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  • Niseko Now: Wednesday 16th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 901cm Posted on Wednesday 16th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. It's snowing now but not a whole lot to report, at least what I see and measured (which makes me really curious about the Avalanche Report today). But anyway, hopefully we'll get some cm today and in the coming days. Hmmm, it is a bit windy this morning and the southerly wind is affecting top lifts at the start of the day. Outside the weather meaning, everything feels so very calm and quiet. I can't think of many other words to use today, so I'll leave you until tomorrow and wish you a fine day. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -5℃, 15cm low pressure snow overnight. Moiwa 800m: -7℃, S8m/s, 15cm snowfall, snowdrift development with easterly wind. Annupuri 1150m: -7℃, heavy snowfall under 800m elevation, strong SE wind at 1000m elevation with poor visibility. Hirafu 1250m: -13℃, strong SE wind with poor visibility above 1000m elevation, heavy snowfall. Coastal data Bekei cape: S13m/s, Kamui cape: NE11m/s, 1006hPa, 1.0m waves. Heavy snowfall overnight as the low pressure system approaches slowly. Slopes above 1000m elevation have poor visibility with southerly storms. This current low pressure snowfall brings a lot of snow in a short time, when the snowfall exceeds 30cm, “flow-type” avalanches can occur on steep slopes. This type of avalanche is slow, less than 70km/s, but also occurs even in the forests. Be careful, as the snow increases, unstable slabs will develop and which can trigger high speed surface avalanches. As the wind and snow intensify, snowdrifts will develop rapidly with south easterly wind above 800m elevation and the risk of avalanche will increase. Snow in the tree runs is semi reset, it’s better not to go above the tree lines. The number of cracks in Hirafu/Hanazono area is increasing rapidly. Especially the crack in “Jackson” is getting bigger. Be careful falling into cracks. Most accidents occur during stormy conditions. Follow patrols instructions. Snow conditions change daily. ----- Planned ski area operations: Wednesday 16th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 385cm (-5cm) - Base: 210cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 328cm (-2cm) - Base: 248cm (-2cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 4cm - Base: 6cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (no change) - Base: 220cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 230cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Wednesday 16th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 901cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 72 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 184cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Monday 14th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 895cm Posted on Monday 14th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. I have some decent snowfall to report to you this morning. Just a short while back I measured 15cm, so there should be a very nice new layer to enjoy out there this morning. Looks like the next few days is going to bring us a mix of cloud, light snow at times and maybe a bit of sun at times. Wind should not be a problem. For the moment it's cloudy and snowing at times - coming down at quite a rate just now in some places. That probably won't last and it doesn't feel particularly cold out there this morning. The long weekend is now over and so we are back to normal weekday operations. That means that the Holiday lift at Hirafu and the Jumbo 3 lift at Annupuri are taking a rest. ----- It's Valentines Day, that most traditional of Japanese customs, dating right back to the Edo period when... oh, hold on, I might have got that wrong. Anyway, ladies, don't forget to hand out loads of chocolate to pretty much everyone. (Even some you don't like, like your boss. Save the nicer chocolate for guys you like). Blokes will need to do similar on 14th March for the reciprocal 'White Day'... yet another Japanese custom steeped in tradition and rituals, also dating back to the Edo period. Maybe. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -5℃, 15cm low pressure snow in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -7 ℃, NNW7-10m/s, 15cm new snow in last 12hrs, minor snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -8℃, N10m/s, 15cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1250m, -13℃, NE12m/s, 15cm new snow, snowdrift development. Benkei Cape NE9m/s. Cape Kamui; NNE4m/s, 1019hPa, wave 0.9m. Above 800m there has been some slow snowdrift development from wind and snow caused by a low pressure passing overnight. At dawn 15cm of low pressure snow had fallen. From observation and data the general avalanche risk is low. From the effects of the NE wind and snow plastering the upper mountain, there is a moderately high avalanche risk around 1200m on wind crusted and scored SE slopes like Kozan no Sawa side wall. If the crust breaks and avalanches on a steep slope it will take you away with it. Use caution. Snow in the forest is partially reset and good. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the Patrol's advice before exiting the gates. Niseko respects your freedom to ride out of bounds, but at the same time is concerned about everyone's safety. Please respect Niseko Rules. Be careful falling into cracks. Enjoy today but be careful. ----- Planned ski area operations: Monday 14th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 390cm (+15cm) - Base: 220cm (-10cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 20cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 337cm (+2cm) - Base: 257cm (+2cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (no change) - Base: 220cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 220cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Monday 14th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 895cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 71 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 178cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Sunday 13th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 880cm Posted on Sunday 13th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. After a couple of days of clearer skies, we are back to some fresh snow to report this morning. Yey! There's not a huge - amount just over 5cm - and perhaps some more at higher elevations, but that's not going to be enough to fill in all the tracks. The groomers should be nice this morning though. It is snowing lightly at the moment, though it's also quite bright in places and as you can see from the third photo below there is even some blue sky too. The sun is trying to break through over here in Hirafu too as I type this. Doesn't feel quite as cold this morning, though it's still -5C. (I suppose for some of you guys that is really, really cold!) I think it's time for some lovely Sunday morning toast. Highly recommended. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -5℃, 10cm low pressure snow in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -7 ℃, 15cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -7℃, strong west wind, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1250m, -8℃, strong west wind, snowdrift development. Benkei Cape WNW13m/s. Cape Kamui; SW19m/s, 1017hPa, wave 1.4m. Wind picked up from 8pm last night. A low pressure system passed overnight bringing some snowfall and minor snowdrift development. From tests the general avalanche risk is low this morning. However snowfall is expected to continue bringing an increase in avalanche risk on SE slopes this afternoon. Lots of avalanche accidents occur by snowdrifts fracturing from rider stimulation. Developing snowdrift slabs are unstable and can easily fracture on weak lines. Always be careful of surface avalanches when winds are above 15m/s. Do not stimulate knolls or cornices. The snowdrifts will stabilise when the wind drops. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrol's advice when going through the gates. The mountain is partially reset above 800m although tracks are still visible. Visibility is bad, be careful falling into cracks. From the last 2 days of sun expect a 12 Feb layer to form as a future avalanche fracture face. Snow conditions change daily, be careful of sudden weather changes. Is your beacon on? ----- Planned ski area operations: Sunday 13th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 375cm (-10cm) - Base: 230cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 2cm - Base: 2cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - Holiday Number 1 pair - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 335cm (-5cm) - Base: 255cm (-5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (no change) - Base: 220cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 220cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Sunday 13th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 880cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 70 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 163cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Thursday 10th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 7cm Snowfall at base this season 874cm Posted on Thursday 10th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here My oh my it was very cold overnight! It's a beautiful morning with blue sky and sunshine. Cold and calm with just a bit of cloud here and there, but blue is the main colour of the morning. We certainly haven't had many mornings like this during this season and so I'm sure this weather will bring out a few extra people. There's not a whole lot of snow on the forecasts just at the moment, so it appears we are going to be taking a few days break in the snowfall. I doubt many will be feeling hard done by because of that. Really beautiful. Life is good. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -10℃, 5cm snowfall in 12h, calm. Moiwa 800m: -10℃, light breeze, 10cm snowfall with 40cm snowdrifts from westerly wind. Annupur1150m: -11℃, light breeze, 15cm snowfall with 50cm snowdrifts from westerly wind, bad visibility. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -12℃, calm, good visibility. Coastal data Benkei cape: SSE3m/s, Kamui cape: NNW2m/s, 1024hPa, 0.6m waves. A high pressure system is sitting above Niseko, the pressure gradient is flat and the mountain/ocean weather is calm. There are no notable snowdrift developments and the snowpack is stable. The general avalanche risk is low. All gates will open. Listen to the ski patrol’s instructions. The avalanche risk may be low, but there will never be a safe winter mountain. Overconfidence will lead to accidents. Staying prudent is key to avoid them. Have a nice day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Thursday 10th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 410cm (no change) - Base: 250cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 20cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 365cm (+5cm) - Base: 282cm (-8cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 15cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (+20cm) - Base: 220cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 230cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Thursday 10th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 874cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 69 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 157cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Wednesday 9th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 16cm Snowfall at base this season 867cm Posted on Wednesday 9th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I know you come to these reports wanting to hear about fresh snow (and toast, of course), and this morning I have 16cm of it to report to you. I was out for a few hours yesterday afternoon when some very big flakes were falling from the skies. Very nice. There is even now some very (very) light snow falling in places, but it's a mostly a clearer kind of morning with blue skies among the remaining clouds. It's nice and sunny looking over towards Mt Yotei too. It should be another very good morning, and if the forecasts are correct we should be enjoying a fair bit of sunshine over the next couple of days. Yey. All lifts should be opening as planned this morning. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7℃, light wind, 30cm snowfall in 24h, 5cm in 12h. Moiwa800m: -8℃, W10m/s, 15cm snowfall, snowdrift development. Annupuri1150m: -8℃, W10m/s, 15cm snowfall, snowdrift development 60cm. Hirafu1250m: -14℃, NW10-15m/s, 10cm snowfall, snowdrift development with wind blown snow. Benkei cape: NNW12m/s, Kamui cape: WNW9m/s, 1021hPa, 0.9m waves. Strong wind is blowing at times as we are on the edge of a high pressure system, snowdrifts are slowly developing above 800m elevation. The overall avalanche risk is low based on the observation and weather data. All gates will open. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions and be prepared when you go out of bounds. Wearing a helmet and a beacon is not mandatory but we strongly advise you to do so. The cracks near gate 6 in Moiwa are developing. Be careful as it is not visible from above. A patrol had a scary moment while working yesterday. These cracks are formed as the snowpack is releasing its own tension. It does not mean it will immediately cause large-scale glide avalanches but this year may be different. It’s better to stay away from them. Do not enter strictly off limits areas such as Haru no Taki. The slabs in those south-facing slopes develop due to solar radiation, not due to the wind. The avalanche accident in 1998 occurred under similar circumstances. This information is issued for the people using chairlifts to ski the out of bounds areas. Beware of cracks and hidden tree-bombs and other obstacles. Have a nice day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Wednesday 9th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 410cm (no change) - Base: 245cm (+15cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 25cm - Base: 25cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 360cm (-5cm) - Base: 290cm (+7cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 25cm - Base: 30cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm (no change) - Base: 220cm (+10cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 15cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 230cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Wednesday 9th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 867cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 68 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 150cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Tuesday 8th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 22cm Snowfall at base this season 851cm Posted on Tuesday 8th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here 22cm of lovely light fresh overnight snowfall to report to you from base this morning. Beautiful. Top quality stuff too. It has been a generally cloudy start to the day over the mountains but there's some blue sky around too and the sun trying to break through. Might it clear up? Certainly feels like it might if the last half hour or so is any indication. Whatever we are due a few days of calm and possibly clearer weather conditions. Just as long as it stays cold, conditions should remain excellent. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7℃, light wind, 30cm snowfall in 12h. Moiwa800m: -11℃, WNW5m/s, 35cm snowfall, no snowdrift development. Annupuri1150m: -12℃, WNW6m/s, heavy snowfall in 12h. Hirafu1250m: -12℃, light breeze, 20cm snowfall with light development of snowdrifts. Benkei cape: NW8m/s, Kamui cape: W8m/s, 1019hPa, 0.8m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is flat. The coastal and mountain weather is calm. Cold airmass inflow over the warm sea of Japan is generating heavy snow-clouds. Heavy snowfall continues, 40+cm new snow fell in some areas between 8pm and dawn. The new snow is light crystal snow and is gently covering the trees. The wind below 1000m elavation stayed under 10m/s. There are not notable snowdrift developments and the general avalanche risk is low today. All gates will open. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Most old tracks are covered, however the new snow is so light, beware of hidden tree-bombs and other obstacles. Cracks and holes are present under the surface. Always be vigilant. Do not simultaneously ride the same slope and/or traverse across knolls and slopes under cornices, it only elevates the chances to trigger an avalanche. Avalanches sweep down the valley bottom, stay away from it. There is no guaranteed safety in this activity. Have a nice day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Tuesday 8th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 410cm (+15cm) - Base: 230cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 15cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 365cm (+15cm) - Base: 283cm (+15cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 32cm - Base: 32cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm (+10cm) - Base: 210cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 20cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 230cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Tuesday 8th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 851cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 67 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 134cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Monday 7th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 829cm Posted on Monday 7th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I have 10cm to report to you this morning since my last report, and it is still snowing now. Early morning has actually seen a few different looks. Earlier on it was actually quite bright; as I started putting together this report it was really snowing quite hard, but has eased off somewhat now. So here we are back to weekdays, so the Holiday pair at Hirafu and Jumbo 3 at Annupuri are going to be resting. (Those lifts not opening does not close off any courses of course). This last week or so has seen some very consistent snowfall. I like that 'about 20cm a day' kind of consistency. And there are some fab conditions for those able to be here to enjoy. I don't think we are expecting a lot of snow this week and we might even get to enjoy a few days of sun. ----- I notice that Niigata has had one of it's truly bonkers snow phases - over 100cm yesterday on the Yuzawa Now report! Mad. I'm curious to know how folks down there cope with all that at once. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7℃, calm, 5cm snowfall in 12h. Moiwa800m: -10℃, WNW8m/s, 10cm snowfall with snowdrifts throughout the area. Annupuri 1150m: -11℃, WNW10m/s, 10cm snowfall, snowdrifts and cornices developing. Hirafu 1250m: -12℃, 10cm snowfall, snowdrifts developing and bad visibility. Coastal data Benkei cape: NW9m/s, Kamui cape: NNW8m/s, 1015hPa, 0.9m waves. The isobars are spread out but still forming a wintery pressure distribution. The wind still blows at 10m/s, above 800m elevation with intermittent snowfall. Soft slabs are forming in places and cornices are growing slowly. The cornices can rapidly transmit impacts so caution is required around them, however, according to the morning observations, mountain and marine weather transition, the overall avalanche risk is relatively low today. All gates should open in the morning. Listen to the ski patrol’s advice. The new snow is thin, but old tracks are mostly covered and the snow in the tree runs is good. Beware of hidden tree-bombs and cracks. Many of the avalanche accidents occur during and just after storms. When wind is strong the avalanche risk tends to rise. Paying attention to the weather and snowfall transition is the most realistic avalanche prevention measure. Once the wind calms down, the snowdrifts stabilize, and all winds will eventually stop. There is an Aleutian proverb saying “The wind is not a river”. Rivers always flow, but winds eventually stop. The Aleutians are people who established an outstanding marine hunting culture in the harsh Bering Sea area. So much snow... have a good day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Monday 7th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 395cm (-5cm) - Base: 230cm (-10cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 15cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 350cm (no change) - Base: 268cm (-7cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 15cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 280cm (+10cm) - Base: 210cm (+10cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 25cm - Base: 25cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 295cm - Base: 240cm Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Monday 7th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 829cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 66 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 112cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Sunday 6th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 819cm Posted on Sunday 6th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. And the sun is out this morning. A modest amount of new fresh snowfall since yesterday and what feels like a calm start to this Sunday morning. Mt Yotei is looking all shy with a collection of fluffy clouds covering the top area. So it's nice weather and very nice snow conditions. Sounds like a good Sunday morning too. I'm going to make it even better with some toast now. More snow is on the way though by mid week there might be a spell of a few days or more of clearer conditions. I will keep my recap in the report due to what I believe is less people not checking out reports over a weekend. (Naughty!) ----- The 2021-2022 season so far: until the end January 2022 It’s time for the look back at January. There are some general non-snow related observations at the end, but let’s start with some snowy numbers. Here are my observed snowfall numbers for the month: 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: 442cm So I didn’t see as much as last season but more than the six previous seasons. I was able to post new snowfall (at base, of course) on an impressive 30 of the 31 days in January 2022. The only day with no new snowfall at base was 20th January. On a few days there