Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 1199cm Posted on Monday 22nd March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A bit of a dusting greets us this morning and there's perhaps a few cm of snow on the slopes. Light snow is falling as I write this and it is currently just around 0C. The Annupuri Gondola doesn't seem to be moving this morning but other than that lifts are starting the day as planned. Update just before I post this: all top lifts are now on hold. Doh! ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: 6:25am Benkei cape: NW17m/s, Kamui cape: W13m/s, 998hPa, 1.6m waves. Hanazono 1000m: -1.0℃, ESE2.9.0m/s. Hanazono 720m: -2.2℃, ENE speed n/a. Moiwa 800m: -2.6℃, WNW8.9m/s. Annupuri　1100m: -5.0℃, WSW8.8m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -4.5℃, SSW0.4m/s?. Mizuno no Sawa top: -3.8℃, WSW speed n/a. Kutchan town: 1.6℃, W7.3m/s, 1cm snowfall in 24h, 147cm snow depth. Moiwa base: -1.5℃, high winds, snowstorm, poor visibility. We have been loosing about 10cm of snow daily at the base but today we have a snowstorm. Above 800m snow drift development and mid winter conditions are observed. From the snowfall transition, observation and data, on leeward cornice and knoll slopes above 800m the avalanche risk is increasing. The snowdrifts (wind slab)that are developing due to the strong winds are not consolidating as they grow. No matter what the condition of the older snow is, developing snowdrifts can fracture from an external stimuli and cause an avalanche. That's why many accidents occur during wind storms. Niseko is working to prevent accidents based on this concept. Gates will be closed to prevent accidents. When the wind drops, the risk drops. Sometimes the wind meters get frozen in damp conditions and data is unavailable. In these conditions frostbite is a danger. The mountain is moving into spring with repeated freeze thaw cycles. To avoid getting caught in a full depth avalanche don't climb up creek gullies or ride down into valley bottoms. Always take a helmet, beacon and rescue equipment. ----- Planned ski area operations: Monday 22nd March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 1cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 470cm (+0cm) - Base: 195cm (-5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 Open until (planned): - Wednesday 5th May ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 2cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (+0cm) - Base: 195cm (-3cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: All 3 lifts Open until (planned): - Sunday 28th March ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 3cm - Base: 3cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 320cm (+0cm) - Base: 185cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Jumbo 2 and 3 rested Open until (planned): - Wednesday 5th May ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 320cm (+3cm) - Base: 192cm (-2cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland Open until (planned): - Sunday 4th April [may re-open 1st-5th May] ----- Night skiing has now finished for the 2020-2021 season Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Monday 22nd March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1199cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 92 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 77cm reported on 10 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 1198cm Posted on Sunday 21st March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. Some very light snow is falling at the moment and there's a dusting-like thin layer around, enough for me to award the report today with a cm. Ski areas are reporting up to 3cm on the mountain. We'll probably be lucky if it remains as snow, as forecasts show rain. Lots of cloud about this morning. And, it's windy. A southerly one as I write this the top lifts at Hanazono, Hirafu and Annupuri are showing purple (on hold). Gondolas all appear to be moving. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: 6:25am Benkei cape: S14m/s, Kamui cape: ESE3m/s, 1012hPa, 0.6m waves. Hanazono 1000m: -5.7℃, SSE11.0m/s. Hanazono 720m: -3.2℃, SSW8.1m /s. Moiwa 800m: -3.8℃, ESE3.2m/s. Annupuri1100m: -6.0℃, SE3.4m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -5.6℃, SSW3.1m/s. Mizuno no Sawa top: -5.2℃, SSE3.1m/s. Kutchan town: 1.0℃, E4m/s, 1cm snowfall in 24h, 152cm snowdepth. Moiwa base: -2.0℃, 2cm new snow, calm, cloudy and good visibility. A strong southerly wind is blowing and the visibility is poor due to thick fog above 1100m elevation as a low pressure system is approaching. Peak gates 2 & 3 will be shut. Other gates opening are to be determined. Please respect the ski patrol’s decision. Some snowdrifts have developed above 1000m elevation with the strong southerly wind. Shallow surface avalanches should be expected at the north face, east and west ridge (Higashi-One & Nishi-One) slopes. Sunlight is weak today and the surface undulations are difficult to see. Please beware of cracks and slip-drops. Some fresh snow can be found but the conditions are tricky and variable. Be cautious not to fall, hit trees and get injured. Boundary ropes are there for good reasons and should not be crossed thoughtlessly. One track under the rope would lead many others to follow it and increase the chances of accidents. Please respect the Niseko Rules. It is