Independent snow and weather reporting from the Madarao region of Nagano New snowfall at base 36cm Snowfall at base this season 316cm Weather overview Snow Wind Moderate Temperature - Visibility Poor Posted on Thursday 28th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Madarao Now report can be found here . Morning everyone. This winter storm is still over the region and providing us with further snow. The resort is reporting 30cm of fresh snow; I am measuring 36cm. Wind has been a factor, so it has been blown about a lot meaning there are drifts and more/less in places. We should be over the peak of it now though with things expected to calm down during the day today. Perhaps we might get to see a bit of sun at times from tomorrow. Even if things are calmer and brighter by the weekend, come Monday more snow is due to be back over Madarao. That kind of regular pattern sounds good to me. The coming weekend should be really great. Quite a few other people will probably be thinking the same, so plan to get here early is my best advice. Madarao Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Thursday 28th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 316cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 14 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 58cm (on 27th December) November 2017 snowfall 60cm reported on 3 days December 2017 snowfall 256cm reported on 11 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 Madarao. 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 Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 24cm Snowfall at base this season 203cm Posted on Thursday 28th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Good morning from Hakuba. More snow to report this morning after a snowy and windy day yesterday. It's building up very nicely now. The 'fresh snow' headlines from the resorts: Hakuba Cortina: 40-50cm base; 50-70cm top - taking their official snow depth up to over 3m Hakuba Iwatake: 20cm Hakuba Happo-one: 20cm Hakuba Goryu: 20-40cm Hakuba 47: 20-30cm I have 24cm of observed snowfall at base to add to the report too. There is still a bit of wind around this morning which seems to be affecting mostly lifts at Happo-one and Tsugaike Kogen, but we're hoping that may ease off as often happens. Some forecasts even give us a chance of seeing a bit of sun later today. For now though it is still snowing. Once things calm down, I expect pretty much everywhere to be fully (or at least almost fully) open and available. A good way to end the year - with more potentially heavy snowfall due to be with us in the first few days of January. Hakuba Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Thursday 28th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 203cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 19 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 32cm (27th December) November 2017 snowfall 47cm reported on 5 days December 2017 snowfall 156cm 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 Hakuba. 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 24cm Snowfall at base this season 519cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here The strong winds, heavy snowfall and very cold conditions have continued. I got another 24cm of fresh snow to report, though once again I need to mention that the wind has been blowing it around big time and so look in different places and you'll see more and less. I am guessing that actual snowfall is probably considerably more. It has been rather wild, to say the least. Though the winds are expected to be less today, they are still expected to cause some lift disruption. Official 'sauces' are this morning apparently once again having trouble and so the snow depths are not updated and I am unable to confirm lift operation status at time of writing. (Sorry!) Be extra/very safe out there - there really is no need to push yourself at the moment. Once this storm calms down proper and passes, conditions should be truly excellent. Snow is still expected over the next few days. For calmer and clearer conditions perhaps we can look to the weekend. :) --- And now for something completely different. Here’s something I prepared yesterday... “Your snow reports suck and are way off the money. Get it right.” Such was the ever-so-charming email – reproduced above in full - that someone sent in to SnowJapan yesterday. It was bravely sent in without a name and using an invalid email address that bounced the form. (Oh, but of course!) Whenever these kinds of comments are sent in we often feel they are often probably done as some kind of ‘hilarious’ lark, maybe a drunken bit of fun to try and get some kind of rise – and SnowJapan are not in the habit of rising to such bait. But SnowJapan have given me permission to make a few comments today. So please indulge me! Point 1: Which snow reports exactly? All of them? Do they all