Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 884cm Posted on Friday 3rd May 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. Annupuri has announced that today (Friday) is going to be the last day of the season over there. Hirafu still seems intent on continuing beyond today, and warning of possibly windy conditions this morning (that might affect lift operations). Mt Yotei is looking very fetching this morning, wearing a wide-rimmed cloud hat. Perhaps to celeblate the start of the second four-day chunk of Golden Week. Note: It seems like I had left a mistake in info list (below), labelling the lift still open at Annupuri as the 'Dream' instead of 'Jumbo'. My mistake, my apologies. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Friday 3rd May 2024 The below snow depth and other information is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing and subject to change. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 100cm (-5cm since yesterday) - Base: 0cm Planned closing date (subject to conditions): - Monday 6th May 2024 Lifts (scheduled): - Hirafu Gondola; opens at 8:25am - King Number 3 quad - Last gondola up at 3:45pm; last gondola down at 4:30pm Courses (scheduled): - Beginner access - Shirakaba (spring park) - Center - Rinkan Notes: - You need to get the gondola back to base ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 100cm (-10cm since yesterday) - Base: 0cm (no change since yesterday) Planned closing date (subject to conditions): - Today is the last day of the season at Annupuri Lifts (scheduled): - Jumbo Number 1 quad ------------------ Now closed Niseko HANAZONO Resort, Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort and Niseko Village Ski Resort are now closed for the season. ------------------ Night skiing has now finished for the 2023-2024 season. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Friday 3rd May 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 884cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 94 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 298cm reported on 24 days February 2024 snowfall 144cm reported on 20 days March 2024 snowfall 70cm reported on 13 days April 2024 snowfall 5cm reported on 2 days May 2024 snowfall 0cm 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 884cm Posted on Saturday 4th May 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Wind disrupted lifts yesterday. Pesky. And so, here we are, the last weekend of the ski season. And with Annupuri finishing up yesterday afternoon, only Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu remains open. Or at least, they plan to! With me having to post a really early report today, there's no official word yet, but they are scheduled to be open with the Gondola and King Number 3 quad lift operating. It is another fine morning, just with more cloud around. It should be a pleasantly warm day, perhaps getting up to around 20C in town. Currently, weather for tomorrow is due to be cloudy with rain likely on Monday, the final day. Not the best way to end on. Let's see... ------------------ Individual ski area information for Saturday 4th May 2024 The below snow depth and other information is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing and subject to change. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 95cm (-5cm since yesterday) - Base: 0cm Planned closing date (subject to conditions): - Monday 6th May 2024 Lifts (scheduled): - Hirafu Gondola; opens at 8:25am - King Number 3 quad - Last gondola up at 3:45pm; last gondola down at 4:30pm Courses (scheduled): - Beginner access - Shirakaba (spring park) - Center - Rinkan Notes: - You need to get the gondola back to base ------------------ Now closed Niseko Annupuri Kokusai, Niseko HANAZONO Resort, Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort and Niseko Village Ski Resort are now closed for the season. ------------------ Night skiing has now finished for the 2023-2024 season. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Saturday 4th May 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 884cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 94 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 298cm reported on 24 days February 2024 snowfall 144cm reported on 20 days March 2024 snowfall 70cm reported on 13 days April 2024 snowfall 5cm reported on 2 days May 2024 snowfall 0cm 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 884cm Posted on Sunday 5th May 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello and good morning from Niseko. We have a mostly cloudy kind of early morning and there's a bit of wind around too. Hopefully the lifts will not be affected: both the Hirafu gondola and King Number 3 quad seem to have started up for the day. Tomorrow is officially the last day of the ski season in the wider Niseko region. Unfortunately, it is still looking like we will get rained on. I'll post my end of season message tomorrow. And then on Tuesday, I'm going to sleep as long as possible and not touch my computer all day! :) ------------------ Individual ski area information for Sunday 5th May 2024 The below snow depth and other information is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing and subject to change. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 75cm (-20cm since yesterday) - Base: 0cm Planned closing date (subject to conditions): - TOMORROW Lifts (scheduled): - Hirafu Gondola; opens at 8:25am - King Number 3 quad - Last gondola up at 3:45pm; last gondola down at 4:30pm Courses (scheduled): - Beginner access - Shirakaba (spring park) - Center - Rinkan Notes: - You need to get the gondola back to base ------------------ Now closed Niseko Annupuri Kokusai, Niseko HANAZONO Resort, Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort and Niseko Village Ski Resort are now closed for the season. ------------------ Night skiing has now finished for the 2023-2024 season. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Sunday 5th May 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 884cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 94 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 298cm reported on 24 days February 2024 snowfall 144cm reported on 20 days March 2024 snowfall 70cm reported on 13 days April 2024 snowfall 5cm reported on 2 days May 2024 snowfall 0cm 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 884cm Posted on Monday 6th May 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko on this official last day of the 2023-2024 ski season. The two ski lifts at Hirafu will be finishing up the season later today. Unfortunately for people wanting to enjoy this last day of the season, it's raining and a bit windy too. Doh! From tomorrow, all the ski lifts will be taking a well-earned rest. Here are the final snowfall numbers for the 2023-2024 season and previous seasons, so we can all lets comparing. Observed by me at base, here in Hirafu: 2023-2024 season: 884cm 2022-2023 season: 1006cm 2021-2022 season: 1137cm 2020-2021 season: 1210cm 2019-2020 season: 728cm 2018-2019 season: 951cm 2017-2018 season: 1260cm 2016-2017 season: 686cm 2015-2016 season: 989cm 2014-2015 season: 1144cm 2013-2014 season: 1163cm 2012-2013 season: 1491cm 884cm is less than the previous three seasons and 170cm less than the average of 1054cm over the last 12 seasons. The first ski lifts started the season on 1st December 2023, and it is now 6th May 2024. I believe that means that the season was 158 days. I set out to write an entire season review to finish the season, but looking back at my monthly recaps, I realise there's not much more I can say that I haven't already said. So, I'll point you in the direction of those monthly recaps. Along with the daily reports throughout the season, they give a good idea of how the season developed along the way with some added personal observations (sometimes featuring toast, bubbles, and posh bags). Here are those main recaps: 2nd January 2024 (a look back at the season so far: up to the end of December 2023) 1st February 2024 (a look back at the season so far: up to the end of January 2024) 1st March 2024 (a look back at the season so far: up to the end of February 2024) 1st April 2024 (a look back at the season so far: up to the end of March 2024) I said this last year, but after thinking about the weather and snow for such a long time, I don't want to start thinking about what next year might bring. Bottom line, though, let's have tons of snow, please. 'More than average' would be great! For now, I plan to take a much-needed rest from all this stuff. I will start paying attention again when I come out of hibernation and get ready to go in late October. I hope you enjoyed following the Niseko Now reports this year, and perhaps some or all of the other regional reports on SnowJapan too. It has been a pleasure. Hopefully, that comes across. Even the little frustrations along the way make the whole more interesting. (Sort of). If you so wish, you can send me a message using the SnowJapan contact form. All Niseko Now-related comments are sent to me. It might not be possible to reply to them personally, but I do read them and appreciate any comments. Thank you to everyone who has been in touch during the season. A big shout out and respect to the folks who work throughout the year to bring us the unique, excellent, independent resource that is SnowJapan.com. I truly believe we are fortunate that such a thing exists in 2024. One last funny story. This season, after discovering I was a 'local', one visiting person I shared a ski lift ride with asked me if I liked toast. Firstly, ridiculous question, right? Everyone likes toast. But I think it might have been a ruse to try and expose my identity, so I was careful in how I responded. (I later had a bit of a chuckle imagining them asking the same question to other people.) I know some people wonder, 'Why the anonymity?' These reports are high-profile and are read by thousands of people every day. Basically, I feel more comfortable being anonymous and I really do not wish to be known as 'the Niseko Now reporter'. (Also, I'm really shy). In time-hono(u)red tradition, it's time to fill myself up on toast and prepare for a prolonged summer hibernation. I hope it doesn't get too hot for you non-hibernating types. (But it probably will). Thank you, take care, peace to all, and see you again in November. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Monday 6th May 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 884cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 94 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 298cm reported on 24 days February 2024 snowfall 144cm reported on 20 days March 2024 snowfall 70cm reported on 13 days April 2024 snowfall 5cm reported on 2 days May 2024 snowfall 0cm Previous 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 Madarao region of Nagano New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 50cm Posted on Tuesday 9th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Madarao Now report can be found here . Quick one to report a bit of snow. The ski area will need more to open on Saturday but some good snowfall is currently forecast going into Friday. Fingers crossed. Planned opening dates: Madarao: Saturday 13th December Tangram Ski Circus: Saturday 20th December Madarao Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Tuesday 9th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 50cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 4 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 26cm (on 19th November) November 2025 snowfall 26cm reported on 1 day December 2025 snowfall 24cm 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 Madarao. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Geto Kogen region of Iwate New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 191cm Posted on Tuesday 9th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Just a few cm of (wet) snow this morning and maybe up to around 5cm on top. After rain yesterday the change to snow is welcome, but of course not being good for the snow. Looks like none of the runs are groomed this morning (not enough snow layer). So, not great. But still part open if you need to get out there. We kind of need more decent snow to get things going again. --------------------------- Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): 90cm (top) 37cm (base) Geto Kogen Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Tuesday 9th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 191cm Number of days snowfall observed 9 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 77cm (on 5th December) November 2025 snowfall 54cm observed on 5 days December 2025 snowfall 137cm observed 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 Geto Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 13cm Snowfall at base this season 85cm Good morning to you all from Niseko. There was a powerful earthquake late last night off the eastern coast of Aomori. A reminder that these things happen without warning and are very scary. Thoughts with everyone coping with that situation this morning. OK, on to our situation here in Niseko. I am happy to report over 10cm of fresh snow on the ground this morning and 20cm or so being reported by ski areas from higher elevations. It is definitely colder as well. It was actually snowing lightly when I started putting this report together, but all of a sudden much of the cloud has cleared and we have quite a lot of blue sky and sunshine now. Lovely. Hopefully with more snow due over the coming days ski areas will be able to expand operations further. They are, I'm sure, eager to do so. (As are we all!) ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base: -1℃, WSW2m/s, 10cm snowfall in the last 12hrs, 20cm in 24hrs. Moiwa Mikaeri 800m: -7℃, WNW3.8m/s, bad visibility. Hanazono 800m: -6.2℃, NNW6.3m/s. Coastal weather: Benkei cape NW16m/s, Kamui cape W12m/s, 1018hPa, 2.1m waves. Earthquake in Tohoku area at midnight: Intensity 7, Tsunami Peak 40cm. Winter-type pressure pattern. Snowstorms with winds below 20m/s over 800m elevation. Though snowfall amounts are low, snowdrifts have developed on the leeward side of ridgelines. Snow has formed a slab layer with yesterday’s 20cm of low-pressure snowfall, making shallow surface avalanches likely on open steep slopes. Ski slopes are covered with a thin layer of fresh snow, but skiing is unsuitable except on lower courses. Getting injured now could ruin your entire season. Monitor weather changes and beware of frostbite. Have a good day. ------------------------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 15cm Base: 15cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 100cm (+15cm change since yesterday) Base: 35cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: All four lifts Planned open courses: Mango Salad Silver Dream Juicy Fruit Parallel Yotei Sunset ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 20cm Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 120cm (+15cm since yesterday) Base: 40cm (+15cm since yesterday) Planned lift operations: Ace Gondola Ace Number 3 pair King Gondola King Number 3 six Swinging Monkey Planned open courses: Center Jumbo Beginners access ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Planned lift operations: Upper Village Gondola Village Express Community Chair Banzai Chair ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 50cm (+30cm change since yesterday) Base: 30cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: Dream Number 1 quad Jumbo Number 1 quad Planned open courses: Paradise Junior ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Planned lift operations: Number 1 pair Number 2 pair Niseko Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Tuesday 9th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 85cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 13 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (4th December) November 2025 snowfall 29cm reported on 7 days December 2025 snowfall 56cm 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 140cm Posted on Tuesday 9th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . Hello Skiers & Boarders, We are a-Rockin' & a-Rollin'. Mucho snow fell throughout the day yesterday. The final tally was 25 cm at the base and 30 cm on top. It's a good heavy, somewhat wet, snow that packs like a dream and establishes a good base. No complaints from me. Speaking of bases, the resort reports a base at the base of 55 cm, and a healthy 140 cm on top. Lift-wise, the big news today is the opening of the Prince Romance lift, aka Lift C. This is the beginner lift at the New Prince Hotel. Snow escalator not open yet. Things are shaping up fairly well. The weather looks nice and chilly for the coming week. A little more snow today. Think snow. --- Ropeway + Lifts C & D 8:30 -- 15:00 *The A2 run is open all the way to the base. **The infamous Furano Quad has been repaired and will open per normal schedule later this month.