strongly recommended to wear a helmet and carry avalanche equipment. ----- Planned ski area operations: Sunday 21st March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 3cm - Base: 3cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 470cm (-5cm) - Base: 200cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 7 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Holiday 1, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4, Swinging Monkey Open until (planned): - Wednesday 5th May ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (+0cm) - Base: 198cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 Open until (planned): - Sunday 28th March ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 3cm - Base: 3cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 320cm (+0cm) - Base: 185cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 6 lifts today - all lifts Open until (planned): - Wednesday 5th May ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 317cm (+0cm) - Base: 194cm (-1cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland Open until (planned): - Sunday 4th April [may re-open 1st-5th May] ----- Night skiing has now finished for the 2020-2021 season Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Sunday 21st March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1198cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 91 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 76cm reported on 9 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 1197cm Posted on Wednesday 17th March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hey, it's snowing! It doesn't feel like full on winter, but definitely more winter-y than it has been of late. And there is even a few cm on the ground with Hirafu and Hanazono both reporting 5cm. As we start the day the top lifts at Hirafu, Village and Annupuri - as well as the Annupuri gondola - are not opening as planned. You guessed it, pesky wind. The Niseko Village gondola is moving, but at a reduced speed. Hirafu Gondola open as planned. Temperatures should keep about where they are over the coming week, so it's not heating up just yet. There is still a lot to enjoy for the people able to be here. (Though perhaps not this bit: 'The current snowfall is mixed with yellow sand and tar'!) Quiet and peaceful... ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: 6:25am Benkei cape: NW18m/s. Kamui Cape: SW14m/s, 1004hPa, 1.6m waves. Hanazono 1000m: -7.1℃, ENE3.3m/s. Hanazono 720m: -4.1℃, WNW5.1m/s. Moiwa 800m: -4.7℃, W5.8m/s. Annupuri 1100m: -7.5℃, W7.4m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -7.1℃, WSW4.3m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -6.2℃, WSW speed n/a. Kutchan town: -0.9℃, SSW4.9m/s, no new snowfall, 163cm snow depth. Moiwa base -3.0℃, 3cm snowfall, intermittent snow, poor visibility. Following the passing of the low pressure system the pressure gradient has increased, there is 3cm of snowfall at the base and 15cm of wind affected wet snow, mixed with hail, above 600m. 30cm soft slabs around knolls are observed at 800m. Above 1000m there are strong northerly winds, lift operations are effected and gate openings undecided. From observation and the snowfall transition, leeward snow drifts are becoming slabs. If snowdrift thickness exceeds 40cm, the avalanche risk on cornice slopes and knolls will become high. Avoid cornices and knolls when dropping in from ridge lines. Ride one by one and avoid the gully bottoms. Today's snow is unexpectedly good. Be careful hitting trees. If a surface avalanche fractures less than 50cm and you are wearing a beacon, there is a good chance of rescue and survival. Of course there are many factors in play, like the terrain, but because the debris impact is lower and a burial likely to be shallower, chances are good if you have a beacon on. Try not to trigger them in the first place though. Most avalanches are triggered by humans. The current snowfall is mixed with yellow sand and tar. The snow surface under this new “stop” snow is rough. Enjoy the new snow but be careful. Wear a helmet. ----- Planned ski area operations: Wednesday 17th March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 470cm (+5cm) - Base: 205cm (+5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 Open until (planned): - Wednesday 5th May ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 303cm (-8cm) - Base: 205cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 Open until (planned): - Sunday 28th March ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 3cm - Base: 3cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 320cm (+0cm) - Base: 190cm (-10cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Jumbo 2 and 3 rested Open until (planned): - Wednesday 5th May ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 320cm (-11cm) - Base: 197cm (-9cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland Open until (planned): - Sunday 4th April [may re-open 1st-5th May] ----- Night skiing has now finished for the 2020-2021 season Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Wednesday 17th March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1197cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 90 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 75cm reported on 8 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 1194cm Posted on Thursday 11th