Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 318cm Posted on Sunday 3rd January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Sorry, I don't have that 20cm to report to you, as it's another modest delivery of 5cm this morning since my last report. Still, 5cm is better than 0cm. And Hokkaido regions do seem to be doing considerably better than many regions of Honshu this winter so far. It doesn't make me happy to hear of other regions struggling with snow - we all know what it's like and the more snow the better in all Japan if you ask me. Here's hoping that we all get our fair share for the remainder of the (long) season! Anyway back to the details. Yesterday felt a bit odd in some ways. At times it was snowing quite heavily though it remained relatively mild and so the snow falling was not top quality and somewhat wetter than we are used to. There are no major wind issues this morning affecting lifts with them all moving as planned early on. It's currently cloudy and overcast with the earlier snow now eased off, and it might just end up being a generally cloudy day and not too cold again. Having said that, it should stay just below zero through the day. We are expecting the snow to return overnight tonight and the forecast still has snow at times every day through until at least the end of the week. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -3℃, no snowfall and calm. Moiwa 800m: -5℃, W8m/s, no snowfall and light development of wind snowdrifts. 1000m: W10m/s, Annupuri 1150m: W12m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW12m/s, Kamui cape W11m/s, 1012hPa, 2.2m waves. Although no snow-clouds can be observed over the Sea of Japan, a moderate westerly wind is persisting in higher elevation. New snowfall is almost non-existent, but the wind has moderately reset the slopes around 800m. Sasa-bamboo and bushes are still thick below 500m, making route finding difficult. Gates 4, 5, 6 and 10 will open. Gate 11, Mizuno no sawa, is scheduled to open tomorrow. Please follow the patrol’s instructions. Do not enter strictly off-limits areas (Haru no taki & Yu no sawa) to seek fresh tracks or duck any ropes to step out of bounds. The freedom to ride the out of bounds area in Niseko can only be maintained by having everyone respect the Rules. There’s been many reports of inbounds collision injuries. Always keep an eye around you and ride within your limits. Your safety is our number one concern. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Sunday 3rd January 2016: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 240cm Base - 100cm Niseko Village: Top - 185cm Base - 100cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 130cm Base - 100cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Sunday 3rd January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 318cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 24 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 328cm Posted on Tuesday 5th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Greetings from Niseko and this morning I have 10cm of fresh snow to report from my base here in Hirafu. I have been talking about 'lots of snowfall on the forecast over the next week' for a few days now I recall, but so far over the last few days it has been somewhat modest deliveries rather than blizzard snowstorms depositing huge amounts of deep. Still, we'll happily take it. The updated forecast still has regular snowfall on it right through until at least the end of the weekend. Just how much snow actually falls I suppose we will have to just wait and see. As well as regular snowfall, it's also very likely to keep cold and maybe some stronger winds at times. Oh yes, talking about those strong winds. They're here this morning and stopping some lifts from moving - the situation at the time of writing has been added below. Fingers crossed the affected lifts will be able to start during the day. Wind is expected to get less later on but still might cause problems. Check with the resorts. Other than that, it is continuing to snow lightly again this morning and mostly rather grey and cloudy, current temperature of -5C. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: There is no Niseko Avalanche bulletin today. Please seek further information from the ski patrols before stepping out of the gates. There are many risks involved in out of bounds riding. Avalanches, hitting trees, falling in creeks, sudden changes of weather, suffocation and loosing way are some of them. The out of bounds area is outside the ski resort’s management. You are self-responsible for all your actions. Be prepared and be prudent. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Tuesday 5th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 328cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 25 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 23cm reported on 4 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 1cm Snowfall at base this season 536cm Posted on Wednesday 20th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Hirafu where there's just 1cm of new snowfall to report to you this morning. We were expecting and hoping for more, but shall try to not be too greedy. Yesterday wind messed around with top lifts, with the Niseko Annupuri resort only ending up opening up late morning with the Jumbo 1, 2 and 3 lifts eventually moving by noon. Other top lifts were affected through the day as well. So how will today turn out? Unfortunately it looks like there's going to be less lifts open than yesterday at the beginning of the day. The Niseko Annupuri lifts will all be closed again due to the strong winds up to 20m/s over there on their upper slopes, and