** Furano Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Tuesday 9th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 140cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 12 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 30cm (6th December) November 2025 snowfall 45cm reported on 5 days December 2025 snowfall 95cm 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 Furano. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 841cm Posted on Tuesday 5th March 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. It's a mostly overcast kind of morning, but it is quite bright. It might snow lightly; it might get to be a bit sunny. There doesn't seem to be much forecast snow on the weekly outlook just now (significant amounts, anyway). Keeping cold will be good! ------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base 6am: -6℃, 5cm snowfall in 12h, calm. Moiwa 800m: -8.7℃, NNW8.5m/s, 1cm snowfall with snowdrifts. Mikaeri 764m: -8.9℃, NW3.1m/s. Annupuri 1100m: -12.2℃, WNW9.9m/s. Village 1000m: -10.7℃, NW5.3m/s. Hirafu Hanazono: -11.4℃, NNW3.7m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW13m/s, Kamui cape WNW9m/s, 1020hPa, 1.3m waves. The isobars have spread out, however the wind remains strong in higher elevations. Cold air is keeps flowing in. The new snowdrift slabs are starting to stabilise, however are still unstable in slopes around 1000m elevation. Peak gates are scheduled to open. Follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Kozan no Sawa (Backbowl) and O-sawa (Annupuri Bowl) should be avoided all day today. The avalanche risk remains high in those areas. Avalanches are natural phenomena and are not an accident unless somebody gets caught in one. Do not stay put at the bottom of a slope. Do not carelessly stimulate knolls. You might trigger a slide and somebody may be caught in it. A snowpack generated by a storm (strong wind) is structurally denser and less stable than one by a calm snowfall. And those snowpacks are generally the cause of an avalanche accident in Niseko. This is the reasoning behind the gates opening/closing in Niseko. Winter mountains are inherently dangerous. Avalanches do not occur from new snow piled up on frozen snow. It is more important to pay attention to “how” the snow fell. Many accidents are being reported throughout Japan. Unfortunately, the deceased will never return. We would like to send our warmest condolences. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Tuesday 5th March 2024 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing and subject to change. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 15cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 320cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 110cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts apart from King Number 1 pair and King Number 2 quad (normal operations) - The Ace Family quad, Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four), Hirafu Gondola and Holiday Number 1 pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 15cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 265cm (+10cm since yesterday) - Base: 183cm (+8cm since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts - The Hanazono Symphony Gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 220cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 140cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts - The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 225cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 137cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts apart from Country Road - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Tuesday 5th March 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 841cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 83 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 298cm reported on 24 days February 2024 snowfall 144cm reported on 20 days March 2024 snowfall 32cm 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 14cm Snowfall at base this season 679cm Posted on Thursday 1st February 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. We start February with noticeably colder conditions and a nice layer of fresh snow, hurray! I have measured 11cm and it is coming down nicely now, but that means that visibility is limited at base. I'm looking forward to being able to report further snow tomorrow. It looks like the top lifts are going to be challenged by wind on the mountain this morning - they are not opening at normal time. Annupuri gondola on hold, too. And now for something completely different. ----------------------------- A look back at the season so far: until end of January 2024 I know it’s a cliché but, seriously… it’s February, already?! Time flies when you’re having fun, etc. As always, the numbers I am introducing in this report are all the snowfall measurements I have observed near the base of Hirafu. The numbers within my reports are all comparable (year-on-year) because they have come from the same spot every day over the last 12 seasons. This is how much snowfall I have measured during the month of January over the years. January 2024: 298cm January 2023: 332cm January 2022: 325cm January 