Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 790cm Posted on Thursday 18th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here An excellent day for enjoying the snow conditions yesterday even though there were a few lift disruptions due to wind by mid-day. There's another 8cm of snow to report to you this morning from here at Hirafu base. Happily things seem somewhat calmer this morning as well. There's less wind and it's not quite as cold. Regular but generally light snow is forecast over the next few days - looks like it's going to get slightly warm tomorrow and there's a chance that we might have to endure a bit of rain; but hopefully even if that happens it will be short-lived. More snowfall - and perhaps heavier snowfall - is expected around Saturday. And more snow into next week, so it looks like we should be able to enjoy regular fresh each morning. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -5°C, 5cm, calm. Moiwa 800m: -6°C, W8m/s, 15cm new snow. Mikaeri 740m: light wind. -6.9°C. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NW14m/s. Kamui Cape WSW11m/s, 1005hPa, wave 2.6m. Hirafu Peak ridge line: light wind, -7°C. Annupuri 1150m: -9°C, W12m/s, snow conditions heavy with huge cornice development, snowpack 260cm. The winds dropped around midnight and the rapid snowdrift development from yesterday has slowed. From observation and data avalanche risk around 800m is dropping, however at 1000m leeward cornice, knoll, open 30deg slopes high avalanche risk continues. Avalanche risk from rider stimulation or careless traverses is still high. The scale of predicted avalanches is over 60cm. Please take special care today. All peak gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrol and make proper preparations before entering out of bounds areas. These areas are not managed and can deliver a serious lesson very quickly. There is many people riding out of bounds, carelessly triggering an avalanche could take out many people below. Dont stop and wait in the gullies, this is the avalanche path. Snow is a little slow but good. The temperature is rising and snow will become heavy by lunchtime. Take care to not hit obstacles. Early yesterday a full depth avalanche occurred at 800m in Mizo no Sawa. Air temperature is not the only cause of these deep avalanches. Cracks give an indication of the instabilities, however in this instance the crack and collapse happened at the same time. This is not uncommon in Niseko area. Take care. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Thursday 18th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 360cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 350cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 18th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 790cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 60 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 182cm 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 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 805cm Posted on Sunday 21st February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning I have another 10cm of fresh snow to report to you. That's less than I think most of us were expecting given the forecasts yesterday, so we seem to have been missed out on that 'heavy snow' that we were being tempted with. Still, 10cm is certainly better than 0cm and there'll be more to play in up on the mountain. That new 10cm of snowfall though takes the total amount of observed snowfall this month (by myself) to be more than the amount I observed for the whole of the month of February last year. It also takes the total observed snowfall since the beginning of this season to over the 8m mark. With over a full week of February 2016 left to go and encouraging forecasts showing regular daily snowfall over the coming week, we could be on for a very good number this month (and eat away nicely at that now-just-less-than-2-metres gap on the numbers from last season at the end of February). Anyway back to today... It has been fairly mild and cloudy/overcast here at base so far this morning, with the temperature just above zero outside my place. It looks like snow is falling higher up - and snow is on the forecast on and off for the day today. Doesn't feel too windy down here early on but I see that Niseko Village are reporting northerly winds up to 16m/s and wind conditions are preventing some of the top lifts from opening this morning. --- It is extremely sad of course to hear about the skier passing away after hitting a tree yesterday. Do take care out there, and be sure to read the Avalanche Report below. --- 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. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Appears to be planning on being open as normal at the start of the day. Niseko Village The Niseko Gondola and Wonderland Chair lifts are on hold at the start of the day. Niseko Annupuri Appears to be planning on being open as normal at the start of the day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -2℃, 10cm snowfall, 40cm snowdrift. Moiwa 848m: -4.8℃, WSW14.2m/s, 20cm snowfall with large development of snowdrift. Benkei cape: NW7m/s, Kamui cape: SE3m/s, 1006hPa, wave height unknown. Hirafu peak ridge: -8℃, strong easterly gusts and developing snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -7℃, NE15m/s, 50cm and larger snowdrifts in various areas. A Low is rapidly passing along the pacific coast. Heavy stormy conditions in the mountains, generating drastic development of snowdrifts in leeward slopes above 800m elevation. The avalanche risk is very high. Prominent trigger layer is Feb 20th pre-low-pressure snowfall. Snowdrifts have reach 100+cm thickness in some areas, 50cm or thicker surface slide avalanches are to be highly considered in Annupuri O-sawa cornice area, Backbowl sidewalls 1000m area, west ridge area, Mikaeri bowl upper area. Peak gates will be closed, please do not cross boundary ropes. Many of the avalanche accidents occur when snowdrifts are developing exponentially. Better let the snow stabilize for a while after the wind calms down and lifts start running. Uneven snowdrifts are also present in the treeruns, trick conditions, be careful. A skier passed away hitting a tree in Higashi-One yesterday. It is very unfortunate and we would like express our deepest sympathy to the family. This information is issued not only to prevent avalanche accidents, but all incidents in the out of bounds area. Road conditions are also treacherous today, drive in controllable speed. --- Official resort snow depths as of Sunday 21st February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 350cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 350cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Sunday 21st February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 805cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 63 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 197cm reported on 16 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 791cm Posted on Friday 19th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's warmer this morning and noticeably so - the thermometer is showing just under +2C outside my place here as of 8am. There has been just a dusting of snowfall since my last report and until I started writing this report it is just snowing very lightly... since then and over the last 30 minutes it has started coming down with a bit more conviction and so I can officially assign 1cm to the report today. I was up on the mountain later on in the day yesterday and things were looking pretty tracked out, and so groomers aside things won't have changed this early morning. (We're back to that old 'we require regular snowfall' discussion!) Looks like early on top lifts are on hold but due to poor visibility rather than wind issues. So, snowfall is expected today but there's also a chance that we might get some rain or sleet during the day as well. Obviously we all hope to completely avoid that and it just be a forecast oddity. After today, the forecast is looking more exciting with decent and potentially heavy snowfall expected later Saturday through into Monday; it looks like there is a good chance for some more nice numbers to report to you. And report them I will! --- With 182cm of snow observed by myself here at base during this month, we're now just 14cm off the amount that I observed during the whole of the month of February last year. It looks like we are easily going to surpass last years number for February, and so at the same time start catching up on the season as a whole (we're still over 2m less than last season at the end of February). --- 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 poor visibility. Niseko HANAZONO Resort The top Hanazono Number 3 lift is on hold at the start of the day due to poor visibility. Niseko Village The top Wonderland lift is on hold at the start of the day. Niseko Annupuri The top Jumbo 4 lift is on hold at the start of the day due to poor visibility. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base6am: -2℃, no snowfall. Moiwa peak 838m: -4.5℃, ENE2.3m/s, no snowfall. Coastal data Benkei cape: WNW4m/s, Kamui cape SW12m/s, 1016hPa, 0.9m waves. Hirafu ridgeline: -7℃, no snowfall. Annupuri 1150: -6℃, W10m/s, no snowfall. Isobars are spaced out before the next Low approaches. The ocean and the mountains are in a calm condition. The general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates will open from the morning, but beware of sudden weather changes. According to observations, the snowpack at 800m elevation has 150cm of stable snow on top of Feb 14th layer and today’s layer will turn into a notable layer (Feb 19th) in the future snowpack. Do not play around the big cornices around 1000m elevation. Collapsing cornices can trigger a big surface slab slide. The mountain is mostly tracked out. The snow below 800m elevation has a soft crust layer and is catchy, easy to loose control. Beware of hitting trees and falling into creeks. Cracks are forming everywhere and are hard to notice from above. Be prudent when riding steep slopes. Surveillance of strictly off-limits areas are enforced. Ride carefully and have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Friday 19th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 345cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 350cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Friday 19th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 791cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 61 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 183cm reported on 14 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 811cm Posted on Monday 