suck? Or just some of them? Maybe just one of them? Mine perhaps, or a different one? Point 2: In what way do they ‘suck and are way off the money’? Note: If you genuinely would like us to ‘get it right’, how exactly are we supposed to do that if you do not specify such things? Point 3: And here’s a jolly good idea. If you are going to waste your time being so confrontational, why not man-up - or indeed woman-up - and put your name to your comments, rather than hide behind the cowardly anonymity of t’inter? Actually, I think I know the answer to that one. The internet really is such a wonderful thing. It allows us to instantly avail ourselves to all sorts of important kitten-related cuteness (though I prefer monkeys myself), endless AKB48 videos and also allows us to easily spend too much money shopping in the Christmas sales. Doh! But it still often perplexes me how it also seems to turn some folk into really rude, ungrateful and manner-free trolls. On second thoughts, I’m pretty sure these people are exactly like that with or without the internet; the internet just brings it out of them and to the fore. But to address the issue for relative newcomers: If I make a mistake in these reports, I am keen to know about it. I will correct it and I will also likely apologise for it in a future report. The reports on SnowJapan are here to tell you what is happening, not what we all want to be happening or to feed you some agenda-driven message. I am certain that is the case with the other reports. A large amount of time, effort and care is put into the reports. Every single day for 4-6 months, depending on the report. I know that when I am in the swing of things I probably spend over 30 minutes every day putting this report together. Sometimes a bit less, sometimes more than that. And for the most part I really love doing it. Hopefully that comes across in my reports. You don’t have to love our style of reports, but if you think they are so bad and are unwilling to elaborate further than ‘they suck’, here’s a novel idea – don’t read them. Last I heard, you aren’t paying for them. And SnowJapan might be happy to save on some bandwidth. Comments are welcome, and we will always consider genuine stuff that is sent in. Offensive comments, insults and generally bad-mannered and rude shouts will be totally ignored. Behind the scenes we might briefly shake our heads in disbelief and/or have a bit of a chuckle, but we’re not losing any sleep over it. That's because we do the best we can, stand by what we do and most importantly we absolutely know where we’re coming from. When I make posts like this - I know, I have been known to a few times a season - I actually enjoy it. It’s a bit like discussing stuff over a few pints with good friends. Anyway, thanks for indulging me again. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -10℃, 30cm snowfall, stormy. Moiwa800m: -12.8℃, W12.2m/s (max 29m/s), large snowdrifts developing. Annupuri1150m: -18℃, W20m/s, 50cm snowfall at base. Hirafu1000m: -15℃, light wind, 50cm snowfall. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW20m/s, Kamui capeW13m/s, 995hPa, 3.3m waves. The wind is slowly calming down, however strong westerly wind persists in western side of the mountain above 800m. 5am observations showed that the snowdrifts are yet to stabilize, easily fractures with a slight impact. The avalanche risk is extremely high in Niseko and surrounding mountains. Potential trigger layer is 24th Dec’s layer of warm snow, or the collapsing of the snowdrift itself. 60cm thick surface slab slides are to expected in 1000m Backbowl and Osawa sidewalls. The storm remains strong and visibility is bad. Heavily wind affected dense and deep snow blankets the area below treeline. Better stay inbounds today. Snow is abundant and deep in Hirafu and the eastern area. Beware of falling and suffocation. Many of the winter mountain accidents occur when pushing too far during bad weather. Once the weather settles down, the snow will stabilize and the mountain will be ready to be enjoyed safely. Niseko is under a once in a decade cold spell. Be flexible with your travel plans, better not push things in this weather. All gates are closed today. Chair lifts operation is undetermined. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. --- Wednesday 27th December 2017 Please note snow depths not updated today - unable to check official information Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu & Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts except Ace Number 4 and King Number 2 are operating ** Strong winds are likely to be affecting lift operations Official snow depth: - Top: 270cm - Base: 110cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts are operating ** Strong winds are likely to be affecting lift operations Official snow depth: - Top: 210cm - Base: 160cm Niseko Village Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts except Country Road Chair are operating ** Strong winds are likely to be affecting lift operations Official snow depth: - Top: 220cm - Base: 170cm Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 519cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 35 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (21st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 331cm 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 21cm Snowfall at base this season 324cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . The winds are still with us but should be less intense than yesterday. Overnight there has been 21cm of new snow on the ground which will be more in some places and less in other due to the wind. With overcast conditions and light snow coming down visibility will be limited in places with some flat light. Hopefully the wind doesn't stop the Kitanomine Gondola like it has done for the last couple of days as there sure is going to be some nice snow up there. Kitanomine Zone open. Furano Zone open. Furano Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 324cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 33 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 28cm (5th December) November 2017 snowfall 125cm reported on 13 days December 2017 snowfall 199cm reported on 20 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 Furano. 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 Shiga Kogen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 33cm Snowfall at base this season 249cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Shiga Kogen Now report can be found here . Good morning from Shiga Kogen, enjoying a real blast of winter at the moment. Big flakes of snow falling this morning and it has been building up quickly. It is one of those days when you ask different people and they'll all give you different opinions of how much snow we have got. Strong winds blowing the light snow around doesn't help in that respect! My measurement is 23cm, though I am hearing anything from 15cm-40cm from different people. Bottom line - a nice new layer and it is still snowing so we are getting more by the hour. I wouldn't be surprised if some lift operations are affected by these conditions though after just checking places seem to be open as planned for the moment. The only specific things I can confirm at the time of writing is that the Number 2 Gondola at Yakebitaiyama and the Gondola and a few lifts at Okushiga Kogen are affected by the wind and on hold. Some of the official snow depths are... interesting. (For their comical value! Come on guys, let's try to keep them updated!) :) Full on winter and it should be with us for at least another day or more. Shiga Kogen Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 249cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 23 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (14th December) November 2017 snowfall 47cm reported on 6 days December 2017 snowfall 202cm 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 Shiga Kogen. 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 Myoko region of Niigata New snowfall at base 81cm Snowfall at base this season 438cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Myoko Now report can be found here . Tons of snow. 81cm and falling (and it could be a little more; my two measuring points had different results….). Looks like it will just keep on going…. Gotta run, but that’s the big news. We are in full season mode. And the snow is insane. Myoko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 438cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 14 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 81cm (27th December) November 2017 snowfall 61cm reported on 3 days December 2017 snowfall 377cm reported on 11 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 Myoko. 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 Nozawa Onsen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 53cm Snowfall at base this season 205cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . It is a fantastically snowy morning in Nozawa. True Nozawa style. The resort has reported over 50cm of fresh snow over the entire mountain since yesterday with closing in on 70cm up at Yamabiko. Tons of snow. It's still snowing and windy and should be through today and tomorrow. Visibility is limited and very poor in places. Be excited, but always be careful and know where you are going. There's more than enough fresh snow to play in today. If you want sunshine, maybe Sunday. Excellent. I'm off out there! Fresh snowfall (as reported by the resort): - Yamabiko (1407m): 67cm - Uenotaira (1230m): 58cm - Hikage (660m): 55cm - Nagasaka (615m): 55cm - Karasawa (563m): 50cm Official snow depth numbers: - Yamabiko (1407m): 225cm - Uenotaira (1230m): 180cm - Hikage (660m): 120cm - Nagasaka (615m): 115cm - Karasawa (563m): 100cm All lifts operating except the following: - Mizunashi triple - Utopia pair - Kandahar pair All courses now at least part open except the following: - Challenge 39 wall - Mukobayashi - Grand Prix - Hachiman - Kandahar Nozawa Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 202cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 14 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 53cm (27th December) November 2017 snowfall 21cm reported on 2 days December 2017 snowfall 184cm reported on 12 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 Nozawa Onsen. 