it's lower lifts only at Niseko Village and Niseko Grand Hirafu. The two lower quads at Hanazono are set to be both operating, but the top lift won't be. It's not the best of news for today and somewhat challenging conditions if you decide to get out there. It doesn't feel particularly cold down here in the village but with the wind conditions I would think it will feel mighty cold if you get on the lifts. Snow is forecast for the day today though and with less wind likely (hopefully!), conditions should be good tomorrow morning. --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu Just lower lifts open at the start of the day - Ace Family, Ace Number 1, King Number 1 and Holiday Number 1 pair. Gondola and other lifts not operating. Niseko HANAZONO Resort The Hanazono 1 and 2 lifts are operating, but the top Hanazono Number 3 lift is not starting the day. Niseko Village The lower Community, Banzai and Morino lifts plan to start the day but the Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland Chair not operating. Niseko Annupuri All lifts not operating at the start of the day due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -4℃, strong northerly wind, light snowfall with snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -10℃, E15m/s, no snowfall but large development of snowdrifts. Mikaeri 740m: -6.7℃, W9m/s, development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -8℃, NW20-27m/s. Hirafu 1000m: -13℃, strong NE wind with large development of snowdrifts. Benkei cape: ENE17m/s, Kamui cape: E6m/s, 1003hPa, 5.5m waves. Although new snowfall is scarce, the strong easterly wind has developed new snowdrifts all around the mountain. SW facing slopes of the valleys are covered with wind-packed snowdrifts forming unstable slabs. The wind is forecasted to shift west and the snowfall will also pick up as it does. The avalanche risk in steep slopes, knolls, under lifts and under cornices above 600m elevation is high. Gates 1 & 5 as well as all peak gates will be shut. Refrain from ducking ropes. Avalanche accidents mostly occur during and just after storms. Going to an onsen and relax until the storm calms down is recommended for today. The visibility is poor on and off the mountain, pleaser be careful on the road and drive safe. If your car happen to get stuck in a blizzard, it is best to turn the engine off and wait for rescue. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Wednesday 20th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 300cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 260cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 230cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Wednesday 20th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 536cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 39 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 231cm 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 14cm Snowfall at base this season 550cm Posted on Thursday 21st January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Yesterday the Niseko Annupuri resort area did actually manage to get their Jumbo Number 1 quad operating late on in the afternoon, but it was generally a day of strong winds and lots of lift disruptions unfortunately. Today will hopefully be much better in that respect... There's a new 14cm of fresh snowfall to report to you this morning. The other good news is that there is much less wind around this morning (always good to hear that), or there certainly seems less down here in the village. I note that the Avalanche Report is saying there's still some strong winds above 800m, but it looks like the lifts at all four resort areas are going to be opening as planned this morning. Fingers crossed it stays that way. (Update since I started making this report: It seems the opening of the top lifts at Hirafu is questionable... doh!) It is just cloudy at the moment but snow could be falling any time as those clouds are still hanging around and due to be with us into the weekend. It does look like any deliveries of snow we get will be more modest than heavy snow, and there's a chance of some clearer skies as well particularly on Saturday. Anyway keep an eye on the weather forecast (link below) for all of that. --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu Top Ace Number 4, King Number 4 and King Number 3 lifts may not be opening as planned. Niseko HANAZONO Resort It seems Niseko Hanazono is opening as normal. Niseko Village Niseko Gondola and Wonderland chair may be late getting going due to some early morning maintenance and checks (or something). Niseko Annupuri It seems Niseko Annupuri is opening as normal. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -5℃, 10cm snowfall, small development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: W10m/s, 20cm snowfall and snowdrifts development. Mikaeri 740m: -7.6℃, W7.1m/s, 50cm new snow and development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -11℃, NW10m/s, 50cm snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -12℃, no snowfall but snowdrifts development. Benkei cape: N11m/s, Kamui cape: N11m/s, 1014hPa, 3.2m waves. The wind remains strong above 800m elevation and snowdrifts are continuing to develop. 