22nd February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and it feels nice and cold this morning. There's 6cm of snow outside my place this morning and so I would expect 10+cm out on the mountain this morning. Just cloudy at the moment and quite bright. Not much in terms of snow is expected today but it should be back tonight giving me more to report tomorrow morning. Unfortunately, wind is once again going to be an issue today. There were strong winds overnight and as we start the day top lifts are on hold at Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri - current status at the time of writing added below. Those of you who have followed my reports over the last few years will know just how much the winds annoy me... they affect top lifts on too many days in a season. (Not that I have a solution for a way round the problem...!) Regular snowfall is still lined up on the current 6-day forecast and it looks like temperatures should be dropping further again come mid-week. So if you are going to be here in Niseko this coming week, be prepared for snowy and cold conditions! Have fun; do take care out there. --- 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. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Currently the Number 1 lift is open but operating at reduced speed. Niseko Village The top Wonderland Chair lift is on hold at the start of the day due to strong wind. Gondola currently open but moving slowly. Niseko Annupuri The Annupuri Gondola, Jumbo Number 3 and Jumbo Number 4 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -6℃, 10cm snowfall. Moiwa 838m: -10.4℃, N4.7m/s, 20cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Benkei cape: NNW15m/s, Kamui cape: W12m/s, 1025hPa, wave height unknown. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -13℃, NE15m/s with development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -12℃, NW15m/s with snowdrift development. Intermittent snowfall under the winter pressure chart. Snow amount is small, however newly formed 40-50cm snowdrifts are developing in leeward knolls and under ridgelines above 800m elevation. Looking at observation and weather data, the snowdrifts are developing as we speak and are very unstable, easily collapsing from Feb 22nd layer with riding stimulation. Avalanche hazard level is high. Peak gates closure is undecided, please respect the patrol’s instructions. Bumpy Feb 21st layer is hiding shallow under the new snowpack, be careful not to fall and ride in controllable speed. Various hazards are lurking in the mountains. Better not overestimate your knowledge, experience, equipment and skills; always stay humble and prudent. Marginal conditions today, we strongly hope for everyone to stay safe out there. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Monday 22nd February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 811cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 64 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 203cm 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 4cm Snowfall at base this season 795cm Posted on Saturday 20th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. I have 4cm of fresh snow to report to you this morning from my base here in Hirafu. I was out of town yesterday but it sounds like fog and limited visibility were the headline of the day. Relatively mild again this morning, just slightly colder than this time yesterday here at base. The light westerly wind this morning isn't an issue and it seems that all of the lifts on the mountain should be open and operating as planned from the start of the day. It's a fine morning actually with some thin hazy cloud around and the sun shining through them at the moment. Things are set to change though soon with a drop in temperatures and heavy snowfall due tonight and into tomorrow, followed by regular snow through the coming week. That sounds good to me! I look forward to bringing you good snowy news tomorrow morning. In the meantime hope you have a fine Saturday. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -3℃, 5cm snowfall. Moiwa 838m: -6.6℃, SW3.2m/s, 20cm snowfall with snowdrift development. Benkei cape: NNW7m/s (18m/s @ 8pm), Kamui cape: W6m/s, 1026hPa, wave height unknown (SW14m/s, 1020hPa @ 9pm). Hirafu peak ridge: -9℃. Annupuri 1000m: -8℃, mild wind, 10cm snowfall, 260cm snowpack. A calm morning as the Low passed and the isobars spaced out. The wind peaked around 9pm last night, generated development of wet snowdrifts around 800m elevation, however have stabilized since then. Possibilities of avalanches from Feb 20th Low pressure snowfall layer is still to be considered around cornices, knolls and steep terrain above 900m elevation. Be alert. Peak gates will open from the morning, however may close anytime depending on the weather condition. Please respect the patrol’s decisions. The snow condition is better than it looks, slightly heavy & dense, typical Niseko snow. We strongly hope a safe day for all, please be mindful of your routes and always stay prudent in the mountains. Have a nice day. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Saturday 20th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 795cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 62 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 187cm reported on 15 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 12cm Snowfall at base this season 620cm Posted on Monday 1st February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning to you and this morning I have another 12cm of fresh snowfall overnight to report which makes for a decent start to February. The last day of January saw some nice blue skies in the morning with clouds moving in and then some fresh snow falling. Snowfall overnight is the kind I like best - fill in the tracks... reset the mountain... nice. (Just one thing, bring us 20+cm each night, ok?) Actually, I see that the Avalanche Report is reporting 20+cm on the mountain. So all is good. It is another very cold morning here, but I doubt that will put people off wanting to get up for early tracks and enjoy the conditions. Snow continues to fall and I expect visibility to be somewhat limited in places at the moment but once again the snow is expected to stop and leave us with a cloudy day; perhaps even a bit of blue sky again? The Hanazono webcam is showing hints of that just now... The Early Morning lift service at Niseko Grand Hirafu has now finished for the season. It sounds a bit odd thinking about things already finishing up for the season, but then we can remember that lifts and runs are scheduled to be open until early May. So like I mentioned yesterday, we have over 3 months to go! --- So here we are in February 2016 already and it's time for my monthly look back - and forward - to see where we stand this season. First of all, here are my observed snowfall numbers. As always, recorded here near Hirafu base: Observed snowfall during January 2016: 303cm Observed snowfall during January 2015: 257cm Observed snowfall during January 2014: 461cm Total observed snowfall for the 15/16 season up until end January 2016: 611cm Total observed snowfall for the 14/15 season up until end January 2015: 806cm Total observed snowfall for the 13/14 season up until end January 2014: 859cm So I observed nearly 50cm more snowfall during January 2016 than I did in January 2015, but it was still over 1.5m less than in January 2014. Looking at the season as a whole, we are still 2-2.5m behind the previous two seasons - the main reason this time round of course being the late/poor start to the season. How will February shape up? Here's what I observed last season and the one before: February 2015: 196cm February 2014: 178cm I always like to emphasise this so forgive me for repeating it. More snow falls higher up on the mountain than does here at base. The popular thinking is that there's probably up to/around 1.5 times the amount up there. It would of course be ideal to be able to report a number from there as well, but unfortunately it's just not possible to do that every morning... Let's also take a look at the official snowfall numbers that are published by the Japan Meteorological Agency. These numbers are taken from their point in Kutchan town which is a bit lower than here at Hirafu base, so you would expect them to be less than the snow that I observe myself. January 2016: 246cm January 2015: 230cm January 2014: 317cm January 2013: 268cm January 2012: 290cm January 2011: 420cm January 2010: 331cm January 2009: 286cm January 2008: 336cm 15/16 season so far at end of January 2016: 476cm 14/15 season so far at end of January 2015: 658cm 13/14 season so far at end of January 2014: 674cm 12/13 season so far at end of January 2013: 672cm 11/12 season so far at end of January 2012: 721cm 10/11 season so far at end of January 2011: 668cm 09/10 season so far at end of January 2010: 680cm 08/09 season so far at end of January 2009: 612cm 07/08 season so far at end of January 2009: 621cm It is a 'danto' (mild winter) season for most of Japan this time around. Lots of popular ski regions - mostly on the main island of Honshu - are this season getting much less snowfall than they usually enjoy. Take a look at the Yuzawa Now report today and tomorrow for some similar 'analysis' of what is going on down there. Last season the Yuzawa Now reports recorded over 13m of snowfall, which was actually over 1.5m more than I observed for these Niseko Now reports! Happily for us up here in Hokkaido, we have been doing well once the season got going and have enjoyed regular fresh snowfall for the most part. But still, for the season so far we also have been getting less snowfall than we usually get. Let's hope that February brings with it some good numbers - not just for here in Niseko, but for all of the ski resort regions of Japan. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -10°C, 20cm new snow. Moiwa 800m: NE8m/s, 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -12.9°C, WSW2.7m/s, 30cm new snow, snow drift development. Annupuri 1150m: -15°C, NW15m/s, 20cm new snow, snow drift development. Hirafu 1000m -16°C, 20cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW13m/s. Kamui Cape WNW6m/s, 1019hPa, wave 1.3m. Currently we under the influence of typical winter weather pattern. Light winds and snow continue, On upper sections of leeward slopes above 700m, there has been 40cm of snowdrift growth. Above 900m snowdrift growth has been faster, forming soft slabs likely to fracture on the Jan 30 layer. From observation and data, general avalanche risk is low, but risk can be higher depending on aspect and elevation. Avoid cornices and knolls. All gates are expected to be open. If you ignore Niseko Rules and enter Strictly Off Limits areas expect to be banned from all Niseko ski areas. For your own safety follow the rules. Once one person ducks the ropes, other follow, increasing risk of an accident. This cannot be tolerated. Snowfall is expected to continue. Take care falling into cracks when visibility is poor. It's cold today, beware frostbite. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Monday 1st February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 325cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 280cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 285cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Monday 1st February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 620cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 48 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 12cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 670cm Posted on Friday 5th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's another 10cm more fresh on the ground this morning, thank you very much! That makes my observed total 62cm in the 5 reports so far this month so the great start to the month continues. There is a lot of cloud around at the moment but good visibility and areas of blue sky also appearing. There's also more of a wind around this morning and strong westerly winds blowing around higher up according to the resorts (Annupuri reporting a blowy 22m/s) - unfortunately top lifts don't look like they are going to be starting the day as planned. Latest info at time of writing added below, let's hope it calms down. Some more snowfall is due overnight once again and at times tomorrow too; oh yes, and on Sunday too. If you are looking for some sunshine, Monday is still looking like it will be the main day for you. Hope you all have a very fine day. --- One rather angry person sent an email yesterday to the SnowJapan folk asking why 'the Niseko reporter is doing his best to get people to go to other areas'. Apparently, that's what he - for it was a he - took from my report yesterday morning. Huh?! No, I'm not 'doing my best to get people to go to other areas'. I'm also actually not 'doing my best to get people to come to Niseko' either.* I'm simply reporting honest conditions from here in Niseko and at times adding a bit of commentary (for want of a better word). I think lots of people will be interested in how the season is going not only here in Niseko but in Japan in general; and how this season may be different from other seasons... that kind of thing. I give the readers of these reports more credit than just being exclusively interested in Niseko and nothing else. I do want to perhaps add that I hope that my love of Niseko - and indeed Japan in general - also does come through in these reports. (But that's not me trying to sell anything to anyone). The person who sent that was probably the same type of person who would prefer that I don't talk about rain if it is raining**, and would prefer if I didn't talk about rubbish snow when the snow is rubbish***. --- * BOOK NOW! ** It never rains in Niseko in winter. *** Snow is never rubbish in Niseko. (Not even when it's rubbish). --- 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. Niseko HANAZONO Resort For the moment, open as planned. Niseko Village The top Wonderland lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko Annupuri The Gondola and top Jumbo 4 lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -5℃, 10cm snowfall, no snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -8℃, NW5m/s, 15cm snow with might snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -8.3℃, SW3m/s. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, W15m/s. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -11℃, 10cm snow and light development of snowdrift. Benkei cape: NW15m/s, Kamui cape: W14m/s, 1011hPa, 1.3m waves. A NW wind has picked up as the small Low passed, generating snowdrifts on top of Feb 4th pre-low pressure snowfall layer above 900m elevation, making the layer under Feb 4th transform into a hoar layer due to the temperature changes. Thin surface slab slides are to be expected in the Bckbowl sidewalls, below Osawa cornices, Mikaeri bowl and other leeside steep slopes. Peak gates are scheduled to open, please follow the patrol’s instructions. Be careful digging easy pits, they could trigger a slid. Remember to always belay yourself when pit-checking in knolls or steep slopes. The leeside aspects are pretty much reset but the snow is a bit heavy. Have you turned your beacon on?? Have nice day. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Friday 5th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 670cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 52 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 62cm reported on 5 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 685cm Posted on Saturday 6th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and the very fine start to the month continues this morning with another good 15cm of fresh snow and the good Avalanche folk reporting up to 30cm on mountain. That brings up my total observed snowfall in my last six reports to 77cm. Yey! And, it continues to snow at the time of writing - rather heavily at the moment too. Note: the snow itself isn't heavy! It's lovely and light. Sunshine is still looking likely for Monday. Before and after that though just expect snow to keep on falling. It's surely going to be a busy weekend here in Niseko, and so it's great that everyone will be able to enjoy fresh conditions each morning. There's lots of visitors here now and also arriving for the Chinese New Year celebrations. Enjoy your time here everyone! --- Yesterday was the opening day of the ever-popular Sapporo Snow Festival. This year it's the 67th time that this event is being held and it's going to be running until 11th February at the main Odori site in downtown Sapporo, and until 18th February at the Tsudome site. It's highly recommended, and no doubt already in the plans of a fair few of you reading this. Apparently about 2 million people visit each year! That's a lot of people. I haven't been myself yet but hope to get to see it in the next few days. I saw on the news last night that one of the snow sculpture attractions this year is of the new Shinkansen train that is going to be opening next month (the first time a Shinkansen bullet train line comes up to Hokkaido, initially to Hakodate). Looks like they have lots of images beaming onto the ice to make it almost like a cinema experience. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5am: -8℃, 20cm snowfall, calm. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, WSW5m/s, 30cm crystal snowfall. Mikaeri 740m: -10.2℃, light breeze, 30cm snowfall. Annupuri 1150m: W15m/s, 30cm snowfall with snowdrifts. Hirafu ridge line: -13℃, light wind, 15cm snowfall. Benkei cape: NNW14m/s, Kamui cape: WNW10m/s, 1011hPa, 1.2m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is small, but snow clouds are flowing in Niseko area, dropping 30cm of crystal snowflakes above 800m elevation. According to observations and weather transition, the development of snowdrifts is minor and the avalanche risk under 1000m elevation is low. However, 60cm surface slab slides are to be considered in area above 1100m elevation where relative strong westerly wind has been blowing, namely Annupuri’s Osawa cornice slopes and the Backbowl sidewalls. A slide triggered at the top of the slope, will clean everything on its way down, including people at the bottom of the valley. The snow is in really good shape, overhead blower condition in some areas. Beware of hitting trees and falling into cracks. Uncontrolled speed range can be very dangerous; do not overestimate the performance of the skis and boards. Many cases of people entering Haru no Taki strictly off-limits area from the Mizuno no Sawa area are being reported. It is very unfortunate to have a minority always disregarding the Rules wen most people are respecting it. We hope for a safe and enjoyable day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Saturday 6th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 355cm Base - 165cm Niseko Village Top - 300cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 310cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Saturday 6th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 685cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 53 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 77cm reported on 6 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 9cm Snowfall at base this season 660cm Posted on Thursday 4th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here After an excellent day on the slopes yesterday, do I have news of our 'daily refresh'? Yes I do! This morning I measure 9cm of fresh snowfall and it's still snowing. I have just wiped the area to reset it and start recording new snow for my report tomorrow. And there's going to be some to report as well - the snow clouds are going to remain over Niseko (or at least be very close by) through until the end of the weekend. Forecasts seem to show a break in the snow on Monday and some sunshine (Happy Chinese New Year!) but then more snow after that from Tuesday. We are certainly enjoying conditions at the moment, that's for sure. --- I have heard a few conversations over the last week or so from people who have decided at the last minute to come up to Hokkaido (and specifically Niseko or Furano) after originally booking places down in some popular resort areas on Honshu. It seems that they didn't like hearing about the relative lack of snow down there and at the same time hearing about the regular snowfall up here, and it's hard to argue with that. I must admit though it does seem a pretty stark contrast this season. As I have said before in these reports - and as the statistics show - such a big contrast isn't 'the norm' and I'm sure that lots of SnowJapan readers are interested in the bigger picture rather than just snapshots. It is interesting to read through the reports from, say, last season and look at some of the statistics here. I find it really interesting anyway. Whatever, it is certainly going to be interesting to see how the rest of the season shapes up, both up here in Niseko and in other regions. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -5℃, 10cm snowfall. Moiwa800m: -8℃, mild wind, 10cm snow. Mikaeri 740m: -7.3℃, calm, 15cm crystal snow. Annupuri 1150m: -9℃, W5m/s, 15cm snowfall, excellent groomer conditions. Hirafu 1150m: W10m/s, 15cm snowfall, no notable development of snowdrifts. Sea of Japan Benkei cape:W11m/s at 5am, Kamui cape: SW11m/s, 1016hPa, 1.1m waves. A small low-pressure system is present in western Sea of Japan, however the pressure gradient is small and the mountain is in a calm condition this morning. Light snowfall overnight without notable development of snowdrifts. The general avalanche risk is low. All gates are scheduled to open from the morning. Get information from the ski patrol and be well prepared before going out of the gates. Always be ready for sudden weather changes, especially in higher elevation. The snow condition is ever changing. Paying attention to the weather transition is key to evaluate the hazards. Accidents mostly occur during stormy weather. Stay humble, hone your senses and always be prudent. The Niseko community respects the freedom to ride, but is also deeply concerned about all user’s safety. The snow is in good condition. Be careful not to hit trees and not to fall in cracks. --- Official resort snow depths as of Thursday 4th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 350cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 290cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 300cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 4th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 660cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 51 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 52cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 700cm Posted on Sunday 7th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello to you all, and it is another very good morning here in Niseko. Another 15cm to add to the snowfall, bringing us to 92cm here at base since we entered February - that's almost half the total haul for the full month of February last season. Let's have a record breaking month! Yesterday seemed to pass without any drama other than the top King Number 4 lift at Grand Hirafu being closed for an hour or so early afternoon due to some kind 'mechanical failure'. Let's hope it's all open and smooth operations today. There's not much of a wind and so lifts are starting their journey for the day as planned, and the earlier snowfall has eased off. In fact, just as I write this the sun is shining through my window and I can see some patches of blue sky as well.. it may well just be a sneaky short blast because snow is actually still forecast for the day. Tomorrow lots of sun is still looking very likely to be making a special appearance. Getting to the lifts for early tracks is wholeheartedly recommended (just don't be too upset if you find quite a lot of other people are thinking the same!) I hope you have a great Sunday. I'm off out there to have some fun. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -10℃, 15cm of crushed crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, NW10m/s, 20cm snowfall with snowdrifts. Mikaeri 740m: -12.8℃, WSW4.1m/s, 20cm snow with developing snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -12℃, N10m/s, 15cm snowfall with snowdrifts developments. Hirafu peak ridge 4am: 16℃, light breeze and scarce snowfall. Benkei cape 5am: NNW11m/s, Kamui cape: W6m/s, 1013hPa, 1.3m waves. A westerly wind is forecasted to pick up later in the day, and will make snowdrifts develop in leeward slopes. According to morning observations, reports from patrols and cat operators, weather data and oceanic data, the avalanche risk in area below 1000m elevation is low this morning. All gates are scheduled to open. Listen to the patrol’s instructions and be prepared before you go out of bounds. We see some people doing pit-checks around the ski resort. Evaluating avalanche risk by observing layers is difficult in Niseko. Finding weak layers after accidents happened is too late. This information is released in hope to prevent accidents. Beware of falling into cracks, frostbites and sudden weather changes. Better not overestimate gears, skills and knowledge. Keep a scientific attitude and enjoy your day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Sunday 7th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 365cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village Top - 300cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 315cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Sunday 7th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 700cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 54 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 92cm reported on 7 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 600cm Posted on Saturday 30th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is a lovely morning here in Niseko. I think I said there was a chance of a sunny start to the day in the report yesterday. And so it is, big time! It is really very cold as well this morning, down into minus double digits here at base. But that won't stop people from wanting to get up out there as early as possible. With little wind to mess things about today (hurray!), all of the resorts are be planning on having all of the lifts moving as normal as normal - though just at the moment the Ace Number 2 Center Quad at Niseko Grand Hirafu seems to have a few early morning issues and is being delayed much to the dismay of the people lining up for it, who are currently being re-directed to the nearby Ace Number 1 lift. Let's hope they get that fixed quickly. Just 1cm of snow since yesterday so no deep fresh out there this morning but the weather should make up for that. The groomed runs all look very neat and tidy ready to be messed up! The clear blue skies might not last the day and it's forecast to be cloudy but we probably can't expect much snow before the end of tomorrow, so maybe that's our lot for January. It's going to be a busy one today. Take care and have fun. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -12°C, no new snow, calm. Moiwa 800m: -15°C, light winds, minor snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -13.4°C, W0.2m/s, Annupuri 1150m: -13°C, light winds, trace new snow. Hirafu 1000m -15°C, light winds, minor snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:S3m/s. Kamui Cape NE3m/s, 1023hPa, wave 1.1m. Under the influence of high pressure area, both the sea and mountains are calm. Following inspection of Higashi One area, peak gates 2,3 will be opened. Kozan no sawa (backbowl) sidewall, Osawa cornice 1100m, snowdrift stabilization is delayed and from observation surface slab fractures 40cm depth are likely to occur. Today there will be many mountain users, don't downplay the dangers on the mountain. Carelessly starting an avalanche could take out many people below you in the valleys. Snow in the forest is good, although take care with your route finding. Don't traverse cornice slopes or knolls just to get where you want to go. Niseko mountain management and the Avalanche Institute spend a lot of energy balancing providing a minimum level of safety and the freedom to ride out of bounds for all mountain users. If you are riding out of bounds there is a strong expectation on you to have consideration for the safety of other mountain users. Please listen to the patrols advice before exiting the gates. Have a great day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Saturday 30th 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 Saturday 30th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 600cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 46 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 295cm reported on 25 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 8cm Snowfall at base this season 608cm Posted on Sunday 31st January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Yesterday there was more cloud at the end of the day than the beginning, but generally a very fine day yesterday weather wise with a lot of people out enjoying it as well. Come the evening and it was snowing again, just how it should be! It looks like Grand Hirafu got their Ace Number 2 quad going eventually (about an hour late I hear), and hopefully there'll be no more problems there... looks like it is open as normal at 8:30am. I have measured 8cm of new snowfall this morning and with the resorts reporting around 15cm up top it's a reasonable refresh so conditions early on in particular should be very good. It's another cold morning, currently -9C degrees here at base and light snow was snowing just before but has stopped now. There's even some blue sky to be seen through some breaks in the cloud, quite a lot looking back over towards Mt Yotei, and the sun is starting to break through as well. More wind this morning than yesterday but as I write this report the lifts that should be moving are and there's no sign of disruptions to top lifts; and the peak gates are expected to be open. So here we are at the end of January 2015. Just over 3 months to go! Sounds good that, doesn't it. Either tomorrow or Tuesday I'll look back over the statistics for January and for the season so far and look forward to what we can hope for an expect for February. In the meantime, it's time for me to get some skiing in! --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -8°C, crystal snow, 15cm new snow. Moiwa 800m: -10°C, N5m/s, 20cm new snow. Mikaeri 740m: -12.0°C, W2.7m/s, Annupuri 1150m: -18°C, NW15m/s, 15cm new snow. Hirafu 1000m -10°C, 15cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW16m/s. Kamui Cape WNW8m/s, 1020hPa, wave 1.4m. Above 1000m on western aspects, NW wind around 15m/s continues, cornices and snowdrifts are slowly growing. All peak gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrols advice. You can still see yesterdays tracks but the snow in the forest is reset. From observation and data general avalanche risk is low, however caution is always advised. There is no guaranteed safety on the mountain. Cracks are starting to form in Mizu no Sawa, they are difficult to see from above. Don't be to over confident, new ski designs allow high speeds, but trees still hurt when you hit them. Be careful of holes. Yesterday over 1000 people went through the gates to ride out of bounds and we are thankful there was no big accidents. We appreciate everyone who respects Niseko Rules and ski safely on the mountain. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Sunday 31st January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 320cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 280cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 270cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Sunday 31st January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 608cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 47 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 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