was just a light dusting, but other that the month saw some nice consistent numbers. Particularly at the beginning of the month and towards the end. Here are my season-to-date numbers, from the beginning of this season to the end of January 2022: 2021/2022 season up to end of January 2021: 717cm 2020/2021 season up to end of January 2021: 797cm 2019/2020 season up to end of January 2020: 516cm 2018/2019 season up to end of January 2019: 702cm 2017/2018 season up to end of January 2018: 899cm 2016/2017 season up to end of January 2017: 445cm 2015/2016 season up to end of January 2016: 611cm 2014/2015 season up to end of January 2015: 806cm 2013/2014 season up to end of January 2014: 859cm 2012/2013 season up to end of January 2013: 979cm Here is how much of the total snowfall for a season we have already had by the end of January in previous seasons: 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 62% 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% If we have already received, say, 70% of the snowfall for this season, that means we should be looking at there being another 3m of so. (4m or 5m please!) Looking to this month, here is how much snowfall I have recorded during the month of February in the last nine winter seasons. The number in brackets is the amount of snowfall from the beginning of the season through the end of February. February 2021: 325cm (1122cm) February 2020: 143cm (659cm) February 2019: 198cm (900cm) February 2018: 299cm (1198cm) February 2017: 160cm (605cm) February 2016: 266cm (877cm) February 2015: 196cm (1002cm) February 2014: 178cm (1037cm) February 2013: 316cm (1295cm) Here we are in February 2022. The COVID-19 numbers in Japan have risen to levels previously not seen here (pretty much reflecting other countries in many respects) and we are officially under a ‘quasi state of emergency’. That is meant to last until 20th February, as things stand now. From what I can tell though, the general public don’t seem to be quite as bothered about it all this time. The almost universal mask wearing continues and I’d say that generally people are being cautious, but they are also going about their daily lives. That doesn’t really help with things like tourism though. Niseko remains uncharacteristically quiet, and the many people who rely on tourism are sitting tight (or certainly trying to) and remain hopeful that things will be improving soon. All the while, the people lucky enough to be here are able to enjoy the consistent snow that Niseko offers - just without the crowds. I’ll admit that there have been times in recent years when I have wished there were less people around, but I’m now definitely looking forward to having more of you here! People definitely create an atmosphere that (I feel) is somewhat lacking now. In other news that I have sort of hinted at before, SnowJapan is due to get a big update this month. When that happens, my reports will suddenly look rather different. However, what I do (and what I post) will remain the same. From what I have seen it is clear that a huge amount of time, love and care has been lavished on the site. I think we are all in for a real treat. O-tanoshimi-ni! ----- PS The Japan Meteorological Agency seems to have changed the way they publish numbers since last season. I’m not finding the same corresponding data in the new set-up - that’s why I am not posting those this season. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -8℃, calm, 15cm snow in 12h, 30cm in 24h. Moiwa 800m: -10℃, NW10m/s, 30cm snowfall with large 100cm snowdrift developments. Annupuri 1150m: -11℃, NW10m/s, 40cm snowfall with snowdrift development. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -12℃, strong westerly wind and large development of snowdrifts. Coastal data Benkei cape: NNW14m/s, Kamui cape: NW10m/s, 1007hPa, 1.5m waves. Mountain weather data on separate site. A weak winter pressure distribution is continuing, and snowdrifts have grown largely and rapidly in leeward slopes above 800m elevation between 1to 6pm yesterday. According to observations, the avalanche risk has settled in areas under 1000m elevations. Peak gates are scheduled to open. Seek advice from the ski patrol before stepping out of the gates. This information is issued for the people using chairlifts to ski the out of bounds areas. Overconfidence will result in accidents. Beware of sudden weather changes. ----- Planned ski area operations: Sunday 6th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 400cm (-15cm) - Base: 240cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - Holiday Number 1 pair - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 350cm (-10cm) - Base: 275cm (-8cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 20cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 270cm (no change) - Base: 200cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 25cm - Base: 25cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 230cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Sunday 6th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 819cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 65 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 102cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Saturday 5th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 23cm Snowfall at base this season 811cm Posted on Saturday 5th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's a lovely morning here. Nice and cold, and there's blue sky... and lots more fresh snow on the mountain and down on the ground in the village. Some thin cloud around some areas and it feels like they will clear. But having said that, the forecasts have more