth: - Top: 395cm - Base: 95cm --- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 - Jumbo Number 4 Official snow depth: - Top: 400cm - Base: 80cm --- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Now closed Niseko Village Now closed Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Friday 20th April 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1260cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 99 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 13cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1260cm Posted on Friday 13th April 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's Friday and it's the 13th. Oooh, scary! Putting aside my absolutely not unfounded fears for the day, and after a day of changeable conditions yesterday there's a dusting of snow on the ground here this morning. Just a dusting. Well, there was - it's gone now. But I wonder if there might be a little more higher up. And it does indeed feel fairly cold at the start of the day. For the moment it is generally cloudy but we might get to enjoy some sunshine during the day. --- Friday 13th April 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Ace Family quad (* operating daily until 15th April) - Ace Number 2 Center Four (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 3 (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 4 (* operating daily until 6th May) - Hirafu Gondola CLOSED TODAY (* operating only on 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd April & 28th April - 6th May) Course info: - Most of Hirafu remains open - Lower part of Super closed - All of the Hanazono area is closed Official snow depth: - Top: 430cm - Base: 130cm --- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Planned lift operations: - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 (* operating daily until 15th April) - Jumbo Number 1 - Jumbo Number 4 Official snow depth: - Top: 410cm - Base: 120cm --- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Now closed Niseko Village Now closed Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Friday 13th April 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1260cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 99 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 13cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 7cm Snowfall at base this season 1260cm Posted on Tuesday 10th April 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and... hurray! I have more fresh snow to report. 7cm of it, in fact. And what's more, the sun is out and it we are enjoying mostly clear blue skies with just a few friendly-looking clouds hanging around. It is a lovely morning and definitely should be fun out there with a high temp of around 7C forecast for later on in the day. I think I am going to have to celebrate with an extra slice of toast with plum jam... once I get back from enjoying some early tracks. Can't resist this morning. The forecast seems to be showing some rain tomorrow, possibly heavy and windy too. --- Tuesday 10th April 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Lifts operations: - Ace Family quad (* operating daily until 15th April) - Ace Number 2 Center Four (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 3 (* operating daily until 6th May) - King Number 4 (* operating daily until 6th May) - Hirafu Gondola CLOSED TODAY (* operating only on 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd April & 28th April - 6th May) Course info: - Most of Hirafu remains open - Lower part of Super closed - All of Hanazono area closed Official snow depth: - Top: 440cm - Base: 135cm --- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Lifts that remain operating: - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 (* operating daily until 15th April) - Jumbo Number 1 - Jumbo Number 4 Official snow depth: - Top: 410cm - Base: 130cm --- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Now closed Niseko Village Now closed Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Tuesday 10th April 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1260cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 99 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 13cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 1253cm Posted on Sunday 8th April 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. And it really is a good one, with a chunk of fresh snow to report. (Not sure chunk is a good word to use, but I'll leave it in there. Good word, chunk. Reminds me of chocolate). Anyway it almost feels like proper winter again this morning. It is fantastic to see a covering of snow on the ground and I will very much enjoy scooping it off the top of my car once I get this report up. I'm thinking of ice cream now. But seriously, it actually looks pretty decent quality too and not heavy wet stuff. Hurray! So yes a nice surprise of a morning and it will be fun to see how much snow has fallen at higher elevations up there at the top areas of the resorts. One of my secret agents with possibly reliable inside info is telling me saying 8cm or so, perhaps even a little more. Looking ahead to the coming week there's a mix of weather on there including some clearer weather and some rain with perhaps more snow higher up. Which would be nice. (The snow bit). --- Today is of course the last day of the season for the Niseko Hanazono and Niseko Village areas of the mountain. But not to fear! Niseko Grand Hirafu and Niseko Annupuri will remain open and I will be posting through until Sunday 6th May. Yey! --- Sunday 8th April 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Niseko HANAZONO Resort Plans to be open daily until TODAY! Lifts that remain operating: - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four - Holiday Number 1 - Hirafu Gondola - Swinging Monkey - King Number 3 - King Number 4 - Hanazono Number 1 quad - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad Official snow depth: - Top: 420cm - Base: 130cm Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open daily until Sunday 6th May Lifts that remain operating: - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 - Jumbo Number 1 - Jumbo Number 4 Official snow depth: - Top: 400cm - Base: 120cm Niseko Village Plans to be open daily until TODAY! Lifts that remain operating: - Village Express - Niseko Gondola - Wonderland Chair Official snow depth: - Top: 380cm - Base: 120cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Sunday 8th April 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1253cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 98 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 299cm reported on 24 days March 2018 snowfall 49cm reported on 8 days April 2018 snowfall 6cm reported on 2 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 13cm Snowfall at base this season 1136cm Posted on Wednesday 21st February 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning I have 13cm of fresh snowfall to report with most of