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 Madarao region of Nagano New snowfall at base 58cm Snowfall at base this season 280cm Weather overview Heavy snow Wind Moderate Temperature - Visibility Poor Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Madarao Now report can be found here . Wow, it really is snowing big time at the moment. The resort is reporting 50cm, I am measuring 58cm. Probably more in places; wind has been blowing it around. Great quality too. And, it is still coming down and forecast to continue. Not the kind of weather that some people want, but the delivery of snow is most welcome. Wrap up; know where you're going; take care. Have fun! I need to go and dig myself out of my home. Madarao Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 280cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 13 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 58cm (on 27th December) November 2017 snowfall 60cm reported on 3 days December 2017 snowfall 220cm 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 Madarao. 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 Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 32cm Snowfall at base this season 179cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . You want fresh snow. We got snow! I am very happy to report heavy snowfall in Hakuba this morning - been spending time checking information which has led to a later-than-usual report... apologies! So let's get to it: First of all the headlines. The the fresh snowfall that resorts are reporting this morning: Hakuba Cortina: 70-80cm (!) Hakuba Iwatake: 30-40cm Hakuba 47: 20-40cm Hakuba Goryu: 10-30cm Hakuba Happo-one: 20cm Check out Hakuba Cortina. WOO-HOO!! I know where I want to be this morning. Some of the official snow depth numbers have taken a big jump this morning too, notably Tsugaike which has added close to 1m to some of the numbers. With that set of numbers, you can get a pretty good idea that there's a very nice layer of fresh snow on the slopes this morning and I can indeed report 32cm of snow at base with snow still falling now too. All good. Well, perhaps apart from windy conditions - which are affecting some lifts. Tsugaike and Happo-one seem to be the worst affected at the start of the day. If you plan to get out today, best to check with the resorts. I have updated info as I have it below. Snowfall is expected to continue through today and tomorrow. Perhaps a break at the weekend before more snow into the new year. Things are looking good. Take care out there. Danger as well as endless fun awaits. Let's not forget that. Hakuba Happo-one Operating lifts: - Most lifts (apart from a few lower lifts) are generally operating - But many on hold this morning due to weather conditions Courses open: - All course are now open - Only the Kurobishi Off-Piste Area remains closed Official snow depth: - Kurobishi: 215cm - Usagidaira: 160cm - Lower: 60cm Hakuba Goryu Operating lifts: - All lifts apart from Alps Number 2 & 4 are operating - Scheduled to be open for nighta until 9:30pm, daily in the Toomi area Courses open: - All courses apart from Cosmo River, Straight Whisky, Snow Diving and Adventure are open Official snow depth: - Top: 235cm - Toomi: 80cm - Iimori: 60cm Hakuba 47 Operating lifts: - All lifts apart from Line D are operating Courses open: - All main courses are open - The Tree Riding Zone is now open (Gate 3 closed) Official snow depth: - Top: 210cm - Base: 70cm Tsugaike Kogen Operating lifts: - Most lifts are now operating for the season - However, weather conditions affecting a number of lifts including the Gondola this morning Courses open: - All courses areas apart from Kane-no-naru-oka 2 are open Official snow depth: - Tsuga-no-mori: 250cm - Han-no-ki: 240cm - Maruyama: 90cm - Shirakaba: 150cm - Oya-no-hara: 130cm - Kane-no-naru-oka: 90cm Hakuba Cortina Operating lifts: - All lifts apart from Number 5 are operating Courses open: - Ikenota - Ikenota Forest - Hieda Forest - Mt Hieda 1 - Mt Hieda 2 - Mt Hieda 3 - Itadaira - Ipponmatsu - Rabbit - Snake - Kamoshika Official snow depth: - Top: 200-230cm - Base: 130-150cm Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field Operating lifts: - Most lifts are now operating for the season, though some affected by weather conditions this morning