Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1486cm Weather overview Cloud Wind Light Temperature 2C base / -3C top Visibility Fine Posted at 8:56am on Saturday 13th April 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Lots of cloud around this morning but breaks in them as well. For now early on things are nice and calm and I would imagine planned lifts will be open this Saturday morning. Rain might happen later on in the day though and overnight into tomorrow... possibly more snow at higher elevations? There may be leftovers of that into tomorrow morning, along with stronger winds forecast. Going back to what I mentioned yesterday, my good friend was out there on Thursday and reporting some really nice almost-deep conditions on the mountain. Up to 20cm or so in places? Nice weather conditions by the sound of things as well. Not bad for the getting on for the middle of April! Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Saturday 13th April 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1486cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 112 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 164cm reported on 19 days April 2013 snowfall 27cm reported on 5 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 1464cm Weather overview Clear and fine Wind Light Temperature -1C base / -5C top Visibility Great Posted at 8:42am on Monday 1st April 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here April is starting with a lovely morning here in Niseko. And some new snow to enjoy out there as well, nice. Not peak season powder like snow, but fresh snowfall all the same. There's just a few wispy clouds here and there, but apart from that it's blue skies over the mountain. All resorts seem to be open as planned today so it should be a great day to be out sliding down the mountain. Japanese people don't celebrate Easter of course but there were more than a few people here for the Easter holidays. From now on, the slopes will be getting quieter once again through until the end of the season. A good time to meet some 'locals' as many get a bit of a break from peak season busy-ness! In resort news, from today Niseko Village will be operating the Niseko Gondola, Community Chair and Wonderland Chair lifts until the end of next weekend. Planned closing dates at the resorts are posted below, all subject to change of course. Planned resort operations Niseko Hanazono - until Sunday 7th April Niseko Village - until Sunday 7th April Niseko Annupuri - until Monday 6th May Niseko Grand Hirafu - until Monday 6th May Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Monday 1st April 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1464cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 107 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 164cm reported on 19 days April 2013 snowfall 5cm reported on 1 day 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 1cm Snowfall at base this season 1459cm Weather overview Cloud, snow Wind Varied Temperature -2C base / -6C top Visibility Variable Posted at 8:24am on Sunday 31st March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here We had a dusting of snow last night in Niseko though it didn't amount to much just a trace really here. I see that the report below is reporting 3cm. It might be the last day of Match, but it's still snowing. Conditions were clearer earlier on this morning. The sun was out and it looked like we might be on for a clear fine day, but as I type this report it has clouded over and snow is falling from the skies. I doubt it will last long though and the local forecast is for a generally cloudy day. So rather changeable conditions at the moment. It is currently -2 degrees here in the Hirafu village area. There's a moderate wind blowing but it looks like resorts plan to have lifts open as planned this morning. As noted below, today's Avalanche Report is the last one of the current season and as always many thanks to the Niseko Avalanche Institute. We will continue to keep these Niseko Now reports updated though until the end of the season in May. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -6C, 3cm new snow crystals, calm and sunny. No peak data. Coastal data: wind SW6m/s, 1.0m waves, pressure 1019hPa. Annupuri peak predicted windspeed at noon: W10m/s. Snow depth at 1000m: 400cm. Light winds and small amount of snow drift development with current high pressure system. General avalanche risk is low. However if temperature rises shallow surface avalanches will easily occur. Caution on open steep slopes. Peak gates are expected to open at 9.30am. Whether cracks are present or not, on cornice slopes around 1100m the probability of full depth avalanche is getting higher. These will wipe out everything in their path. Dont ride the valley bottoms. This information is issued to protect the freedom and minimum safety for all mountain users. The mountain is never completely safe. With care most accidents can be avoided. Ducking ropes, then other people following your tracks increases the probability of accidents. Don't over estimate your skills, experience or equipment. Listen to patrols advice. When the gates are closed it is for good reason. This is the last of 108 avalanche reports this season. It does not mean the mountain is safe now though, dangers still exist. Be safe out there. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Sunday 31st March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1459cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 107 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 164cm reported on 19 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 1448cm Weather overview Cloud, light to moderate snow Wind Moderate Temperature -9C base / -15C top Visibility Poor Posted at 9:27am on Tuesday 26th March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning I do have some new snowfall to report. About 10cm of it in fact. And it continues to snow now. The snow depth at Niseko Grand Hirafu has gone up again and we are still above 5m. I was just taking a look back at last years reports and it seems that on this day last year that figure was standing at 425cm, so we're doing pretty good I'd say. Not much of a wind to bother the lifts this morning so we are all open as planned. Temperature hovering around 0 degrees as I write this report this morning. Tomorrow is likely to be warmer with the sun due to make an appearance. Some lifts are now closed as the number of people on the slopes decreases: Niseko Annupuri - Jumbo Number 2 pair and Family pair Niseko Village - Morino Chair Niseko Grand Hirafu - Ace 1, King 1, Ace 4 Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -6C, 3cm new snow (broken particles). Moiwa 800m: -7C W5m/s,slight snowdrift growth. Coastal data: wind WNW9m/s, 1.0m waves, pressure 1012hPa. Annupuri peak predicted windspeed at noon: SW10m/s. Weak westerly system produced some snow overnight, 10cm in Hirafu area. Peak gates are expected to open at 9.30am. Listen to patrols advice before leaving resort area. Avoid getting caught in large scale spring avalanche, do not ride in valley bottoms. They are predicted to start around 900m-1100m, Kozan no Sawa (BackBowl) sidewall and Osawa(F5) especially. Beware standing near cornices, they have grown to massive size over the winter and can collapse instantly. Also think about safe zones to wait in. With rising temperatures shallow avalanches will occur easily on steep slopes. If they fracture over a large area they travel at high speed and are very dangerous. Use caution riding and traversing, travel 1 by 1. This report is issued daily with the hope of making out of bounds riding safer. Have a good day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Tuesday 26th March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1448cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 105 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 153cm 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 17cm Snowfall at base this season 1362cm Weather overview Snow Wind Light Temperature -10C base / -13C top Visibility Generally poor Posted at 8:40am on Saturday 9th March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and welcome to the start of another weekend. It's a snowy and windy start to the day - it's one of those days when it is difficult to put a number on it because the wind has been blowing it all around. So I'm going to have to go with how much there is outside here which is about 15-20cm. Spoken to some friends around the area just now and asked them - some say less than 5cm, one said nearly 30cm. So there you go. The safest thing to say is that we have got some fresh snow to play in this morning and you'll find places where it's drifted giving some depth and others where it's covering the what we had up until yesterday. Caution needed. So yesterday after a sunny morning and that awful sound of melting snow from around the building, it clouded over and got darker in the afternoon and wet snow started to fall. Thankfully the snow quality we see this morning is of a better quality. It's nice and cold this morning too. Niseko Grand Hirafu is reporting a temperature or -13C at top and -10C at base. The thermometer outside here is saying -7C as of just after 8am. What's not as nice is the strong winds howling outside we have experienced this morning. It's still early and not all lifts are at their opening time yet but we can definitely expect some disruption this morning. Hirafu have said that their Ace Number 2 Center Four, Ace Number 3 and 4, King Number 3 and 4 lifts are on stand-by, with the lower lifts open. At Hanazono all three lifts are on stand-by. Niseko Village reported wind of up to 30m/s at 7:40am but their three lower lifts are operating. Best to check with the resorts to get the latest. We can expect snow and wind through today and tomorrow. Take care out there. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -7C, 20cm new snowfall, broken particle snow, blizzard. Moiwa 800m: blizzard, bad visibility, snowdrift growth, -12C. Annupuri peak: -16.8C. Coastal data: wind NW21m/s, 3.1m waves, pressure 1001hPa. Annupuri snow depth 1000m elevation: 400cm. Blizzard conditions due to a strong winter weather pattern forming after the passing of the low pressure system. The avalanche risk is extreme today, regardless of elevation, due to the rapid growth of snowdrifts. From snowfall transition and observation, snowdrifts have grown 80-120cm on leeward slopes around 800m. The drifts are weakly bonded to 8th Mar layer and prone to avalanche. Most avalanche accidents occur during a storm, however the risk continues after the wind has begun to drop. All gates will be closed. Today do not ride in the valley bottoms. Do not duck ropes and ski out of bounds. Mountain guides should make safety their highest priority while respecting Niseko Rules. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Saturday 9th March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1362cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 94 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 67cm reported on 6 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 1300cm Weather overview Cloud and light snow Wind Light Temperature -2C base / -7C top Visibility Variable Posted at 8:56am on Friday 1st March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a bit of snowfall overnight to report this morning from Hirafu. Perhaps up to around 5cm or so, though I see below that the Avalanche report is reporting none. It's a mild morning here, not too far off zero and probably overnight tonight the mild conditions will continue. Hopefully it will be snowing but some forecasts have us down for a bit of rain before the snow starts. Fingers crossed that doesn't happen. As I'm writing this report it seems that the top Wonderland Chair at Niseko Village is not operating yet, the top lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu (Ace Number 4, King Number 3 and King Number 4) and the top Hanazono lift aren't moving due to wind conditions up there. According to the forecast, rather than improve wind is forecast to get stronger during the day today. Conditions likely to change during the day with snow and wind moving in. From tomorrow teperatures are likely to drop and we should be seeing snowfall through the weekend. Strong winds tomorrow are very likely to play with lift operations so keep that in mind. Avalanche Information Niseko base at 6am: -4 deg, no new snowfall and calm wind conditions. Moiwa 800m: -4 deg, wind calm, small amount of snow drift development. Annupuri peak: wind SW 0.9m/s, -10.3 deg. Coastal data: wind SE 6m/s, wave 0.6m, pressure 1017hpa. Pre low pressure system wind is calm and snowdrift development from yesterday afternoon has been low. According to data and observations the general avalanche risk below 1000m is low, however snow pack stabilization has been slow, special care needs to be taken at leeward slopes and knolls around 800m elevation. The weather is expected to change suddenly as the low pressure system reaches us. All peak gates will be closed today for the safety of all resort users. Other gates are yet to be determined. Please follow the Ski Patrol advice and don’t duck ropes to leave the resort area. Many people have gotten lost in the mountains in bad weather. This combined with poor decisions have lead to disaster in the past, best to leave exploring for a better day. Avalanches can occur easily in newly formed snowdrifts with a slight stimulation. There are also many other dangers in the winter mountains to be aware of. Please don’t overestimate your skills and equipment. Plans need to be adjusted according to the current weather and snow conditions. Best not to go to far from the resort today, be aware of a sudden change in the weather. Have a safe day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Friday 1st March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1300cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 89 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 5cm reported on 1 day 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 1295cm Weather overview Cloud Wind Light Temperature -1C base / -6C top Visibility Generally fine Posted at 8:53am on Thursday 28th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A 5cm or so layer of new snowfall this morning to report from Hirafu on this last day of February. And it's a mild start to the day as well with the thermometer pushing up towards positive numbers. Earlier on when I got up it was cloudier but there are some patches of clearer sky here and there now and the sun shining down on us at times. A moderate wind at the moment and that is forecast to get stronger later on in the day as well as more snow falling. Actually the wind today is prevening some lifts from operating early on. Currently the top lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri are affected as well as the Annupuri Gondola and the Niseko Gondola. Hirafu Gondola is operating as normal for the moment. Snow likely through the weekend, along with potentially windy conditions and colder temperatures. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -2C, 5cm of humid low-pressure snowfall. Moiwa 800m: westerly wind is picking up and making new snowdrifts start to develop. Annupuri peak: WSW6.1m/s, -7.5C. Coastal data: WNW15m/s, 0.9m waves and 1010hPa. The wind is complex in high altitude as a small low-pressure is passing. According to observations and snowfall transition until this morning, the general avalanche risk is low, however future snowdrifts above 800m will be unstable and easily collapsible. Gate 2 & 3 will be closed for the sake of all resort users. Other gates still to be determined. Please respect the ski patrol's decisions. The snow in the trees is not bad, but a bit heavy. The visibility is poor and light is flat, beware of hitting trees and falling into cracks. A westerly storm is forecasted to pick up from noon. Better stay close to the resort today. Do not duck ropes. Be safe, enjoy and have a nice day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Thursday 28th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1295cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 88 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 1263cm Weather overview Cloud, light snow at times Wind Varied Temperature -7C base / -10C top Visibility Fair to poor Posted at 8:39am on Monday 25th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Ah yes, into another week and it's a nice calm Monday morning here in Niseko. We have our usual 10cm of new snow since yesterday, and while earlier on apparently the sun was even making an appearance, right now light snow is falling. It's not as cold this morning and right now around -5C. There's not much wind and so all of the mountain should be open as planned. Today will see snow showers but from tomorrow it still looks like we will see generally clearer conditions and less snow falling, with probably milder temperatures as well. Leading up to next weekend we can expect another cold front to move in and bring with it potentially significant snowfall to the region. For now though it should be a few good days to enjoy the current conditions. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -10C, snowing, 10cm of crystal snow and calm morning. Moiwa 800m: -13C, light development of snowdrifts, 15cm of new snow and bad visibility. Annupuri peak: NNE3.2m/s, -15.4C. Coastal data: N12m/s, 1.6m waves and 1019hPa. A moderate northerly wind (10-12m/s) has stagnated overnight and the snowdrifts above 800m development is gradual and the snowpack is relatively stable. The avalanche hazard remains high in large vertical open steep slopes such as the Backbowl sidewalls, Osawa cornice slopes and Higashione cornice slopes, but the general avalanche risk around the resort and under treeline is relatively low. Gate 2 & 3 are scheduled to open at 10:30am. Please follow the ski patrol's instructions. The snow is forecasted to pick up around noon. Beware of falling into cracks as the visibility will be bad. Be extra careful at the entry of steep slopes, pay attention to what in front of you as there might be a cracks whether in the trees or open slopes. Looking at this season’' snowfall transition, the avalanche risk in slopes above 1000m remains very high throughout the winter. Carefully choose your touring route. Prudence is required in the surrounding peaks too. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Monday 25th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1263cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 85 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 284cm reported on 21 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 1238cm Weather overview Cloud, snow in places Wind Varied Temperature -9C base / -14C top Visibility Variable Posted at 8:35am on Friday 22nd February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Add another 15cm of fresh snowfall so to the tally here in Hirafu, and add a bit more for the overnight delivery on the slopes of the mountain. This morning it's a fairly similar story to yesterday if I remember correctly, with just a bit less wind perhaps. Here over on the Hirafu side anyway, though I see that Annupiru are reporting gusts of up 18m/s on the upper parts of the resort there. Even so, it would seem that all of the top lifts are scheduled to open up as normal this morning as things stand at the moment. Visibility on the mountain looks variable depending on where you are. There was even a bit of sun trying to break through the cloud over in Hanazono just a short while ago. Probably temporary. Snowing up in Hirafu. So, generally cloudy with snow likely to be falling through the day at any time a similar pattern likely to continue over the weekend. We might get clearer skies once we get into early next week. Hope you have a fun weekend whether you are going to be in in Niseko or not. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -8C, 15cm of mixed crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: W10m/s, -12C, development of unstable snowdrifts. Annupuri peak 1308m: WSW13.8m/s, -16.2C. Coastal data: WNW14m/s, 2.1m waves, 1013hPa. The isobars are spacing out and the wind & snow is gradually calming down. All data, snowfall transition and observations show that the avalanche hazard is lowering; however leeward slopes above 800m, namely all Backbowl area, Osawa cornice slopes, Mikaeri bowl, backside Higashione knolls and steep slopes are still likely to slide at anytime. Gate 2 & 3 will be kept closed for the sake of all resort users. Others to be determined, please respect the ski patrol's decisions. Accidents are likely to happen after storms, right after the lift re-started operations. The weather will turn better in the morning, but it is recommended to start from the tree-runs and gradually go higher, better not rush and drop from high gates. Beware also of hidden cracks; remain in control, be prudent. Stay humble; better not overestimate your own skills and the performance of your gears. The snow is in good condition. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Friday 22nd February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1238cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 82 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 259cm reported on 18 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 1188cm Weather overview Cloud, very light snow Wind Light Temperature -4C base / -8C top Visibility Fair Posted at 8:38am on Tuesday 19th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. It is a calm morning here, some very light snow falling at the moment and about 10cm accumulated since yesterday. So light snow early on, but it's due to pick up later on as well as stronger winds. Hopefully we might get away with lift operations not being affected today. But it looks like we could be in for some potentially heavy snowfall along with windy conditions later on tomorrow in the region. It's not quite as cold this morning and about -5C at the moment at base. Consistent snowfall lined up on the forecast daily through into next week. I see this morning that Niseko Grand Hirafu are reporting a snow depth of 500cm on the upper areas of the resort. That got me looking at the JMA snow fall numbers for Kutchan again this morning and it seems that we are up to 150cm in February 2013. That is already more than the disappointing February 2011 and 66cm off the 216cm recorded in February last season. With the forecast looking promising over the coming week, I'd say we are well on course to beat last year. What fun we have! Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -5C, 10cm of new snowfall and calm morning. Moiwa peak: NW5m/s, light development of snowdrifts. -8C. Annupuri peak: NW2.7m/s, -10.5C. Annupuri 1000m snowpack: 370cm. Coastal data: NW5m/s, 0.9m waves and 1005hPa. A westerly wind is forecasted to pick up in areas above 800m from before noon as a small low-pressure system passes east. This morning's snowfall is typical snow crystals falling on the front-side of a low-pressure system. This morning’s avalanche risk is relatively low, however will rise as the wind & snow picks up. Beware of loose snow avalanche. Gates 2 & 3 will open at 10am, please respect the ski patrol’s instructions. A strong storm with heavy snowfall and wind over 15m/s makes snowdrifts develop rapidly in leeward slopes. These developing highly wind-affected snowdrifts are extremely unstable, collapse with the slightest stimulation and triggers a slide. Beware of the future snowfall transition. The avalanche hazard should be evaluated by how it snows, not how much it snowed. Many of the avalanche accidents happen during and just after storms. This morning's off-piste snow condition is good. Beware of cracks and hitting trees. Ride safe, better not overestimate the performance of your gear. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Monday 18th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1188cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 79 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 209cm 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 1116cm Weather overview Cloud, light snow Wind Light Temperature -4C base / -9C top Visibility Generally poor Posted at 8:23am on Thursday 14th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Yesterday we ended up with a very fine day in Niseko. The sun was out and we got some very nice blue skies. Snow clouds moved in and by late afternoon it was snowing. The result is up to 20cm or so of lovely fresh dry light snow on the ground this morning in the village area. No doubt more than that up on the mountain. Snow is still falling now and visibility is pretty low this morning. A small price to pay. It's not as cold this morning, right now around -4 degrees in the Hirafu area, and it's fairly calm with a light north westerly wind, so no worries about lift operations this morning - they should all be up and running as planned at the resorts. The forecast for the coming week looks like we should see pretty consistent snowfall on and off and temperatures remaining suitably low. Sounds good to me. Should be a good day. See you tomorrow. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am:-6C, 15cm of crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -8C, 20cm of new snow, calm wind and no development of snowdrifts. Annupuri peak:W5.8m/s, -11.6C. Coastal data: WNW11m/s, 0.8m waves and 1019hPa. A notable layer (Feb 13th) has formed due to yesterday's sunshine and 15-30cm of new snow has blanketed it. The pressure isobars are spaced out and the no notable development of snowdrifts can be observed under 800m. A moderate westerly wind (10m/s) is stagnating above 1000m and slowly forming soft slabs in leeward slopes. Large surface slab slide from Feb 13th layer is to be taken into consideration in 40°leeward slopes, however the general avalanche risk is low. The snow in the trees has been reset. Another magical day in Niseko. Gates 2 & 3 are scheduled to open at 10am. Be equipped and well prepared for backcountry riding. Intermittent snowfall is forecasted during the morning and the visibility will remain bad. The are no indications in the out of bounds areas, ignorantly following other people or unknown tracks may lead you straying in the middle of nowhere. Carry at least a map. One easy mistake can lead to serious consequences in the backcountry. Beware of hitting trees and falling into cracks. Cracks are forming everywhere now and cannot be seen from above. Have a nice day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Thursday 14th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1116cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 74 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 137cm reported on 10 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 991cm Weather overview Cloud, light snow Wind Varied Temperature -4C base / -14C top Visibility Varied Posted at 8:55am on Monday 4th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here 5cm of fresh snow to report from Niseko this morning. The strong winds that we experienced yesterday and prevented the top parts of the mountain opening are thankfully not blowing us around this morning and it is much calmer. (If there's one thing about Niseko I'd change, it would be the wind!). This morning we're all back to normal and all lift should be moving as planned. It's about -4C out there with Hirafu reporting a temp of -14C on the top area of the resort. Snow is currently falling and fingers crossed we'll have snow coming down all day. Visibility seems decent on the mountain considering. Perhaps a break in the snow tomorrow, but back to consistent snowfall from mid week through into the weekend. I promised to bring you those Kutchan town Japan Meteorological Agency snowfall numbers for January 2013. And here they are. 268cm, say the JMA. That's compared with 290cm in January 2012 and 420cm in January 2011. In fact, the number was lower than any year since 2008. Which is kind of surprising. The longer-than-usual dry spell in the latter part of January meant that the numbers didn't do much increasing towards the end. Remember of course, these are numbers for Kutchan town and not for the ski resorts themselves. You can probably add at least another 50% onto that for an idea of mountain snowfall, and you can see the numbers we report every day in these reports as well to get an idea of how much is falling at the base of the resort area. Just mentioning these purely as a point of interest! And just for the record, the number for February last season was 216cm. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Monday 4th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 991cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 66 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 12cm 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