snow due, so who knows. Anyway, I wrote something... ----- The 2021-2022 season so far: until the end January 2022 It’s time for the look back at January. There are some general non-snow related observations at the end, but let’s start with some snowy numbers. Here are my observed snowfall numbers for the month: 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: 442cm So I didn’t see as much as last season but more than the six previous seasons. I was able to post new snowfall (at base, of course) on an impressive 30 of the 31 days in January 2022. The only day with no new snowfall at base was 20th January. On a few days there was just a light dusting, but other that the month saw some nice consistent numbers. Particularly at the beginning of the month and towards the end. Here are my season-to-date numbers, from the beginning of this season to the end of January 2022: 2021/2022 season up to end of January 2021: 717cm 2020/2021 season up to end of January 2021: 797cm 2019/2020 season up to end of January 2020: 516cm 2018/2019 season up to end of January 2019: 702cm 2017/2018 season up to end of January 2018: 899cm 2016/2017 season up to end of January 2017: 445cm 2015/2016 season up to end of January 2016: 611cm 2014/2015 season up to end of January 2015: 806cm 2013/2014 season up to end of January 2014: 859cm 2012/2013 season up to end of January 2013: 979cm Here is how much of the total snowfall for a season we have already had by the end of January in previous seasons: 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 62% 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% If we have already received, say, 70% of the snowfall for this season, that means we should be looking at there being another 3m of so. (4m or 5m please!) Looking to this month, here is how much snowfall I have recorded during the month of February in the last nine winter seasons. The number in brackets is the amount of snowfall from the beginning of the season through the end of February. February 2021: 325cm (1122cm) February 2020: 143cm (659cm) February 2019: 198cm (900cm) February 2018: 299cm (1198cm) February 2017: 160cm (605cm) February 2016: 266cm (877cm) February 2015: 196cm (1002cm) February 2014: 178cm (1037cm) February 2013: 316cm (1295cm) Here we are in February 2022. The COVID-19 numbers in Japan have risen to levels previously not seen here (pretty much reflecting other countries in many respects) and we are officially under a ‘quasi state of emergency’. That is meant to last until 20th February, as things stand now. From what I can tell though, the general public don’t seem to be quite as bothered about it all this time. The almost universal mask wearing continues and I’d say that generally people are being cautious, but they are also going about their daily lives. That doesn’t really help with things like tourism though. Niseko remains uncharacteristically quiet, and the many people who rely on tourism are sitting tight (or certainly trying to) and remain hopeful that things will be improving soon. All the while, the people lucky enough to be here are able to enjoy the consistent snow that Niseko offers - just without the crowds. I’ll admit that there have been times in recent years when I have wished there were less people around, but I’m now definitely looking forward to having more of you here! People definitely create an atmosphere that (I feel) is somewhat lacking now. In other news that I have sort of hinted at before, SnowJapan is due to get a big update this month. When that happens, my reports will suddenly look rather different. However, what I do (and what I post) will remain the same. From what I have seen it is clear that a huge amount of time, love and care has been lavished on the site. I think we are all in for a real treat. O-tanoshimi-ni! ----- PS The Japan Meteorological Agency seems to have changed the way they publish numbers since last season. I’m not finding the same corresponding data in the new set-up - that’s why I am not posting those this season. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -8℃, light snowfall, 30cm snowfall in 12h. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, light wind, 45cm snowfall. Annupuri 1150m: -12℃, WNW5m/s, 45-50cm snowfall with light crystal snow. Hirafu 1250m: -12℃, W5m/s, 50cm snowfall, no significant snowdrift development. Coastal data Bekei cape: N9m/s, Kamui cape: WNW3m/s, 1004hPa, 0.8m waves. The isobars are wide apart, and calm both at sea and in the mountains. The mountains are covered with 30-50cm light crystal snow from top to the bottom. Due to the small wind affected snow, there is no drastic development of slabs, according to the observation and weather data, the general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates will open from early morning. There is a risk of surface slab avalanches due to stimulating the soft slabs on the slopes around 1200m elevation. Be careful in areas like the Kozan no Sawa side wall. Listen to the ski patrol advice when going out the gates. Cracks are beginning to form in many places. There are no immediate avalanches but do not go near them. The cracks are becoming hidden crevasses with this heavy snow. Be careful dropping into creeks. The cracks are not visible from above. Be careful of irregularities in the slopes. Snow is deep but in excellent condition. Hope today will be a good day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Saturday 5th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 415cm (+15cm) - Base: 235cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 40cm - Base: 40cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - Holiday Number 1 pair - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 360cm (+10cm) - Base: 283cm (+13cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 35cm - Base: 35cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 270cm (+10cm) - Base: 200cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 25cm - Base: 25cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 200cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Saturday 5th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 811cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 64 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 94cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Friday 4th February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 21cm Snowfall at base this season 788cm Posted on Friday 4th February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here More good news this morning. Moderate snowfall in places right now with another decent layer of fine snow on the ground. I just measured 21cm; ski areas reporting up to 40cm in upper areas (Hanazono). Lovely light and fluffy snow too. Oh yes. I said 'in places' with the snowfall because it's not as much over towards Village and Annupuri. It looks quite bright at the base of Hirafu at the moment and I can even see some blue sky (not much). I feel there's been a lot of that kind of pattern lately... All (planned to open) lifts and areas open, and the gates should be open too. Anyway, more snow is likely today and through the end of the weekend, so there's probably going to be regular refreshes and conditions should be excellent for the weekend. ----- I'm going to get to my January review today and will post it tomorrow. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7℃, light wind, 15cm snowfall in 12h, 40cm in 24h. Moiwa800m: -10℃, WNW5m/s, 35cm snowfall, small snowdrift development. Annupuri1150m: -12℃, WNW8m/s, 40cm snowfall snowdrifts developing slowly. Hirafu1250m: -12℃, moderate westerly wind, 30cm snowfall, good visibility. Coastal data Bekei cape: NW13m/s, Kamui cape: -9℃, 1010hPa, 1.1m waves. The winter atmospheric pressure distribution continues. The avalanche risk is lowering in areas under 1100m elevation. A uniform light crystal snow is blanketing the slopes under 1000m. All gates will open. Listen to the ski patrol advice when going out the gates. Beacon and helmet are not mandatory, but are strongly advised to wear. The cracks in the lower Mikaeri area are getting bigger. It is not likely that these cracks slide, but it is highly recommended not to get close to them. Beware of falling in the cracks. The avalanche risk remains high in the Backbowl sidewall slopes. Better give that area a little more time until the slabs stabilize. These double black diamond slopes should not be ridden easily without considering the risks involved. Avalanches sweep down the valley, stay away from there. Beware of sudden weather changes. The Snow is amazing today, but conditions will never be 100% safe. We strongly hope there won’t be any accidents. ----- Planned ski area operations: Friday 4th February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 400cm (+10cm) - Base: 230cm (+10cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 35cm - Base: 35cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 350cm (+10cm) - Base: 270cm (+10cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 40cm - Base: 32cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 260cm (no change) - Base: 195cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 20cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 200cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Friday 4th February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 788cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 63 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 71cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Thursday 3rd February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 22cm Snowfall at base this season 767cm Posted on Thursday 3rd February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's snowing very nicely this morning and has been coming down at quite the rate. I was just outside and measured 22cm, but as you can see, both Hirafu and Hanazono are reporting up to 35cm. Nice. Visibility at the start of the day is pretty limited at Hirafu, better over at Hanazono. And to top all that off, consistent snowfall is still forecast through into next week. If you want clear blue skies, Niseko is not your place right now! Should be good out there, but for those of you lucky enough to be here and enjoy it, do take special care. Not exactly sure why but at the start of the day the Niseko Gondola (at Niseko Village) and their top lift are not moving. Other top lifts seem to be opening as planned. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7℃, 20cm snowfall with wind. Moiwa 800m: -9℃, W10m/s, 30cm snowfall with moderate snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -12℃, W15m/s, 30cm snowfall, snowdrift and cornice development. Hirafu 1250m: -13℃, 30cm snowfall, snowdrift development. Coastal data: NWW14m/s, Kamui cape: W9m/s, 1011hPa, 1.1m waves. Snowfall picked up around 5am and dumped 10cm in an hour. Wind is blowing pretty strong up high, making cornices and snowdrifts develop. There is no drastic development of slabs, however the snowdrifts above 1000m are unstable as they grow and the avalanche risk will remain high throughout the day. The recent snowfall resembles the rain in the tropical monsoon. Gates opening is yet to be determined. Follow the patrol’s instructions. This information is issued for accidents prevention in the resort's