80cm thick slabs are present and growing in knoll terrain above 800m elevation. The avalanche risk is high this morning, especially in upper parts, knolls and cornice slopes with heavy load of wind-affected snowdrifts. Peak gates opening is still undecided, please respect the patrol’s decision. Many of the accidents occur during and just after storms. Avalanches are natural phenomena; in Niseko, most of them are caused by collapsing unstable snowdrifts. Do not drop into snowdrift loaded slopes. Accidents can be averted by avoiding hazardous slopes. The snow in the trees is a bit shallow but in good shape, beware of tomahawking into hidden pockets of heavy snowdrifts. Avalanche mechanism related experiments are in operation around the Mikaeri cat track, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. --- Official resort snow depths as of Thursday 21st January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 300cm Base - 120cm Niseko Village Top - 270cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 240cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 21st January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 550cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 40 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 245cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 535cm Posted on Tuesday 19th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here The day started off seemingly fairly calm yesterday morning, but unfortunately by mid morning there were some lift disruptions due to windy conditions. First to be stopped was the top King Number 3 at Niseko Grand Hirafu as early as 9am, and then by 10:30am all of the top lifts at each of the four resort areas were not moving, with the Annupuri Gondola and Jumbo Number 3 lifts also finishing their day by early afternoon. I have just 3cm of new snowfall to report to you this morning since yesterday. It is not as cold as it has been this morning but there are windy conditions on mountain from the start of the day. Niseko Annupuri are reporting northerly winds of up to 19m/s on their upper slopes. From the start of the day the top lifts at all areas but Hanazono are waiting on conditions and the peak gates will be closed. As mentioned in the Avalanche Report this morning we should expect conditions to be somewhat different from the last few days with the wind blowing the snow around and snowdrifts. Extra care is needed. We can probably expect a similar picture tomorrow morning as well by the way. This storm is so far bringing us here in Niseko less snow and just strong wind - where's the fun in that? - but it is great to see that lots of other ski resort areas of Japan have been getting some decent snow. Those scenes looked more like the usual scenes we see each winter, rather than all this talk of lack of snow. Let's hope that it continues. Oh yes, and more snow up here too please. I know, I'm greedy. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -5℃, light snowfall. Moiwa 800m: -6℃, E10m/s, snowdrifts development. Mikaeri 740m: -5.5℃, NW12.1m/s, large snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: E23m/s. Hirafu 1000m: -6℃, NE10m/s, snowdrifts development. Benkei cape: ESE7m/s, Kamui cape ESE4m/s, 998hPa, 1.9m waves. The mountain base is relatively calm. Snowfall is scarce but a strong easterly wind is blowing above 800m, drifting snow and growing packed snowdrifts. Cornices and snowdrifts in knolls will drastically develop as the day goes by and the avalanche risk will rise accordingly. Be careful as heavy snowdrifts are also present inbounds. Snowdrifts growth depends on the windspeed; the stronger the wind, the faster they grow, and fast growing snowdrifts are the most unstable, easily collapsing with the slightest stimulations, triggering larger avalanches as they slide. Today’s snow is totally different from yesterday’s. Be prudent and plan according to the conditions. Peak gates will be closed today. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions and do not duck ropes to step out of bounds. The snow will be better soon. --- Official resort snow depths as of Tuesday 19th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 340cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 260cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 230cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Tuesday 19th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 535cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 38 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 230cm 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 1cm Snowfall at base this season 593cm Posted on Thursday 28th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a little bit of fresh snow at base since my last report, 1cm of it in fact. Wind caused some problems with lifts once again yesterday - early afternoon with the Gondola and two top lifts at Annupuri coming to a halt as well as the Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland lift at Niseko Village and the two top lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu. Just leave us alone wind, ok?! That's what I said yesterday, but it doesn't seem to be listening for now as at the start of the day top lifts at Hirafu, Village and Annupuri are at a standstill, as noted below. This morning light snow is falling and visibility seems fairly decent. The forecast is still telling us of regular snowfall on and off through the coming week, maybe more around Sunday than other days. ...and hopefully less wind! Naughty wind. --- Just a few more days left in January and so far for this month I have observed 288cm of snowfall here at base. 31cm more than January last year. The running total for the season so far is 596cm; at the end of January last year the running total for the season so far was 806cm. So we're currently just over 2m of snow behind where we were last season. One interesting thing is that if you look at the numbers you'll see that last season the snowfall was somewhat front-loaded with the most falling in December and then less each month from then on. Let's hope for a bumper February. I'll look back over the statistics once again once we get into February. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -5°C, trace new snow, minor snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -10°C, W8m/s, trace new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -8°C, SW3.7m/s, Annupuri 1150m: -11°C, W10m/s, poor visibility. Hirafu ridge line -12°C, W18m/s. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW15m/s. Kamui Cape WSW12m/s, 1020hPa, wave 2.1m. A steep atmospheric pressure gradient is producing a westerly wind 10-18m/s above 1000m. Although only a trace of snow has fallen, due to the strong wind there has been significant cornice and snowdrift development above 900m. Groomed runs higher on the mountain are hard. From observation Kozan no sawa(backbowl) side wall 1000m and Osawa SE side 1000-1100m, Higashi One (east ridge)1000m cornice slopes, the avalanche risk is high, surface slabs fracturing at about 50cm depth. Do not duck ropes to enter these areas. Gates 2,3 will be closed. Until the current weather system changes please be patient. Below 1000m don't carelessly ride open steep slopes, cornices, knoll terrain, you may have an accident. The snow in the trees is reset. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Thursday 28th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 320cm Base - 135cm Niseko Village Top - 270cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 260cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 28th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 593cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 44 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 288cm 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 599cm Posted on Friday 29th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning. It has been snowing lightly again here this morning though as I look outside the window it seems to have stopped for the moment. It's actually quite bright looking up towards the mountain... might it even clear up a bit today? Anyway, there's 6cm of fresh new snowfall here near base since my last report. It does feel colder out there this morning and the resorts are indeed reporting lower temperatures than yesterday and with the wind it'll probably feel very cold. Wind unfortunately continues to affect us I'm afraid. As of 8:30am, it looks like again we are going to be starting the day with top lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri not able to open as planned, though it's just the top lifts right now with all of the Gondolas operating. Please see the info below for the situation as it is right now. Snow is still expected on and off over the coming week, but tomorrow might well start off with some sunshine. Again, if the forecasts are correct I wouldn't expect heavy snow (best chance of decent snow looks like Sunday night) but rather modest amounts. It should be keeping cold through as we venture into February. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -8°C, 3cm new snow, calm. Moiwa 800m: -12°C, NNW10m/s, 15cm new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -11.6°C, SW1.0m/s, 25cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -15°C, NW20m/s, cornice and snowdrift development. Hirafu ridge line -15°C, strong wind, snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NNW14m/s. Kamui Cape WNW10m/s, 1026hPa, wave 2.1m. A strong westerly wind above 1100m from the high pressure system to the west is producing rapid cornice and snow drift development on leeward slopes. Osawa cornice slope 1000m, Kozan no sawa (backbowl) sidewall, Higashi One(east ridge) cornice slope and other steep leeward slopes the avalanche risk extremely high. Gates 2,3 will be closed. Gates 1,5,6 yet to be decided. Listen to the patrols advice. From observation leeward slopes below 800m are starting to stabilize, although cornice and knoll areas are still easily fracturing by ski stimulation. Do not enter these areas carelessly. When the atmospheric pressure gradient flattens out the wind will drop and slabs will stabilize. Don't over estimate your skills or knowledge, make prudent safe decisions. This information is issued to aid in accident prevention. Your freedom to ride out of bounds will be protected if you follow the Niseko Rules. Be careful of frostbite. Use caution to avoid accidents. --- Official resort snow depths as of Friday 29th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 320cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 270cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 270cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Friday 29th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 599cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 45 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 294cm 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 4cm Snowfall at base this season 729cm Posted on Monday 15th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is a better morning here in Niseko - a hearty welcome back to colder conditions and snow. I'm certainly glad that nasty weekend is over, I can tell you. Hopefully all thoughts of those silly warm conditions and even sillier rain are out of the system for the moment and we can all get back to some winter. Strong winds are still with us though and almost certainly going to be playing naughty with the lifts this morning - details as they are at 8:30am added below. Probably best to keep an eye on that information if you are planning on venturing out. It's definitely colder this morning and there is some fresh snow on the ground - slightly over 4cm here at my base - but that of course won't be enough to cover the damage done from the weather over the weekend... we