Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 453cm Posted on Saturday 4th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another nice cold morning with another 15cm or so of new snowfall to report. It's not going to get much above -5 degrees here at base today, with temperatures down into minus double figures higher up. Go out prepared! And prepared for some excellent snow conditions as well. No doubt some people want to see clear skies and some views, but I think most people will be in Niseko primarily to experience those famous snow conditions. On that score, this weekend will definitely deliver. Having said that, there are signs that the clouds might clear a bit this morning and the sun might even try to make an guest appearance at today and tomorrow. Even so, the snow clouds probably won't be far away, if we are to believe the forecasts. All resort areas on the mountain seem to be open as planned this morning with the only exception being a late start for the Swinging Monkey lift at Hirafu due to some kind of maintenance. We're still in New Year mode in Japan, and it is still busy out there. Most Japanese go back to work early in the week and so it's back to something like normal from Monday. Peak season in Niseko though is never quiet! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, 10cm of crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: NW8m/s, 10cm of fresh, moderate development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW12m/s, -9C, 10cm of fresh, moderate development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: 10cm of fresh, moderate development of snowdrifts. Annupuri peak 1308m: NW11m/s, -14C. Wind forecast at noon: NW15m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW13m/s, Kaui cape WNW9m/s, 1.4m waves, 1007hPa. Isobars are spacing out and the wind is stagnating below NW15m/s. No drastic development of snwdrifts can be observed and the general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates are scheduled to open. Seek for ski patrol’s advice at the gate before stepping out of bounds. The resort is not managing the area outside the gates and avalanches can happen at any time in steep slopes, cornice slopes and knolls during winter. Beginners should not go or be taken to places like the Backbowl. The mountain condition is ever changing; hazard level and snow conditions change everyday. Although Niseko may be a gentle mountain, negligence could lead critical consequences. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 280cm Base - 125cm Niseko Village: Top - 195cm Base - 135cm Annupuri: Top - 155cm Base - 140cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 4th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 453cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 35 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 55cm 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 438cm Posted on Friday 3rd January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another 15cm of new snowfall to log into the records this morning at base here in Hirafu and it is still snowing. Yesterday it was mostly about the wind again. Niseko Village stopped the Gondola just after noon, the Hanazono Number 2 lift joined the Number 3, and the Ace 3 and Swinging Monkey lifts at Hirafu also ground to a halt early afternoon. If there's one thing I could change about Niseko, it would be the wind. Anyway! The very good news, apart from the continued snowfall, is that this morning it is much less windy it seems that all of the resort areas should be open as normal early on. There'll be some excellent conditions to score this morning. Snowfall is forecast to continue continuing into the weekend. Don't count on seeing the sun! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, 15cm of new snow. Moiwa 800m: -7C, 20cm of new snow, NW10m/s, large development of snowdrifts and cornices. Annupuri 1000m: -8C, 15cm of fresh on piste, large development of snowdrifts and cornices. Hirafu 1000m: -7C, 10cm of fresh on piste, large development of snowdrifts and cornices. Annupuri peak 1308m: W12m/s, -12.2C, the wind is calming down. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW12m/s, Kamui cape W10m/s, 2.5m waves, 1012hPa. Westerly 20m/s wind has been persisting all night on the sea of Japan. The wind calmed down early morning and the snowdrifts and cornices are just starting to stabilize. The avalanche risk remains high in 1000m altitude out of bounds national & regional forest areas. Cornice slopes and steeps of the Backbowl, Osawa (Annupuri bowl) and Higashi-One are still very unstable. These slopes should be avoided today even if the gates open. The whole snowdrift slab above Jan 1st layer could let go and induce a large-scale surface slab avalanche. Gates opening is still being discussed; please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Do not duck ropes to step out of bounds. One track left under the rope would lead many others to do the same and increase the probability of accidents. We strongly recommend carrying safety gears when stepping out of bounds. Be ready and vigilant. The snow in the trees is good. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 275cm Base - 110cm Niseko Village: Top - 190cm Base - 130cm Annupuri: Top - 150cm Base - 130cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 3rd January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 438cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 34 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 40cm 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 22cm Snowfall at base this season 475cm Posted on Sunday 5th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Brrrrr, it's an extremely cold morning here in Hirafu. Niseko Village reporting a temperature of -14C a bit earlier this morning on upper slopes. It's about -7 degrees at the moment even here in the village. Be sure to go out wrapped up well today! Good news. More than 20cm since yesterdays report. It was snowing heavily in the afternoon, in real style, thankfully quickly filling in tracks. It's snowing in style right at this moment on the mountain as well, though over the village there's also a bit of sunlight so mixed weather conditions early on. Which was will it go? More good news. All lifts are go this morning, so there's no 'w' affecting things. Monday to Wednesday we might see the snowfall easing off - though as almost always, never too far away - with the next decent snowfall after today forecast for later in the week. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, 20cm of fresh crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: NW10m/s, -12C, 30cm of fresh, slow development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m:NW15m/s, -13C, 40cm of fresh, development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: 40cm of fresh, moderate storm until late night, development of snowdrifts. Annupuri peak 1308m: NW14m/s, -15℃. 12pm forecast: NW15m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW10m/s, Kamui cape WNW9m/s, 1.1m waves, 1012hPa. Snowdrifts and cornices are developing in leeward SE facing slopes above 800m. According to snowfall transition, they are forming slightly heavy soft-slabs. Although the avalanche risk is considerable in slopes above 1000m with highly wind-affected snowdrifts development; namely Backbowl sidewalls and Higashi-One cornice slopes, the general avalanche risk is moderate to low. The snow in the tree is deep. There has been 2 search & rescue cases in upper North face and strictly off-limits Haru no taki area yesterday. Critical accidents are being prevented in Niseko by explaining the dangers of out of bounds skiing and calling for people’s awareness. Please be aware that out of bounds skiing involves high risks. Always be prudent. Strictly of limits areas are not to be entered at any time and any reasons. One selfish thinking will increase the number of people ducking ropes and eventually end up in an accident. We strongly demand everyone to respect the Rules. Peak gates are scheduled to open, please pay attention to the ski patrol’s advice before stepping out of bounds. Beware of sudden change of weather. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 295cm Base - 155cm Niseko Village: Top - 210cm Base - 140cm Annupuri: Top - 170cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Sunday 5th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 475cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 36 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 77cm 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 30cm Snowfall at base this season 505cm Posted on Monday 6th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and what a very good morning it is and will be. I have another 30cm or so of fresh snowfall to report from down here in the Hirafu village. It hasn't really let up since yesterday morning, so there's the answer to yesterday's 'which way will it go' question! Conditions will continue to be simply excellent. What more can I say? Just take care you don't get lost in the snow. It's supposed to ease off today and we might see some sun tomorrow, but who knows. I'll just let you know how things are tomorrow morning. Niseko being so popular is of course busy throughout the peak season but now that the New Year period is over for most people, we should be getting back to normal from today. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, 15cm of fresh crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: NW5m/s, calm, no development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW8m/s, light development of snowdrifts, 30cm of fresh, -11C. Hirafu: 15cm of fresh, calm. Peak 1308m: WNW7m/s, -13C. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW16m/s, Kamui cape W14m/s, 1.6m waves, 1014hPa. Snow & wind will momentarily pick up under the wintry pressure pattern. Beware of sudden weather changes and poor visibility in areas above 800m. According to weather transition and observations, the general avalanche risk is low. The is not as deep as yesterday, epic conditions. Peak gates will open from the morning. Seek for ski patrol’s advice, carry backcountry safety gears and step out of bounds from the gates. Skiing steep faces like the Backbowl involves high risks at all time. Don’t take it easy, be aware of the consequences and be prudent. Too many people keep entering strictly off-limits Haru no Taki area and disrespecting the Rules. Violators will have their passes confiscated and banned from skiing in Niseko resorts. Having people respect the Rules is the only way to protect the current system allowing skiing out of bounds. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 320cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 230cm Base - 160cm Annupuri: Top - 190cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 6th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 505cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 37 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 107cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 530cm Posted on Wednesday 8th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's another 10cm or so of snow to report this morning, though it is a relatively warm one - into the positives! - and so rather wet snow conditions to what we are used to. It should be getting colder though as the day moves on today and from tomorrow too it should be a return to winter cold. So just a blip I think. Just cloud here now but snow due over the coming days into the weekend so we should be getting regular refills. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: 0C, 5cm of wet crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -3C, northerly breeze, 15cm of fresh. Annupuri 1150m: NW11m/s, -7C, 15m of snowdrifts. Annupuri peak 1308m: NW8.4m/s, -7C. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW11m/s, Kamui cape: N10m/s, 1.2m waves, 1013hPa. Wet snowfall due to a low-pressure system inducing warm air inflow. The wind is calm and development of snowdrift is slim. A notable Jan 7th layer will form in the future snowpack due to change in temperature. Although the surface hasn’t been reset, the snow is generally in good condition. The overall avalanche risk is low, however large avalanche (120cm thick) from Jan 3rd layer triggered by humid surface slab slide is to be considered in south facing Haru no taki area. Do not enter those strictly off-limits areas. Gates are scheduled to open from the morning, please follow the ski patrol's instructions. Many of the avalanche accidents occur in leeward slopes with heavy snowdrift deposit. Better not stimulate slopes with cornices or knoll terrain during of just after storms. They can let go very easily. Be aware that surface slabs formed due to sun-exposure (sun-crusts/film-crusts) can sometimes induce slides from deeper unstable layers. Prudence and vigilance will avoid accidents. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 310cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village: Top - 230cm Base - 160cm Annupuri: Top - 195cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 8th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 530cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 39 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 132cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 520cm Posted on Tuesday 7th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's a calm morning in Niseko and we can actually see some mountains, including that very lovely one over there called Yotei. More snowfall up until this morning though, about another 10-15cm since my last report. There's still some cloud around this morning, but some blue sky as well and I do think the sun might shine down on us as well this morning. Take the chance while you can though as the snow clouds will probably be back soon though, perhaps even later today. After that, snow lined up through into the weekend. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, 2cm of fresh snow. Moiwa 800m: -8C, calm morning and minimal development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -10C, light breeze. Annupuri peak: 1308m: WNW9m/s, -11C. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW11m/s, Kamui cape WSW10m/s, 1.2m waves, 1021hPa. Peak wind forecast at noon: W16m/s. A high-pressure system is overlaying the mountain range; calm morning with light dusts. The overall avalanche hazard is low. Peak gates are scheduled to open from the morning. A westerly wind is forecasted to pick up later during the day; beware of sudden weather changes. The area outside the boundary ropes is outside resort management; it is unmanaged and uncontrolled quasi-national park / mountain areas. Always be conscious of the risks involved in skiing in there. Guides and group leaders are responsible for the safety of their groups. Thoughtful evaluation of the group’s ability level is required when choosing the touring route. Be careful of trees and falling into hidden cracks. The hazards of winter mountains are not limited to avalanches. Do not duck ropes to step out of bounds. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 320cm Base - 155cm Niseko Village: Top - 230cm Base - 160cm Annupuri: Top - 190cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Tuesday 7th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 520cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 38 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 122cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 565cm Posted on Friday 10th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here More snow once again this morning from Hirafu and this time it's 25cm. It's a very cold morning here. -8 degrees at base now, and resorts reporting temperatures of down to -17 degrees (Annupuri) this morning. There's a moderate wind this morning which is causing just a few issues at the moment - the King Number 3 at Grand Hirafu is on hold and the Gondola at Niseko Village is operating at a reduced speed as are the quads over at Hanazono. Other than that the lifts seem to be open as normal for now. Oh yes... it's snowing, and will continue snow and continue to be cold. From tomorrow (11th January) until 2nd February, at Niseko Grand Hirafu the Ace Number 2 Center Four quad lift will be opening at an earlier time for their 'Early Morning' service. Time is 8am until 8:20am and it costs an additional 500 yen - unfortunately you can't use season tickets or normal lift tickets for this service. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 15cm of crushed-crystal snow in the past 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: WNW15m/s, -14C, 20cm of crushed-crystal with snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: NW15m/s, -16C, 20cm of fresh with snowdrift development, 200cm snowpack. Annupuri peak 1308m: WNW10m/s, -18℃. Forecasted wind at noon: NW20m/s. Hirafu 1000m: -14C, 30cm of fresh with snowdrifts development. Coastal data: Benkei capeNNW15m/s, Kamui capeW12m/s, 2.2m waves, 1013hPa. Wintry pressure pattern is generating stormy conditions. Snowdrifts are developing fast, up 150cm in leeward knolls above 800m. According to snowfall transition, observations and data evaluation, the avalanche risk is high from the morning. Peak gates will be closed. Other gates opening will depend on ski patrol’s judgment. Better not stimulate cornices and knolls today, a 30-70cm thick surface slab avalanche is to be highly considered in typical avalanche terrains, such as 800m Osawa cornice slopes and Mikaeri bowl. Storms generate thick and heavy slabs of dense snow due to wind-drift accumulation. Rapidly forming snowdrift slabs are extremely unstable in the wind, could collapse with the slightest stimulation and trigger a large surface slab slide. Better not step out of bounds today. The snow in the trees is heavy and deep, but good fun. Beware of frostbite. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 330cm Base - 165cm Niseko Village: Top - 240cm Base - 170cm Annupuri: Top - 205cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 10th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 565cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 41 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 167cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 540cm Posted on Thursday 9th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another 10cm here in Hirafu this morning. Even when it gets milder up here, the snow never seems to be far away in season! One of the things to surely love about Niseko. Anyway, it is colder this morning and it's set to get colder still over the next few days. Snowfall is forecast right through until next week as well so we should be seeing regular topups. Hopefully the wind will behave I hope you can be here to enjoy it. Remember to wrap up well! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, 5cm of dry snow flakes. Moiwa 800m: -10C, 10cm of fresh and light development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -12C, NNE8m/s, moderate development of snowdrifts. Annupuri peak 1308m: NNW7.6m, -14C. Wind forecast at noon: NW15m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW8m/s, Kamui cape: NW8m/s, 1.6m waves, 1009hPa. Snowpack at Mizuno no sawa knoll: 280cm. Significant cold air-mass is approaching and will make snow & wind pick up later today. General avalanche risk remains low this morning; however will rise from higher altitude slopes as the snowdrifts start to develop. Peak gate will open from the morning. Pay attention to the ski patrol’s advices and make sure to carry backcountry safety equipment when stepping out of bounds. Beware of sudden weather changes. Do not forget that outside the gates is outside resort management. Cornice slopes above 1200m, such as the Backbowl’s sidewalls, should be avoided today as slides from Jan 7th layer are to be expected. Most avalanche accidents are caused by fractures of developing snowdrifts (surface slabs). Niseko terrain is generally gentle, however avalanche accidents do happen if the conditions are right. Please do respect the Niseko Rules to protect the freedom and safety of resort-access backcountry skiing. Do not duck ropes. Mizuno no sawa educational program is starting from today. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 320cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 230cm Base - 160cm Annupuri: Top - 200cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Thursday 9th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 540cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 40 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 142cm 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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 615cm Posted on Sunday 12th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another 25cm of snow since yesterday. I'm sure I said that yesterday. Yes, I did. But it's true, as the snow just doesn't seem to want to stop at the moment. Good snow wants to fall on Niseko! There's not as much wind this morning but later on stronger winds forecast. Snow is still falling and visibility is generally fairly poor. Apart from the top lifts at Grand Hirafu and the Jumbo Number 4 lit at Annupuri having a late start as