out of bounds area, and is not intended for winter mountaineering. There is no information, or even rules in true wild mountains. In Niseko, where unspecified large numbers of experienced and inexperienced visitors come, there is a need for some information and some kind of rules in order to minimize accidents. Please respect the Niseko Rules if you’re using the chairlifts to ski out of bounds. The snow is good but visibility is bad, Beware of cracks and maybe a good idea to bring a spare set of goggles. ----- Planned ski area operations: Thursday 3rd February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 390cm (+5cm) - Base: 220cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 35cm - Base: 35cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+28cm since Tuesday) - Base: 260cm (+23cm since Tuesday) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 35cm - Base: 32cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 260cm (no change) - Base: 195cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 20cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 290cm - Base: 200cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Thursday 3rd February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 767cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 62 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 50cm 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

  • Niseko Now: Wednesday 2nd February 2022

    Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 19cm Snowfall at base this season 745cm Posted on Wednesday 2nd February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here The snow haul since my last report here at base is a pleasing 19cm and with probably more than that in higher areas (indeed Hirafu are reporting 30cm) I imagine the conditions should be really very good this morning. It's cloudy at the moment and actually quite bright in places, with light snow lingering in others. The sun might even say hi. Consistent snow is likely through into next week. The gondola at Hanazono is out there on the cables and it's moving but not opening at 8:30am, perhaps just a delay. (Hanazono official numbers not updated yet at time of report). Sorry I neglected to take out the 'weekend only' lifts from the report list yesterday. My bad. ----- It's the Chinese New Year period now, isn't it. Happy New Year. It's amazing thinking about it - that period is usually one of the busiest of the season here, and it's a huge event for businesses. It shows just how much things are different right now that I almost didn't know about it... ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7℃, 10cm of crystal snowfall. Moiwa 800m: -8.9℃, light snow wind WNW 9.9m/s, 30cm snowfall, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -11℃, westerly 4.5m/s, 10m/s gusty wind at times, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1250m: -13℃, Westerly light snow wind with 40cm snowfall, light snowdrift development. Coastal data: N9m/s, Kamui cape: NNW9m/s, 1012hPa, 0.8m waves. Slightly heavy snowfall with slow development of snowdrifts on the east side of the mountain range (Hirafu side) until dawn under a weak winter pressure pattern. Based on the observation and weather data, avalanche risk in the out of bounds slopes below 30 degrees is low. The treeruns under 900m elevation is blanketed with little wind affected light and fast crystal snow. All the peak gates will be open. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. It’s better not to stimulate the south-east facing slopes at the Backbowl side wall (Kozan no sawa) at around 1200m elevation. Large slabs have formed in those slopes and risks of thick and wide avalanches are still present. Avalanches sweep down the valley. Do not stay in the gully bottom. Weather conditions are different below and above 1000m elevation. Be careful. Do not stimulate knolls. Stay away from cornices. Snow in the treeruns remains good. Have you switched your beacon on? Having a beacon may save yours and other’s lives. Low visibility at times. Have a good day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Wednesday 2nd February 2022 The below snow depth and snowfall data is manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day (nature might intervene). Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 385cm (+25cm) - Base: 215cm (+15cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 30cm - Base: 30cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Ace Family quad - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Hirafu Gondola - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 312cm (-) - Base: 237cm (-) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: -cm - Base: -cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 260cm (+10cm) - Base: 190cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open for night skiing until 7:30pm] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 280cm - Base: 200cm Planned lift operations (subject to weather conditions): - Niseko Gondola - Community Chair [* open for night skiing until 7:00pm] - Banzai Chair - Wonderland Chair Niseko Now 2021-2022 season Data as of Wednesday 2nd February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 745cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 61 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (23rd December) November 2021 snowfall 85cm reported on 6 days December 2021 snowfall 307cm reported on 23 days January 2022 snowfall 325cm reported on 30 days February 2022 snowfall 28cm reported on 2 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

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