need a decent amount of fresh snow for that. It was snowing just before but as I prepare this report there's actually a bit of sun peeking through the clouds and some blue sky to be seen in places as well. Hopefully that's just a temporary thing as we are actually forecast snow for the day. This week is looking promising and we will very probably get back to the regular daily snowfall that we all like to see so conditions should be gradually improving once again. Wind is also probably going to be something that I have to mention every day as well, but maybe we'll just have to put up with that if we want to get that fresh snow. Conditions are not ideal - as always, be careful out there and remember the dangers as well as the fun. --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu The top Ace Number 4, King Number 4, Ace Number 3 and King Number 3 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko HANAZONO Resort The top Hanazono Number 3 lift is on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko Village The Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland Chair lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko Annupuri The Annupuri Gondola and top Jumbo Number 4 lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -6°C, 10cm crushed crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -10°C, SW15m/s, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -10.6°C, S6.8m/s, 50cm snowdrift development. Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: -10°C, W10m/s, trace new snow. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack depth 250cm. Annupuri 1150m: -14°C, NNW29m/s, Coastal data: Benkei Cape: WNW21m/s. Kamui Cape W15m/s, 998hPa, wave 3.3m. After the passing of low pressure system and the steepening atmospheric pressure gradient, the mountains and seas are experiencing severe weather. Although only a small amount of new snow has fallen, leeward snowdrifts formed over yesterday's refrozen, rain effected snow will collapse easily. Wind and snowdrift development is expected to continue, increasing avalanche risk to high today. All peak gates will be closed. Although lower elevation lifts will be running today, avoid cornice slopes looking for fresh snow. From observation and data, there is a high possibility of very deep surface slab avalanches on steep slopes where deep snowdrifts have formed. Most accidents happen during storms on leeward slopes, Take care, even riding in the trees the snow is rough and tricky. Conditions should improve tomorrow. The weather is bad, make cautious decisions today. --- Official resort snow depths as of Monday 15th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 300cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 310cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 320cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Monday 15th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 729cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 57 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 121cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 744cm Posted on Tuesday 16th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Niseko and it's a much improved picture this morning. There's 15cm of fresh snow to report this morning and with 20-30cm being reported in the Avalanche Report on mountain, I would expect a decent reset for this morning. I think I might just have to go and find out for myself. Looks like gates are going to be closed though. The overnight snow brings my observed snowfall number here at base for the month of February up to 136cm. Remember, last February it was 196cm for the month. If the forecast is correct and we can expect steady (and sometimes heavy) snowfall on most if not all days over the coming week, we should be well placed to do better than last year. Not that it's a competition or anything of course, just a bit of fun. And of course the more snow the better, not just when you think about daily refreshes but also when you start thinking about the spring season. So anyway it's snowing - and quite heavily just at this moment (though I see less so over at Hanazono from the webcam). But snow is forecast for the day and through the day tomorrow as well. We'll have to see how the winds shape up and if they are strong enough to affect lift operations again today - latest just before posting this report added below. Have a fine morning. --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu The top Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds and poor visibility. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Hanazono appears to be opening as planned at the start of the day. Niseko Village The top Wonderland Chair lift is on hold at the start of the day. Niseko Annupuri Niseko Annupuri appears to be opening as planned at the start of the day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -10°C, 20cm new snow, light winds. Moiwa 800m: W12m/s, 25cm new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -13.1°C, SSW2.4m/s, 30cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: -16°C, Strong westerly wind. Annupuri 1150m: -16°C, WNW15m/s, poor visibility, snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NW17m/s. Kamui Cape W11m/s, 1005hPa, wave 2.4m. At elevations above 800m wind slab development continues and although the storm is weakening, the upper 30cm of newly formed slabs is easily fractured. Kozan no Sawa, Osawa, Mikaeri Bowl and Higashi One cornice face, if a fracture propagates down to the Feb14 layer low pressure snow layer there is possibility of large avalanche with very deep crown. Gates 1,2, 3,4 will be closed. 