they cope with snow, all lifts plan to be running as scheduled. Let's look at the numbers and see what they say. Today Niseko Grand Hirafu is reporting 175cm at base and 360cm on upper areas. The same day last year those numbers were 200cm and 380cm respectively. So actually a bit less than last year. In our Now report on January 12th 2013 we were reporting a running total of 756cm of snowfall since the beginning of the season. Today that same number for this season is 615cm. The Japan Meteorological Agency's numbers for Kutchan town for January 2013 were 268cm. So far this month we have 134cm and so we're half way there in 12 days. December 2013 saw less snowfall than December 2012 and so it would be good to 'catch up'. Just for the sake of the numbers! Whatever the numbers are, continued snow refreshes are making for excellent conditions every day. Take care out there and have fun. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 20cm of fresh. Moiwa 800m: -11C, NW10m/s, 30cm of fresh, large & unstable development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW15m/s, -14C, 40cm snow, large development of unstable cornices and snowdrifts. Annupuri peak: W8m/s, -15℃. Wind forecast at noon: WNW20m/s. Hirafu 12hours snowfall 40cm. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW10m/s, Kamui cape W9m/s, 2m waves, 1016hPa. The isobars are spacing out as the next low-pressure system is approaching, and the wind is stagnating around 10m/s since 2am. However, the wind is forecasted to pick up later today. The avalanche risk is high above 800m. Possibilities of 80-120cm thick surface slab avalanches are present in the Backbowl, Osawa 1100m cornice slopes, Higashi-One cornice slopes and Mikaeri Bowl. Gate 2 & 3 will be kept closed today. Gate 1 & 4 are scheduled to open, however traversing all the way across to the cornices is strongly not recommend. Very hazardous conditions today. Other gates still to be determined, please respect the ski patrol’s decisions. The mountain is in unstable conditions due to the continuing storm; keep in mind that accidents are most likely to occur during and just after storms. Beware of sudden weather changes, stay humble and be prudent. Have you switched your avy beacon on? --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 360cm Base - 175cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 180cm Annupuri: Top - 220cm Base - 190cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Sunday 12th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 615cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 43 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 217cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 590cm Posted on Saturday 11th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here First the great news. Another 25cm of snow since yesterday. Yes, it just keeps on coming. And so do the cold temperatures, so snow conditions out on the mountain are just really great at the moment. Less great is that wind is causing a few issues this morning - at Annupuri the Gondola, Jumbo 3 and 4 lifts are not moving at the moment; at Niseko Village the Gondola is on hold; and here at Grand Hirafu the top lifts at both Hirafu and Hanazono are on standby. Subject to change of course with the weather conditions. Fingers crossed on that score. One more thing that I think I forgot to mention yesterday. Today and tomorrow are the weekend of course, but in Japan Monday is also a holiday making it a long weekend and one of the more popular 'ski weekends' of the season with Japanese. So it will be - and is already - busy. Without wanting to sound repetitive, the snow should continue today and tomorrow and probably Monday too. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 30cm of fresh snow. Moiwa 800m: NW15m/s, -13C, 20cm of fresh snow with heavy development of snowdrifts, bad visibility. Annupuri 1000m: strong wind and bad visibility (6am), -11C, 20cm of fresh with snowdrift development. Hirafu1000m: 30cm of fresh, relatively protected from the wind. Annupuri peak 1308m: NW14.8m/s, -17.3C. Wind frecast at noon: NW18m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW16m/s, Kamui cape WNW12m/s, 2.4m waves, 1018hPa. Snowstrom is persisting and generating heavy snowdrift development. The avalanche hazard is extreme in 800m leeward steep slopes. Peak gates will be closed. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Heavy snowfall and the new snowpack is deep and heavy. Cornices and knolls are extremely unstable. Do not stimulate these features. Avalanches are most likely to occur during stormy conditions. The snow in the trees is deep and good, but also easy to get stuck, stay close to the course. Beware of tumbles and suffocation. The snow condition is ever changing. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 180cm Annupuri: Top - 205cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 11th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 590cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 42 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 192cm 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 30cm Snowfall at base this season 645cm Posted on Monday 13th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Mad snow at the moment in Niseko. On the mountain yesterday there was considerably more than the amount we had noted down here in the village area, and it just kept on coming with heavy snow conditions. This morning there's yet another 30cm or so here, so let's presume that there was once again more up on the mountain. Let's forget about the fine details of numbers though... it's simply very deep out there at the moment. We're at that point when some of people are wishing for the snow to stop and for the sun to come out - these kinds of conditions every day are not for everyone. It's also extremely cold this morning. A moderate wind doesn't seem to be affecting lifts too much, with just a few running at reduced speed as I write this report. Limited visibility as you might expect. So it's full on winter conditions - so go out prepared. Read the Avalanche Report and stay safe. Most of all, enjoy it! We might see a slight let up tomorrow but generally we still have snow forecast every day into the weekend. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -12C, 20cm of broken crystal snow in the past 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: -13C, strong NW wind with snowdrift development, bad visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -16C, considerable development of cornice and snowdrifts. Peak 1308m: NW14.1m/s, -18.1℃. Wind forecast at noon: NW18m/s. Hirafu 1000m: 80cm snowfall in 12 hours with development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW13m/s, Kamui cape NNW10m/s, 1.5m waves, 1014hPa. Snowclouds are still widely present over the Sea of Japan and stormy condition continues. According to snowfall transition and data evaluation, the overall avalanche risk is high. Refrain from stimulating knolls and open steep slopes. An avalanche occurred in Higashi-One no.3 gully yesterday, ripping the skis off a skier. The cornices are still very unstable & heavy, and can easily burry a person if falling with it. Snow is deep in the trees as well, boarders should consider carrying snowshoes. Gates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 will be closed. Keep in mind that accidents often happen during poor weather conditions. Be prudent. The conditions will turn better soon. Better not push it too hard today, go for a quick ride and better go chill out in an onsen. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 290cm Base - 210cm Annupuri: Top - 235cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 13th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 645cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 44 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 247cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 700cm Posted on Wednesday 15th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here So after I posted the report yesterday morning the clouds did clear up and the sun did make an appearance. For a short time at least, it was blue skies and sun along with cold conditions. Beautiful. And those superb snow conditions...! The clear skies didn't last long though, evidence being the 15cm of fresh snowfall to report from Hirafu this morning. It continues to snow early this morning as well and that's basically what is forecast for the day today. Though there is a chance of the clouds clearing up some during the day as well. Whatever, it looks like the continued heavy snowfall we have had over the last week or so though is easing off. Even so, the snow clouds probably won't ever be too far away and it should be keeping good and cold. Top gates should be open this morning. More on that below... --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 15cm of crystal snow in the past 12 hours. Miwa 800m: -11C, W10m/s, 20cm of fresh, good visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -13C, W10m/s, 20cm of fresh, moderate development of snowdrift. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, 20cm of fresh. Peak 1308m: WSW4.5m/s, -16℃, wind forecast at noon: W15m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW8m/s, Kamui cape W11m/s, 1.6m waves, 1023hPa. Calm conditions under high-pressure zone. According to observation and data evaluations, no drastic snowdrift development can be observed and the overall avalanche risk is low. Peak gate 2 & 3 are scheduled to open at 10am. Ask for the ski patrol’s advice before stepping out the gates. Avalanche hazard is still high the Backbowl and Higashi-One steeps & knolls around the cornices. Better not take it too easy and drop into these slopes without determination. If it slides, it will be big. Better avoid the valley bottoms. The number of people ducking ropes is increasing. Niseko area strongly demands all people to respect the Niseko Rules; no matter where you’re from, what ethnic groups, how much experience or knowledge you might have. Ropes must not be crossed for any reasons. One track under the ropes leads many others to do the same and quickly increase the chances of accidents to happen. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 210cm Niseko Village: Top - 310cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 245cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 15th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 700cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 46 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 302cm 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