2021: 387cm January 2020: 224cm January 2019: 285cm January 2018: 305cm January 2017: 152cm January 2016: 303cm January 2015: 257cm January 2014: 461cm January 2013: 443cm I was able to report snowfall reported on 24 days in January 2024 and on 59 days so far this season. The big headline of the month was surely the whopping 62cm that I reported on 8th January. That is the most that I have ever measured in one report. In the end, though, I measured less snowfall in January 2024 than I was able to in the previous three seasons, and it was also less than my average (314cm). Not by much, so nothing major. And the first half of the month was clearly snowier than the second half of the month. Still, in what is being described as a 暖冬 (warm winter) in Japan, I think we have done really well. I don’t know the details of other parts of Hokkaido, but I get the impression that up here we have had a much better time of it than many regions of Japan. Some regions in western Japan have really been struggling and other normally very snowy regions in central Japan are experiencing much less snowfall than normal/average. (I wonder does the ‘normal/average’ comparison number get adjusted every year?) Next up are the totals for the 2023-2024 winter season so far. The following is how much snowfall I have observed up until the end of January: 2023/2024 season up to end of January 2024: 665cm 2022/2023 season up to end of January 2023: 685cm 2021/2022 season up to end of January 2021: 717cm 2020/2021 season up to end of January 2020: 797cm 2019/2020 season up to end of January 2019: 516cm 2018/2019 season up to end of January 2018: 702cm 2017/2018 season up to end of January 2017: 899cm 2016/2017 season up to end of January 2016: 443cm 2015/2016 season up to end of January 2015: 608cm 2014/2015 season up to end of January 2014: 806cm 2013/2014 season up to end of January 2013: 859cm 2012/2013 season up to end of January 2012: 979cm The average over the last 12 seasons has been 723cm. Here is how much of the total snowfall for the whole season we have already had received by the end of January in previous seasons, which might give us an idea of what to normally expect for the rest of the season: By the end of January 2023, as a % of the season total: about 68% By the end of January 2022, as a % of the season total: about 63% By the end of January 2021, as a % of the season total: about 66% By the end of January 2020, as a % of the season total: about 71% By the end of January 2019, as a % of the season total: about 74% By the end of January 2018, as a % of the season total: about 71% By the end of January 2017, as a % of the season total: about 65% By the end of January 2016, as a % of the season total: about 61% By the end of January 2015, as a % of the season total: about 70% By the end of January 2014, as a % of the season total: about 74% By the end of January 2013, as a % of the season total: about 66% So, in recent years, by the end of January we have already received between two-thirds and three-quarters of the total snowfall for the season as a whole. (At base). Let’s look forward to what we might expect in February. Here’s how much snowfall I have recorded during previous seasons in that month. (The numbers in brackets show the total observed snowfall in each season by the end of February.) February 2023: 289cm (974cm) February 2022: 337cm (1054cm) February 2021: 325cm (1122cm) February 2020: 143cm (659cm) February 2019: 198cm (900cm) February 2018: 299cm (1198cm) February 2017: 160cm (603cm) February 2016: 266cm (874cm) February 2015: 196cm (1002cm) February 2014: 178cm (1037cm) February 2013: 316cm (1295cm) Make of all this what you will! Some thoughts at the end of January It's peak season, and Niseko is busy and in full swing. Niseko has also seemingly been getting attention in the Japanese national media. I often watch the evening news on TV in Japan. In the last few weeks, I have seen two national shows doing extended pieces about Niseko. I think I was even stopped in the street for an interview by one of them early in the New Year, but I politely refused. (I'm really shy). Both mentioned that visitors to Niseko ski areas are now '90% foreign' (said in a factual way, not a derogatory way) and that for many Japanese visitors, it now almost feels like going abroad in terms of people, environment (buildings and signs) and prices (very high). Both amusingly mentioned some place offering curry rice costing 2,400 yen, which is indeed double or more than what is expected in Japan. (It was fairly oishii, apparently). Both also mentioned super posh expensive accommodation costing (cue Dr Evil voice) 500 MILLION DOLLARS, but even so, it was full/sold out. I don't know if these numbers are correct, but apparently, there were 550 'accommodations' (definition unclear) in 2019, and there are 840 now. One tended to concentrate on the fun things, like how everyone seemed to be having fun, the super snow that got everyone wanting to be here in the first place, and an 'international atmosphere'. Also, it was a good chance for some young Japanese people to get a well-paid (more than in central Tokyo) part-time job and practice English at the same time, etc. It really liked the Food Trucks Village 'Eat the Street in Niseko' kitchen cars area that they have going until 24th February. Side note: I think there should be a kitchen car specialising in toast. That would almost certainly be the most popular one. The other one took a bit of a darker tone and introduced the phrase 'Niseko bubble', referencing the Japanese bubble