March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A few cm to add on from yesterday morning. After that less than lovely start, things did clear up during the day, thankfully, and this morning we are greeted with some beautiful clear blue skies. The wind is a bit of a downer still but at least the gondolas are starting the day. As of 8:30am the top lifts at Hirafu, Village and Annupuri are on hold. All other (planned) lifts running. There is quite a lot of clear skies on the current forecasts, but I see a bit of snow there in the first part of next week. Interesting to see how that will turn out. ----- Planned closing dates for the ski areas are as follows, subject to change of course. Niseko HANAZONO - Sunday 28th March Niseko Village - Sunday 4th April (may re-open 1st-5th May) Niseko Annupuri - Wednesday 5th May Niseko Grand Hirafu - Wednesday 5th May I haven't heard any talk of possible changes so far. Hopefully it will go as planned. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:WSW6m/s. Cape Kamui: SSW17m/s, 1023hPa, wave 1.4m. Hanazono 1000m: n/a. Hanazono 720: -3.5℃, W4.8m/s. Moiwa 800m: -4.5℃, WNW6.2m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-7.9℃, W9.7m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -7.0℃, SW5.6m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -6.3℃, W6.1m/s. Kutchan Town: -10.4℃, E1.5m/s, 6cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 188cm. Moiwa Base 300m: -6℃, no new snow in last 12hrs, clear. There is no snow quality/snowdrift stability data available this morning from the Moiwa Mikkaeri site. Climbers and out of bounds riders please refer to the automatic data above. Peak gates are expected to be open. ----- Planned ski area operations: Thursday 11th March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 470cm (-20cm) - Base: 220cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 325cm (-5cm) - Base: 225cm (-5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 320cm (-20cm) - Base: 200cm (-10cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - all apart from Jumbo 2 and 3 ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 341cm (+5cm) - Base: 220cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland ----- Night skiing has now finished for the 2020-2021 season Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Thursday 11th March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1194cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 89 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 72cm reported on 7 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 1191cm Posted on Wednesday 10th March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is certainly a very different looking morning than yesterday. The good news this morning is that it is snowing and there is a thin layer in base areas. (It's not peak winter quality snow and a bit... wet... but certainly better than full on rain). It's a rather nasty kind of morning. Fog and poor visibility in places, wind. Only lower base lifts are operating at the start the morning - no gondolas moving; it's rather limited. Beyond today calmer and clearer skies are due once again so we should be back to more like normal. It is a perfect morning for some good coffee and toast. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:NW14m/s. Cape Kamui: WNW15m/s, 1008hPa, wave 1.5m. Hanazono 1000m: n/a. Hanazono 720: -2.8℃, WSW5.2m/s(6.00am/22m/s). Moiwa 800m: -3.2℃, W8.9m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-5.4℃, WSW12.6m/s(6.00am/28m/s). Mizuno no Sawa Top: -4.6℃, WSW7.3m/s. Kutchan Town: 0.1℃, S4.5m/s, 4cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 188cm. Moiwa Base 300m: -2℃, 10cm of wet snowfall, poor visibility. There is stormy weather with the passing of a low pressure front at 2.00am with heavy crushed crystals of low pressure snowfall. Visibility above 800m is poor due to heavy fog and high winds. From observation snow drifts are fracturing at 40cm on 9 March layer. The avalanche risk on steep leeward slopes above 600m, knolls and under liftlines is high. Peak gates will be closed. Although the wind and snow are expected to drop off in early afternoon, from the snowfall transition and data evaluation the avalanche risk will remain high everywhere on the mountain for the rest of the day. A W20m/s blizzard is blowing above 1000m, best not to go out in that today. The isobars will space out tomorrow. Isobars never lie. Spring is beginning in the mountains. To avoid getting hit by a huge full-thickness avalanche, stay out of the valleys in the bottom of Osawa and Kozan no Sawa at Annupuri. Wet snow is piled up on the groomed runs. The snow off piste is heavy but might be interesting. The trees are reset and should be fun to ride. Be careful hitting trees though. Make plans according to the conditions. ----- Planned ski area operations: Wednesday 10th March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 490cm (+10cm) - Base: 220cm (+5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 7cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+5cm) - Base: 230cm (+5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - all apart from Jumbo 2 and 3 ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 341cm (+0cm) - Base: 220cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland ----- Night skiing has now finished for the 2020-2021 season. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Wednesday 10th March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1191cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 88 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 69cm reported on 6 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 1187cm Posted on Monday 8th March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning there is just a think layer of snow to report. Fast moving cloud at the early on with some patches of blue sky. (Are they patches, or are the clouds the patches?). Visibility is good and looks like it will be improving with more blue sky to see over the last 15 minutes or so. And lifts should be moving too. It's a Monday morning so a few lifts are rested (notably the Swinging Monkey and Holiday at Hirafu and Jumbo 2 and 3 at Annupuri). And... night skiing is now over for the season. Like many things this season, that happened kind of quietly. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:WNW8m/s. Cape Kamui: SSW10m/s, 1022hPa, wave 1.3m. Hanazono 1000m: -9.0℃, ESE4.8m/s. Hanazono 720: -6.0℃, S2.8m/s. Moiwa 800m: -7.2℃, W2.1m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-9.7℃, W7.8m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -9.1℃, SW4.5m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -8.7℃, WSW4.2m/s. Kutchan Town: -4.2℃, ESE1.4m/s, 4cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 1.4m. Moiwa Base 300m: -6.0℃, 5cm new snow in last 12hrs, light wind, sunny. 5-10cm of new snow fell at 800m overnight. Influence by the wind is small and there is only a little snowdrift development. The snow is light. From observation, the avalanche risk below 1100m is low. Surface avalanches are more likely to occur on slopes where the wind has rapidly formed slabs. There is a minor degree of slabbing today. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrol’s advice and prepare before going out of bounds. Wear a beacon and helmet. To avoid getting caught in a large avalanche do not ride in the valley bottoms of Osawa and Kozan no Sawa. Cracks are starting to open, be careful falling in. They can be deep and narrow. Due to cracks opening up in Mizuno no Sawa area, Gate 11 will be closed. The Patrol will continue avalanche control work in the area. Do not duck the ropes to enter Mizuno no Sawa or Haru no Taki. The snow is still shallow enough to hit the bottom, but better than yesterday. On steep slopes you can make a big spray though. Be careful crashing and falling. You can't win against a tree. Have a good day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Monday 8th March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 490cm (+10cm) - Base: 220cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 3cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+0cm) - Base: 230cm (-5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - all apart from Jumbo 2 and 3 ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 341cm (+11cm) - Base: 220cm (+10cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland ----- Night skiing has now finished for the 2020-2021 season. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Monday 8th March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1187cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 87 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 65cm reported on 5 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 1183cm Posted on Sunday 7th March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. I have a bit of fresh snow to report to you this Sunday morning. Nice way to start. Especially when winds aren't causing lifts to stop moving - all scheduled to be open as planned at the start of the day. It feels a bit colder still this morning and there is a lot of cloud around. There's already some breaks in said clouds and even some sunshine in places, and there does look to be a good chance of some sun today. It would be appropriate wouldn't it. Being Sunday and all. But. Having said that, it is still snowing over here at Hanazono. (I am today writing the report from said location). So we have some mixed weather around our mountains this morning. With the fresh snow I think it should be interesting conditions out there this morning. Sporadic snow at times over the next few days, unlikely to be considerable. I think of any fresh snow as a bonus from now on. Who doesn't like a bonus? :) I hope you have a good Sunday. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:NNW7m/s. Cape Kamui: WNW3m/s, 1029hPa, wave 0.9m. Hanazono 1000m: -8.7℃, NNW5.6m/s. Hanazono 720: -10.8℃, NNW2.9m/s. Moiwa 800m: -10.7℃, WNW5.9m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-14.2℃, WNW3.2m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -13.6℃, WNW2.7m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -12.5℃, WNW2.5m/s. Kutchan Town: -8.5℃, N0.6m/s, 7cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 197cm. Moiwa Base 300m: -6.0℃, 5cm new snow in last 24hrs, light wind, calm, sunny. We are under a high pressure system, the wind and snow have eased, there is 20-30cm of snowdrift development leeward slopes above 700mand the slopes are reset. From tests, snowdrifts have stabilised and the avalanche risk is low on leeward slopes 800-1000m. Peak gates incl Moiwa are expected to be open, please follow the patrol’s instructions. There is a 6Mar layer under the fresh snow and