that coming during the day yesterday. With that being adding to my totals, I have observed 237cm for the month of February up until today, and the total for the whole season rises to 1136cm. Impressive! We have a week left in February and with regular snow on the forecast it seems very likely that we are going to surpass the number for February 2016 (266cm). Can we get up to the 316cm observed in February 2013? And how about those season totals. Already I have observed more than each of the previous four seasons - and close on double what I observed during that 'Epic' season ;) last year - and the numbers are creeping up on the 2012/2013 season. Excite! The snowfall usually slows down and there's not as much during the month of March of course, but we can still usually expect around 100cm more or less. It's noticeably colder this morning and - without wanting to sound boring - it's snowing. :) Top lifts appear to be opening as planned this morning. Yey! Oh hold on (as I am about to post this)... it looks like the Gondola and top lift at Annupuri are affected by windy conditions over there. Doh! --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -8°, 5cm new snow. Moiwa 800m: -13°, NW12m/s, 20cm new snow, cornice development. Annupuri 1150m: -16°, NW20m/s, 30cm new snow, cornice and snowdrift development. Hirafu 1250m: -18°, SW10m/s, 20cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NNW15m/s. Kamui Cape: WNW13m/s, 1013hPa, wave 2.2m. We are in the middle of a typical winter weather pattern and a westerly snow wind 10-15m/s is blowing above 800m on west side, cornices and snowdrifts are slowly becoming very large. Snowdrift development is not uniform and breaks easy from an inconsistent surface. Beware of cornice collapse or rider stimulated avalanche at following locations: Mikaeri bowl cornice slope, Osawa cornice slope, Kozan no sawa side wall cornice slope, Fujihara no sawa cornice slope and Higashi One cornice slope. Cornice growth is has been massive and they are breaking much further back than you would expect. Do not get too close, if you go down with one when it collapses you will get hurt, or worse. From observation and data, the general avalanche risk is low. Below the tree line in the forest snow is good. Avoid the valley terrain under cornices and steep knolls. Gate opening is yet undecided and dependant on lift operation. Please listen to the patrols advice. Entering strictly off limits areas is prohibited under Niseko Rules. Do not duck ropes to go out of bounds. Beacons are recommended, they may save your or your friends life. Beware bad visibility and frostbite. Have a good day. --- Wednesday 21st February 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu & Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from King Number 2) should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 515cm - Base: 260cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts should be operating - Annupuri Gondola and top Jumbo Number 4 lifts are on hold at the start of the day Official snow depth: - Top: 400cm - Base: 260cm Niseko Village Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from the Country Road Chair lift) should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 400cm - Base: 280cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 21st February 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1136cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 81 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 237cm reported on 17 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 14cm Snowfall at base this season 1123cm Posted on Tuesday 20th February 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from here near Hirafu base. And this morning I have 14cm of fresh snow to report, mostly from yesterday during the daytime, and light snow is currently falling. I need to post my report early this morning and so at the moment I don't have any specific news of possibly lift disruptions due to windy conditions. My apologies. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5.00am: -8°, 15cm new snow. Moiwa 800m: NW17.6m/s, 30cm new snow, cornice and snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -13°, strong NW wind, major cornice and snowdrift development. Hirafu 1250m: -15°, strong wind from varying directions, snowdrift development, 15cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NNW12m/s. Kamui Cape: WNW9m/s, 1013hPa, wave 2.0m. A strong NW snow wind is blowing above the tree line with rapid snowdrift development and cornice growth on leeward slopes. From tests, snowdrifts are fracturing on a granular layer (from large wind and temperature gradient), causing 50cm surface avalanches. Mikaeri Bowl 800m, Osawa cornice face 1000m, all of Kozan no sawa, upper Fujihara no sawa, far side Higashi One the avalanche risk is high all day. Avoid riding cornice slopes, knolls and steep open slopes. Ride one by one from ridgeline. Avoid going near cornices. Avalanches are a natural occurrence and only become an accident if people are involved. Danger is everywhere, by making wise decisions most avalanches can be avoided. Do over estimate your knowledge, skills and equipment. Make cautious choices. The weather above 1000m is a lot different to the valley. Beware a sudden change in weather. Gate openings yet to be decided. Please listen to the patrols advice. This avalanche report is published to prevent accidents of ski resort users. The avalanche risk is not that high when evaluating individual data. Avoid riding in valley bottom. Snow in the forest is fantastic, is your beacon switched on? --- Tuesday 20th February 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu & Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from King Number 2) should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 515cm - Base: 245cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 390cm - Base: 260cm Niseko Village Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from the Country Road Chair lift) should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 390cm - Base: 280cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Tuesday 20th February 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1123cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 80 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 224cm reported on 16 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 16cm Snowfall at base this season 1109cm Posted on Monday 19th February 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Here were are on another Monday morning. And for you this morning I have another 16cm of fresh snowfall. It's snowing now and rather nicely too, with lovely big flakes coming down at some speed. That's what we like. It has been an impressive week! I have reported an observed 169cm of snow over the last 8 reports and I note also that my total for the season has now risen to above 11m. And it looks set to continue. Here's hoping that there will be less wind today and while the report below mentions good visibility, at the time of me putting this report together things look rather limited. Anyway, lovely snow conditions for those lucky enough to be here. Oh yes, on that subject... --- A predictably anonymous person who apparently got out on the wrong side of their bed yesterday had a right old moan at me via email for not being 'excited enough' in my last few reports. I thought I was suitably excited, but just for that person: Bottomless. Epic. Incredible. Massive. Amazing. All Time! (Etc) Feel better now? Hopefully that has suitably improved the quality and believability of my reporting. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -10℃, 5cm snowfall, calm. Moiwa 800m: -11.1℃, light breeze, 15cm snowfall. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, light breeze, 10cm snowfall. Hirafu 1250m: -15℃, light wind, 15cm snowfall, good visibility. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW9m/s, Kamui cape SW12m/s, 1015hPa, 0.9m waves. The isobars are spreading out and the ocean and mountains are in calm conditions. The snowdrifts developments have settled down and the snowpack is stable. The general avalanche risk is relatively low. Peak gates are expected to open. Please listen to the patrol’s advice, be geared up and step out of bounds. The snowdrifts and cornices development above 1000m elevation during the past week has been quite extreme. Slides from Feb 16-17th low-pressure snowfall layer and/or uneven layers within the snowdrifts are still to be expected. Collapsing cornices or ski cutting could still trigger an avalanche in higher elevation. Do not traverse steep slopes or knolls terrains in the Backbowl and Osawa. An avalanche triggered in upper elevation would run through the valley and sweep everything on its path, including everybody at the bottom of the valley. The snow in the tree runs below 1000m elevation is excellent. Beware of hitting trees and falling in cracks. Winter mountains are never 100% safe, but most risks can be avoided by being prudent. Monitoring of the strictly off limits areas are enforced, people being caught there will be banned from all Niseko resorts. Have you switched your beacon on? Beware of sudden weather changes. Have a nice day. --- Monday 19th February 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu & Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from King Number 2) should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 515cm - Base: 245cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 390cm - Base: 260cm Niseko Village Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from the Country Road Chair lift) should be operating Official snow depth: - Top: 390cm - Base: 280cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Monday 19th February 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1109cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 79 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 210cm reported on 15 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 17cm Snowfall at base this season 1093cm Posted on Sunday 18th February 2018 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning I have 17cm of fresh snowfall to add to the reports, though with strong winds blowing it all about I suspect that you'll easily be able to find examples of more or less in different places. Sun lovers! I'm afraid there doesn't look like there is much potential for clear skies and sunshine over the coming week. The snow clouds are due to be with us right through the week with regular snow continuing to fall. While a bit of sun and clearer skies would be nice every now and again so we can all take something of a breather and enjoy some lovely scenery, I'm guessing that most people who choose Niseko are more than happy to just see fresh snow coming down to continually fill in tracks. Anyway you never know we might get some breaks. Unfortunately it's still windy out there and at the start of the day the Niseko Gondola and Annupuri Gondola as well as some other top lifts are affected. See below for latest update just before 8:30am. Pesky wind. But still, there's lots of lovely fresh snow everywhere to enjoy at the moment, so we can cope. I hope you enjoy your Sunday wherever you are. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -8℃, 15cm snowfall. Moiwa 800m: northerly 16m/s at 5am, 10m/s at 6am, -10.8℃, large development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, NNW15m/s, difficult to groom due to large amount of snowdrifts. Hirafu1250m: -13℃, strong northerly gusts, 20cm snowfall with snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei cape N14m/s, Kamui cape NE10m/s, 1011hPa, 2.6m waves. The winter pressure distribution has set in place, generating a strong northerly storm from last night to pre-dawn. The wind is settling down, however snowdrifts have developed drastically. Those new deposit of snow have reached 80cm in 12 hours in upper leeward slopes above 800m. The avalanche risk is high during the morning in Makeri bowl, Back bowl, Annupuri bowl and Higash-One. Potential trigger layer is Feb 17-18th low pressure snowfall. Gates opening is unconfirmed; please respect the patrol’s decisions. The tree runs in leeward aspects are mostly reset, however better watch out as there are wind-blown spots and wind-loaded spots are mixed up. Accidents mostly occur during and just after storms. Ride one by one. Do not stimulate cornices and knolls. Do not stay put at the bottom of the valley as avalanches strike from above. Beware of cracks. Helmets and beacons are not mandatory, however are highly recommended. Beacons may save not only your life but your buddy’s too. Have a nice day. --- Sunday 18th February 2018 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu & Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from King Number 2) should be operating - Top Ace, King Number 4 and Hanazono Number 3 lifts on hold at the start of the day due to weather conditions Official snow depth: - Top: 510cm - Base: 240cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts should be operating - The Annupuri Gondola and top Jumbo Number 4 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to wind conditions Official snow depth: - Top: 390cm - Base: 260cm Niseko Village Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts (apart from the Country Road Chair lift) should be operating - The Niseko Gondola is on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds Official snow depth: - Top: 390cm - Base: 280cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Sunday 18th February 2018 Total snowfall at base so far 1093cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 78 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (31st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 406cm reported on 27 days January 2018 snowfall 305cm reported on 26 days February 2018 snowfall 194cm reported on 14 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com