economy in the 1980s. Clearly, that particular bubble didn't go too well in the early 90s – spoiler: it burst – and it wasn't clear if they were just being dramatic about fast economic growth or suggesting that it might not last. They got a few Japanese skiers who hadn't been to Niseko for 30 years to come and experience it again. They were pretty shocked at the changes (as you would be after 30 years) and lamented about feeling out of place and that everything was unrealistically expensive. It then quickly went to a bunch of foreign skiers, opining that Niseko is not expensive. The point being made (I think) was that Niseko is pricing out many Japanese skiers, and that feels really strange. I have mentioned before in these reports that I have some Japanese friends who have decided to ski in other places this year due to Niseko's expenses, so that is definitely a thing. I doubt the people making all the money care about that kind of thing, though. I can't see any end to any 'bubble'. Covid was definitely an obstacle for a few years, but it is now seemingly all but forgotten. Things have bounced back quickly, bigger and louder, and I can't see anything other than that trend continuing for now. And like I said before, if the prices charged here now put you off, pretty much everywhere else is cheaper (and, in many cases, way cheaper). You might even get to meet some Japanese people, too! I'm just kidding. (There are a few Japanese people here). ------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base at 6am: -7C, 10cm snowfall. Moiwa 800m: -17.6C NW8.6m/s, 20m/s at 5am. Annupuri 1100m: -15.4C, WNW7.6m/s, 20m/s at 6am. Village 1000m: -14.3C, WNW 6m/s. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -14.2C, WNW3.3m/s. Hanazono#3: -12.5C, NNW4.5m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW18m/s, Kamui cape W16m/s, 1013hPa, 2.5m waves. The wintery distribution has brought snow at the foot of the mountains. Strong cold air inflow and westerly snowstorm on the slopes over 700m elevation. Cornices and snowdrifts have developed on the slopes over the 800m elevation due to the strong north westerly wind overnight. Waves in the sea are getting higher. From the observation at 5am, weather data, and patrols’ and groomer operators’ reports, the avalanche risks at the cornice slopes at the Annupuri Osawa, Kozan no Sawa side walls, and Nishi-one(west ridge) at 1000m elevation, and Mikaeri bowl will increase. Most of the peak gates will be closed. Please listen to the patrol's instructions. Do not duck ropes to enter the strictly off-limits area such as Haru-no-taki. Dangerous. Over 1000 people have hiked up the peak yesterday but no accident has been reported. We are grateful for your cooperation to ride cautiously. Today is different from yesterday. As the snowstorm intensifies the avalanche risk increases as the snowdrifts will easily break. Also be cautious if you go to the mountains around the Niseko resorts. Snow is good in the tree runs. Beware of crashing into trees. You cannot beat trees. Have you switched your beacon on? Beware of frostbites. Have a good day. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Thursday 1st February 2024 Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (+10cm since yesterday) - Base: 120cm (+10cm since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts apart from King Number 1 pair and King Number 2 quad (normal operations) - The Ace Family quad, Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four), Hirafu Gondola and Holiday Number 1 pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 250cm (+15cm since yesterday) - Base: 195cm (+17cm since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts - The Hanazono Symphony Gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 210cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 180cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts - The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 246cm (+6cm since yesterday) - Base: 163cm (+3cm since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts apart from Country Road - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts ------------------ Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 20th March 2024. Night skiing is usually until 7:00pm at Hirafu, Hanazono, Village and until 7:30pm at Annupuri. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Thursday 1st February 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 679cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 60 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 298cm reported on 24 days February 2024 snowfall 14cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 356cm Posted on Wednesday 27th December 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello and good morning from Niseko. You want some more fresh snow? Well, this morning I have another 15cm of it to report this morning from base. Hirafu is reporting 30cm of new snowfall at peak which sounds good (but, er, 0cm at base. Doh!) I am liking the consistency we have enjoyed over the last 10 days or so. May it continue... as we still need more! Forecasts seem to be indicating that it might tail off, though, for the last few days of the year. I don't yet have any news to report regarding the opening of top lifts and gates. When I know, I'll let you know! It is snowing and visibility looks varied at the start of the day. And that's about it for today, really. See you tomorrow! ------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base 7am: -6.5C, 15cm snowfall in 12h, 40cm snowdrifts. Mikaeri 764m: -9C, westerly 10m/s, snowdrifts development and 220cm snowpack. Annupuri1000m: -10C, strong westerly wind making wind affected snowdrifts grow 30cm on average, up to 100cm in some spots. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -12.1C, WSW3.8m/s, 25m/s, at 10pm. Hanazono#3: -9.5C, NNW6.3m/s (up to 15m/s). Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW14m/s, Kamui cape W11m/s, 1021hPa, 2.1m waves. Strong wintery pressure distribution with tight isobars spacing. Snowdrifts are largely growing, up to 100cm, in the western aspects above 800m elevation. Cornices are also developing. The avalanche risk is very high in Kozan no Sawa (Backbowl) high elevation leeward sidewalls (1100-1200m). Better not try to approach these slopes from Goshiki side. The snow in the trees is slightly firm dur to the wind and fun to ski. However, bushes are still thick at the bottom of the gullies and is very difficult to come out of there. Highly recommended to remain inbounds and not duck ropes into the side country area. The snow in the western side of the mountain is wind affected and dense. Ski carefully. The snow is lighter and good in the eastern (Hirafu/Hanazono) side. We’re anticipating the opening of gates on New Year’s day. Please help us make it happen by respecting the Niseko Rules. Visibility is intermittently going bad. The new snow on the course side is catchy, be careful. This information is issued based on the reports from the ski patrollers, the cat operators and the institute. Have a good day. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Wednesday 27th December 2023 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing and subject to change. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 30cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 210cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 95cm (+10cm since yesterday) Lifts: - Ace Family quad (until 7:00pm) - Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four) (until 7:00pm) - Ace Number 3 pair - Hirafu Gondola (until 7:00pm) - Holiday Number 1 pair (until 7:00pm) - King Number 3 quad - Swinging Monkey ------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 25cm - Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 160cm - Base: 115cm Lifts: - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola (until 7:00pm) ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 140cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 110cm (+10cm since yesterday) Lifts: - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad (until 7:30pm) - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 3 pair ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 155cm - Base: 104cm Lifts: - Niseko Gondola - Upper Village Gondola (until 7:00pm) - Village Express (until 7:00pm) - Community Chair - Banzai Chair (until 7:00pm) - Morino Chair ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: - Number 1 pair - Number 2 pair - Quad ------------------ Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 20th March 2024. Night skiing is usually until 7:00pm at Hirafu, Hanazono, Village and until 7:30pm at Annupuri. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Wednesday 27th December 2023 Total snowfall at base so far 356cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 31 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (18th December) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 236cm reported on 20 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1006cm Posted on Friday 28th April 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. A fair amount of cloud around this morning, but I'd say it was fairly decent weather. We might get some rain showers at time over the weekend. The top Jumbo lift at Annupuri is closed today due to some 'safety and security work'. There's just over one week left to go, folks. --------------- Ski area information for Friday 28th April 2023 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day, weather permitting. Official snow depth numbers in brackets show the change since previous report. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu These runs remain available - Detour for beginners - Shirakaba - Center - Large - Boyo (part) - Holiday - Rinkan - Jumbo (upper only) - Dynamic - You need to get the gondola back down to base as all lower runs are closed Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 190cm - Base: 0cm Lifts: - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 Planned season: - Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu plans to be open until Sunday 7th May 2023 ------- Niseko Annupuri Kokusai These runs remain available: - Champion - Utopia - Silver - S-ji - Shirakaba - Paradise - Family - Junior Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 150cm - Base: 0cm Lifts: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 4 pair (closed today) Planned season: - Niseko Annupuri Kokusai plans to be open until Sunday 7th May 2023 Niseko Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Friday 28th April 2023 Total snowfall at base so far 1006cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 90 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (27th & 28th January, 6th February) November 2022 snowfall 17cm reported on 5 days December 2022 snowfall 336cm reported on 27 days January 2023 snowfall 332cm reported on 27 days February 2023 snowfall 289cm reported on 25 days March 2023 snowfall 32cm reported on 6 days April 2023 snowfall 0cm 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