5 and 6 yet to be determined. Please respect the patrols decisions. There are many people using the resort and it just takes one person to duck a rope and many others will follow, creating a serious safety issue for the patrol. This is how accidents happen. Don't make selfish decisions, don't duck ropes. The mountain is reset and snow in the trees is great. Today, at Mikaeri ridge road we will be conducting avalanche tests, the road will be closed during this time. Take care with frostbite, have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Tuesday 16th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 310cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 320cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 330cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Tuesday 16th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 744cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 58 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 136cm 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 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 12cm Snowfall at base this season 712cm Posted on Monday 8th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and a very happy Chinese New Year to everyone who is celebrating it. I don't want to make a mistake with the words I use, and so please accept it in English! Unfortunately, the top lifts were affected by wind yesterday afternoon. Here's how the day played out around the mountain for those interested in knowing how these things play out: Niseko Annupuri - the top Jumbo number 4 lift stopped around 11:30am to be joined by the Gondola and Jumbo Number 3 lifts just before 2pm leaving us with just the lower two lifts operating. Niseko Village - the top Wonderland lift was halted just after 11:30am and then the Gondola operating at reduced speeds to be stopped at around 3pm. Niseko Grand Hirafu - the top King Number 4 and Ace Number 4 lifts stopped moving around noon with the King Number 3 lift also stopped mid afternoon. As far as I can tell, all of the three Hanazono lifts made it through the day, even if the top one was moving at reduced speeds. And so much for the 'possible clearing up' mentioned in my report as well - a few moments of some blue sky here and there, but generally cloudy and snowy - and really snowing heavily at times. So once again after some impressive snowfall, I have a good 12cm of fresh snowfall to report. What's more, as expected it's a really beautiful morning. The sun is out, there are beautiful blue skies all around and it seems fairly calm so I would expect everywhere to be opening as normal this morning. Fresh snow overnight and beautiful weather - I don't think I'll ever say it's perfect (after all, 30+cm of fresh would have been better!), but it's pretty ideal. I'm a big fan of the overnight snow followed by clear skies pattern so if you don't mind, I am going to treat myself to an early start this morning. I hope to see some of you out there. Have a great day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5am: -8℃, scarce snowfall, snowdrifts development and calm. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, W5m/s, 15cm snowfall with 50cm snowdrifts in knolls. Mikaeri 740m: -11.2℃, WSW0.9m/s, 20cm snowfall, 50cm snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, SW12m/s, 10cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Hirafu peak ridge: -12℃, 30cm snowfall, light snowdrifts on-piste. Benkei cape: NW6m/s, Kamui cape: NNW4m/s, 1017hPa, 1.7m waves. Beautiful calm morning in a high-pressure system. The snow & wind ceased late night and the newly formed slabs are stabilizing. Looking at observations and snowfall transitions, the avalanche risk in areas below 1000m is lowering, however highly wind-affected wide-open steep slopes loaded with snowdrifts above 1200m are still unstable and surface slab slides from Feb 7th layer are to be highly considered. All gates are scheduled to open from the morning. Stepping out of the gate is stepping out of the resort management. Many hazard are present out there, always be prudent. The snow in the trees is in good shape. Beware of falling in cracks or creeks. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Monday 8th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 355cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village Top - 310cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 315cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Monday 8th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 712cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 55 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 104cm reported on 8 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 38cm Snowfall at base this season 782cm Posted on Wednesday 17th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A very good morning to you from Niseko. And how about this... the most snow in one day so far this season! I can't say that I was expecting quite this much, but more than happy to see it out there on the ground - all 38cm of it! We enjoyed lots of heavy snowfall yesterday and through the night so that we are able to wake up to all this lovely fluffy snow outside this morning. Check out this bit of the Avalanche Report: "Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: couldn't access by grooming machine, -10°C, over 60cm new snow"! I think this is probably enough for more than a complete refresh (you reckon?) and we should be set for some very exciting fun this morning... if the winds don't cramp our style of course. And it looks like we might be ok on that front this morning. Rather than wind, it's probably 'moving snow' that might delay some lifts for a short time. There's more regular snowfall due through until Friday, maybe a short break for a bit as we enter the weekend but back to snow from Sunday. Things are looking very good and re-assuring to see that the weekend was just a short blip on the big picture. Lots of snow is a whole lot of fun, but there's inherent dangers of course - keep calm and take care. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -6°C, 30cm new crystal snow, no snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -10°C, NW10m/s, 40cm new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -9.5°C, WNW1.4m/s. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NW14m/s. Kamui Cape W10m/s, 1005hPa, wave 1.4m. Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: couldn't access by grooming machine, -10°C, over 60cm new snow. Annupuri 1000m: -10°C, WNW15m/s, too much snow to run grooming machines on. Biggest snow event this winter and the grooming machines are having difficulty getting up and down the slopes. Atmospheric pressure gradient is a little steep and snow drifts are growing moderately above 800m. From observation and data, above 900m SE through SW cornice, knoll and other steep slopes, the avalanche risk is high. Upper Haru no Taki, Yu no Sawa Annupuri side there is possibility of huge avalanche, fracturing deep on Feb 14 layer. This avalanche report is produced using both historical and current observations and data, and past accident history. It has proved to be reasonably accurate since started and we ask that you don't disregard the information. Gates 1, 2, 3, 4 will be closed. Other gates yet to be determined. Please respect the patrols decisions. Don't venture out of bounds late in the afternoon. If you get lost you will be in big trouble. Snow is good but deep. Be prepared with snowshoes and skins. Don't go on any long expeditions today. Don't duck ropes and try to enter closed gate areas. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Wednesday 17th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 370cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village Top - 330cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 350cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Wednesday 17th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 782cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 59 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (17th February) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 174cm 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 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 725cm Posted on Wednesday 10th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Wind affected things yesterday and were noisy overnight too (glad to see I still have a roof on the top of my house, I thought it was going to come off at times) and unfortunately they're also preventing top lifts from starting the day today as well. The good news is that we have 12cm of fresh snow on the ground here near base. Watch out for the wind blowing it all around though, making for a less-and-more situation depending on where you are - that's apparent where I take my measurements each morning, but I think 12cm is a good reflection of the morning deposit. Keep that in mind and take care with your tracks and also please be aware of the avalanche risk as laid out below in the Avalanche Report. Care and calm heads needed in these conditions. The snow should be easing off later on in the day today and there's a chance of some sunshine tomorrow. I would try to avoid looking at the forecast for Saturday if you can, because rain and warmth is looking likely - it might well be a good day to plan some other kind of sightseeing. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5am: -5℃, 20cm broken crystal snowfall with development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: -8℃, 20cm snowfall, snowdrift development and collapsing cornices. Mikaeri 740m: -6.8℃, W8.2m/s. Hirafu Peak: -9℃, strong wind and large development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1000m: -8℃, intermittent snowfall with 20m/s gusts, large development of snowdrifts. Benkei cape: NNE14m/s, Kamui cape: N15m/s, 1009hPa, 3.8m wave height. A northerly wind picked up as the Low passed. Drastic development of snowdrift on top of yesterday’s graupel and broken crystal snow layer. These newly formed slabs easily transmit stimulation and collapsing lego-blocks like chunks of 50cm thickness has been observed this morning. Avalanche risk today is extreme. Gates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 will be closed. The wind would calm down and the lifts would start operating, but the hazard level will remain high a while after. Annupuri Osawa bowl, Mikaeri bowl, Higashi-One cornice slopes, Back bowl sidewalls are all time danger zone today. 50cm or bigger slab slides are to be expected. Do not duck ropes to head to those areas. Most accidents occur during and just after storms. Better stay inbounds today. A little heavy, wind-affected snow has blanketed the tree runs; overall good conditions. Beware of small but heavy enough slides occurring under steep lift lines. The snow conditions is ever-changing. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Wednesday 10th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 340cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 310cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 330cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Wednesday 10th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 725cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 56 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 117cm reported on 9 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