thin enough in some areas to bottom out on. Also it is possible to trigger 40cm surface avalanches by stimulating knolls. The snow is good but you will hit the bottom. Be careful. To avoid full depth avalanches stay out of the valley bottoms. Niseko’s full depth avalanche season starts early if conditions are right. Watch out for little signs like cracks. If you are not in the area there will be no accident. Take care around Osawa, Kozan No Sawa, HigashiOne 3rd creek, Oono no Sawa and Goshiki side of Nishi One Chinpoko Rock there could be people below you. Groomers are in fantastic condition. Is your beacon on? Helmet? Emergency supplies? Following unknown tracks can lead you to getting lost. Be careful of a sudden change in weather. Winter will last a little longer. ----- Planned ski area operations: Sunday 7th March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 480cm (+10cm) - Base: 220cm (+10cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 7 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday 1, King Quad 3, King 4, Swinging Monkey - Night skiing: Ace Center Four quad (every day) and Ace Family quad (Saturdays only at the moment) ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+4cm) - Base: 235cm (+9cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 - There is no night skiing at Hanazono ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 3cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 6 lifts today - all - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift operates for night skiing ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland - Community Chair lift operates for night skiing ----- Night time operations are available in the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas until 7th March 2021. There is no night skiing in the Niseko HANAZONO area. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Sunday 7th March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1183cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 86 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 61cm 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 2cm Snowfall at base this season 1177cm Posted on Saturday 6th March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It feels colder this morning and we have some snow falling. I'd say right now it's somewhere between light and moderate. Definitely feels more like winter after a mild day yesterday. Lifts at all areas apart from Annupuri appear to be starting the day as planned. At the time of writing the gondola as well as top lifts over there is on hold. As you can see from the images below, away from the mountain there's some blue sky. Perhaps changeable weather today... ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:NNE11m/s. Cape Kamui: NE6m/s, 1020hPa, wave 2.3m. Hanazono 1000m: -10.0℃, NW6.8m/s. Hanazono 720: -7.6℃, NNW4.8m/s. Moiwa 800m: -7.8℃, WNW8.1m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-10.4℃, NNW7.0m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -9.72℃, NNW5.1m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -9.0℃, NNW2.5m/s. Kutchan Town: -4.1℃, 1cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 194cm. Moiwa Base 300m: -6.0℃, refrozen, moderate wind, no new snow, good visibility. Following the passing of the front at 10pm last night a north to westerly wind picked up and the temperate dropped. Below 600m the snow surface is re-frozen, above 800m the “stop” snow from yesterday has changed but it is still easy to dig in to. There has been minor snow drift development from wind blown snow. The wind is expected to drop after noon when the isobars start to space out. The snow condition is shallow and not so good but it's always good to get out on the hill. From now into spring the possibility of deep surface or full depth avalanches is increasing. Avalanches in May are easier to identify because they show signs of cracks or block collapses, however during this transition period between winter/spring there are no easily identifiable signs. An avalanche may occur at the same time as the crack forms or it may occur in the early hours when temps are coldest. To avoid accidents try to stay out of the valley bottoms. No people - no accident. Be careful on Goshiki faces of Annupuri west ridge. Full depth avalanches have pushed down to the guard rails on the road in the past. Gate opening yet to be decided. Please follow the patrol's decisions. REPEAT- Stay out of the valley bottoms. Have a good weekend. ----- Planned ski area operations: Saturday 6th March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 470cm (-10cm) - Base: 210cm (-10cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 7 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday 1, King Quad 3, King 4, Swinging Monkey - Night skiing: Ace Center Four quad (every day) and Ace Family quad (Saturdays only at the moment) ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 2cm - Base: 1cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 326cm (-9cm) - Base: 226cm (-18cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 - There is no night skiing at Hanazono ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 6 lifts today - all - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift operates for night skiing ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (-10cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Village Express, Community, Banzai, Wonderland - Community Chair lift operates for night skiing ----- Night time operations are available in the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas until 7th March 2021. There is no night skiing in the Niseko HANAZONO area. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Saturday 6th March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1177cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 85 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 55cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 34cm Snowfall at base this season 1175cm Posted on Wednesday 3rd March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Light snow is still (just about) falling but it is increasingly bright in some directions - even some blue sky showing through in places. There is also another very good layer of fresh snow out there this morning. With a good chance of the blue skies winning out as the morning goes on, it should be a fine day to be out and about. Do be sure to read the avalanche report (below). Unfortunately... yes, wind. We seemed to be doing well re: wind earlier in the season but it has definitely been more of an issue in recent weeks. As of 8:30am top lifts and the gondolas at Hirafu and Annupuri aren't moving. However, they might well get open - delays are being mentioned at Hirafu, where only the Family quad is open at the start of the day, so fingers crossed more might open. It should remain cold today. Milder temperatures are due tomorrow with a good chance of one of those beautiful clear sunny mornings. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report: Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:N12m/s. Cape Kamui: E2m/s, 1024hPa, wave 1.7m. Hanazono 1000m: -9.8℃, NNW9.7m/s. Hanazono 720: -10.0℃, NNE5.5m/s. Moiwa 800m: -9.8℃, NNW3.1m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-13.0℃, NNW6.1m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -12.3℃, NNE3.4m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -11.5℃, NNE2.9m/s. Kutchan Town: -5.9℃, 35cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 235cm. Moiwa Base 300m: -6.0℃, light wind, snow, good visibility, 15cm of crystal snow from dawn. From 4am the wind dropped and snowdrift development eased, 15cm of crystal snowfall fell from dawn. The intense low pressure yesterday caused major snow drift development, up to 250cm in some locations. Snow drifts are an aggregate of crushed low pressure snow and from observation slabs are heavy, unstable and 150cm in depth. Snow drifts have not consolidated and have been collapsing under the grooming machines which has significantly delayed getting everything groomed. As of 6am the wind has dropped, however the avalanche risk will remain high at all elevations and aspects for the next 24hrs. The risk of large scale surface avalanches triggered by natural cornice or snowdrift collapse continues. Do not wait under open slopes or in valley bottoms. Avalanches are a natural occurrence, they only become accidents when people are involved. Be careful out there. ----- Planned ski area operations: Wednesday 3rd March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 490cm (+20cm) - Base: 225cm (-5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 - Night skiing: Ace Center Four quad (every day) and Ace Family quad (Saturdays only at the moment) ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 23cm - Base: 22cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 350cm (+10cm) - Base: 265cm (+23cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 - There is no night skiing at Hanazono ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Jumbo 2 and 3 rested - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift operates for night skiing ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+0cm) - Base: 220cm (+6cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Community, Banzai, Wonderland - Community Chair lift operates for night skiing ----- Night time operations are available in the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas until 7th March 2021. There is no night skiing in the Niseko HANAZONO area. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Wednesday 3rd March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1175cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 84 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 53cm 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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 19cm Snowfall at base this season 1141cm Posted on Tuesday 2nd March 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Snow, wind, low visibility... it's one of those mornings, with all top lifts as well as the Niseko Village gondola are on hold. Clearer skies are possible tomorrow and Thursday, hopefully without the wind too. And a bit more snow today. Anyway, I wrote this. ----- The 2020-2021 Niseko season so far: until the end February 2021 As it is now the beginning of March, it's once again time for me to look back at the numbers so far and see how we are doing compared with previous seasons. The usual up front stuff: I take my measurements from near the base of Niseko Grand Hirafu. There is usually more snow at higher elevations, but it is impossible for me to take measurements from the top of the mountain every morning for all sorts of practical