Courses open: - View C - View D - East - South - Gezan (part) - Sunny Valley (part) - Paradise (part) - by1 - by2 - by3 Official snow depth: - Top: 140cm - Base: 60cm Hakuba Norikura Onsen Operating lifts: - All lifts apart from Alps Number 7 and Alps Number 10 are operating Official snow depth: - 80cm Hakuba Valley Kashimayari Operating lifts: - Number 2, 3, 6 and 7 lifts are operating Official snow depth: - 80cm Hakuba Sanosaka Operating lifts: - All three lifts are operating Official snow depth: - 80cm Hakuba Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 179cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 18 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 32cm (27th December) November 2017 snowfall 47cm reported on 5 days December 2017 snowfall 132cm reported on 13 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 Hakuba. 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 Yuzawa & Minamiuonuma region of Niigata New snowfall at base 54cm Snowfall at base this season 214cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Yuzawa Now report can be found here . Excellent news this morning. Heavy snow (and wind) overnight and as of 8:30am I am measuring 54cm of fresh snowfall. That's Yuzawa-style snowfall! Here is what resorts are officially reporting (very probably 'under-reporting'): Kagura - 40cm Kagura Mitsumata - 20cm (!) Kagura Tashiro - 40cm ...though no increases in official snow depths (!!) Naeba - 20-30cm Maiko Snow Resort - more than 50cm Interesting to see some official snow depths staying where they are and some taking big jumps. As we have said before, once we have the base it's the fresh snow that is the most interesting number. Some lifts appear to be affected by the conditions this morning - either closed (Tashiro area, Maiko gondola) or possibly delayed as staff cope with the heavy snow. The individual resort info below is updated as much as we can each morning. It is continuing to snow now with more expected through today and tomorrow. Hopefully it will continue to pile up and bring us some deep conditions out there - and everywhere. Perfect for the New Year period. With some more snow, we should very soon be at a stage where everywhere is open as normal. Obviously with the snow and wind visibility is reduced and it feels cold out. Wrap up well and take care if you brave these conditions. --- Ski resorts in Yuzawa: GALA Yuzawa GALA Yuzawa is open with 6 lifts operating and 8 courses (Central and Northern Areas) open. The sledding area is also open. - 120cm Iwappara - Iwappara is open with the central and upper area available (4 lifts and 11 courses). Nighta until 8pm. - 130cm Kagura Almost all of Kagura is open. Tashiro Ropeway and area closed today. Mitsumata open up to Kagura Number 1 Romance lift. The Dragondola connecting Kagura with Naeba is now operating. The top Kagura Number 5 lift should be open from 1st January. - Kagura area: 180cm - Mitsumata area: 120cm - Tashiro area: 140cm Kandatsu Kogen Kandatsu Kogen is mostly open. - 90cm Naeba Most of Naeba is now open. The Dragondola connecting Naeba with Kagura is now operating. - Base: 100cm NASPA Ski Garden - NASPA Ski Garden is open with all lifts operating and all the main courses available. The Mogul and Slopestyle areas are not yet available. - 150cm Yuzawa Kogen Yuzawa Kogen is open with all lifts operating and courses open. - Top: 130cm - Base: 70cm Yuzawa Park Yuzawa Park is now open with all lifts operating - 110cm Yuzawa Nakazato Yuzawa Nakazato is part open with six lifts operating. - 80cm --- Ski resorts in Minamiuonuma (just to the north of Yuzawa): Ishiuchi Maruyama Ishiuchi Maruyama is open. - 110cm Joetsu Kokusai Joetsu Kokusai is open with 19 courses available. - 120cm Maiko Snow Resort All three of the main areas of Maiko Snow Resort are (at least part) open. Gondola on hold this morning due to strong winds. Nighta operations are scheduled to begin from 28th December. - Top: 160cm - Base: 80cm Muikamachi Hakkaisan Most of Hakkaisan is now open. - 150cm Yuzawa Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 214cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 15 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 54cm (14th and 27th December) November 2017 snowfall 14cm reported on 3 days December 2017 snowfall 200cm reported on 12 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 Yuzawa. 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 495cm Posted on Tuesday 26th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I promised better news this morning. And yes, sort of because it has got much colder once again and we do have some fresh snow. My number is 13cm but wind was a big factor yesterday so it's may well be wildly different in places. I suspect much more than that actually fell, but I record from the same place every day, so... So yes, pretty intense weather since my last report. From around mid-morning things started getting a bit wild with snow and very strong winds blowing things about. There may have even been some flying cows. I think I made the right choice in staying in, eating and drinking. I am having trouble accessing official information this morning, but expect lift disruptions today too. If you do decide to venture out, take extra care. These are not friendly conditions. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5.00am: -10°, 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m : -12.4°, W15.5m/s, 200cm snowdrift. Annupuri 1150m: -13.5°, W25m/s, major snowdrift development on eastern side slopes, 30cm new snow. Hirafu 1250m: 16°, strong wind, snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW25m/s. Kamui Cape: WSW21m/s, 997hPa, wave 7.5m. Currently there is a high pressure to west and massive low pressure 943hPa in the Sea of Okhotsk, bringing strong winds that are savaging the mountains and the sea. A W30m/s blizzard continues blowing above 1000m and 7m swell on the ocean. Survey at 800m shows rapid snow drift development, drifts are unstable and more than 3m in some locations. Blade test instantly fractured, propagating over long distance. Snowdrift development continues. Avalanche risk is extremely high. It is yet to be decided if top lifts will run. All gates will be closed. Steeps slopes at Nitonupuri, Iwaonupuri, Mikaeri Bowl, Kozan no Sawa, lower Osawa and Higashi One there is high possibility of over 100cm deep surface avalanches over wide areas. Best not to go backcountry today. Onsen or a Sushi resturant is a better plan. Roads are dangerous too, so be careful driving. The weather and snow will soon get better. This low pressure is the biggest on the Pacific at the moment. Accidents can easily happen in bad weather. Take precaution --- Tuesday 26th December 2017 Resort specific information (operations subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu & Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts except Ace Number 4 and King Number 2 are operating ** Strong winds are affecting lifts at the start of the day - details unconfirmed Official snow depth: - Top: 270cm - Base: 110cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts are operating ** Strong winds are affecting lifts at the start of the day - details unconfirmed Official snow depth: - Top: 210cm - Base: 160cm Niseko Village Lifts scheduled to be operating: - All lifts except Country Road Chair are operating ** Strong winds are affecting lifts at the start of the day - details unconfirmed Official snow depth: - Top: 220cm - Base: 170cm --- Floodlit 'nighta' skiing: Night skiing is planned for every evening at the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas. There is no nighta at the Niseko HANAZONO area. Ski lifts that are scheduled to be operating for nighta are noted below (subject to change): * Niseko Grand Hirafu - Ace Family quad, Ace Number 2 quad, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 pair * Niseko Annupuri - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift * Niseko Village - Village Express, Upper Village Gondola, Community Chair, Banzai Chair Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Tuesday 26th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 495cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 34 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (21st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 18cm Snowfall at base this season 303cm Posted on Tuesday 26th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . Christmas day was warm and wet. Temperatures went up to +6c, and that combined with heavy rain saw the snow base around the village collapse and become a slush bath which caused a lot of vehicles to become bogged. Overnight, temperatures have returned to wintery norms. Yesterday's winds are still with us and are currently gusting moderately and are forecast to stick with us until at least tomorrow. It is likely the wind will affect some lift operations. The snow news is 18cm of fresh snow in the village which will help start to repair the damage to the snow base cause by the warm temperatures yesterday. Light to moderate snow is expected to fall continuously for the next few days. Take it easy out there today. Conditions will be varied with icy patches under wind blown new snow. Ungroomed areas will be very rough under the new layer of snow. Kitanomine Zone open Furano Zone open Furano Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Tuesday 26th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 303cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 32 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 28cm (5th December) November 2017 snowfall 125cm reported on 13 days December 2017 snowfall 178cm 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 Furano. 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