reasons. My observed snowfall numbers on these Niseko Now reports over the years can be compared like-for-like, because they are my own observations and are coming from the same place each season. OK so here goes... This is how much snowfall I have measured during the month of February over the last nine years: February 2021: 325cm February 2020: 143cm February 2019: 198cm February 2018: 299cm February 2017: 160cm February 2016: 266cm February 2015: 196cm February 2014: 178cm February 2013: 316cm Very nice! The SnowJapan Niseko Now daily reports go back further than that (to a time when toast was not mentioned) but this is the most observed snowfall at base in any February since the current format was implemented in 2013. And more than double last February. There were just a handful of days when I wasn’t able to report any cm of snowfall and a further bunch of days when it was just a ‘dusting+’. Here’s the total snowfall from the start of the season through the end of February: 2020/2021 season up to end of February 2021: 1122cm 2019/2020 season up to end of February 2020: 659cm 2018/2019 season up to end of February 2019: 900cm 2017/2018 season up to end of February 2018: 1198cm 2016/2017 season up to end of February 2017: 605cm 2015/2016 season up to end of February 2016: 877cm 2014/2015 season up to end of February 2015: 1002cm 2013/2014 season up to end of February 2014: 1037cm 2012/2013 season up to end of February 2013: 1295cm 1122cm is also on the upper scale of what we have experienced over the last nine seasons. 2017-2018 just beat it by a bit and 2012-2013 by some more. These are very good numbers. If you go with the usual ‘there’s often about 1.5 times the amount of snow on the upper areas of the mountain’ thinking, it’s easy to imagine that there will have been 16m or more snowfall up there. With such good snow and conditions, in a normal year there would be a real celebratory atmosphere and everywhere would be buzzing. This season being what it is, though, it doesn’t feel like that. Yes, of course, people who have been able to visit have been able to enjoy some excellent conditions and enjoy an unusually quiet Niseko. For some it has almost felt like an experiment in time-travel to a time before Niseko got properly noticed. The sad fact remains that lots of you could not get here and so could only look on from afar. You folks clearly don't need anyone to remind you of that. But perhaps seeing Niseko and Japan in general enjoy a season of good snowfall will get everyone all the more excited for their next visit. I predict a rush back once people are able to. With the foreign market being a bit chunk of business for many in Niseko - probably more than any other ski area in Japan - it has undoubtedly been a difficult season and people are already genuinely wondering how next winter might possibly shape up. Obviously with much out of our control we can only do what we can do and hope that the situation is much brighter later this year and in the run up to 2021-2022. Anyway, going back to the numbers for this year. This is how much snowfall I have recorded during the month of March in the last eight winter seasons. March 2020: 59cm March 2019: 45cm March 2018: 49cm March 2017: 83cm March 2016: 109cm March 2015: 139cm March 2014: 113cm March 2013: 164cm You can clearly see than in recent years there has been a rather disappointing trend of us getting less snowfall during the month of March. This is by no means dismissing that clear year-on-year trend (those observed numbers can be directly compared), but it is important to remember that especially during the later part of a season there will be days when it snows on the mountain but there’s no fresh cm of snow for me to report from base. So in late season there's an increased chance that part of the story is not covered by base numbers. Always good to keep that in mind. And just as an additional number, this is how much of the total snowfall for a season we have already had by the end of February: By the end of February 2020, as a % of the season total: about 91% By the end of February 2019, as a % of the season total: about 95% By the end of February 2018, as a % of the season total: about 95% By the end of February 2017, as a % of the season total: about 88% By the end of February 2016, as a % of the season total: about 88% By the end of February 2015, as a % of the season total: about 88% By the end of February 2014, as a % of the season total: about 89% By the end of February 2013, as a % of the season total: about 87% The snowfall numbers that the Japan Meteorological Agency report from their observation station in Kutchan town are as follows. February 2021: 247cm February 2020: 158cm February 2019: 141cm February 2018: 202cm February 2017: 173cm February 2016: 210cm February 2015: 167cm February 2014: 130cm February 2013: 228cm 2020/2021 season up to end of February 2021: 860cm 2019/2020 season up to end of February 2020: 609cm 2018/2019 season up to end of February 2019: 808cm 2017/2018 season up to end of February 2018: 954cm 2016/2017 season up to end of February 2017: 741cm 2015/2016 season up to end of February 2016: 698cm 2014/2015 season up to end of February 2015: 825cm 2013/2014 season up to end of February 2014: 804cm 2012/2013 season up to end of February 2013: 900cm I think a general summary of the season so far would probably go something like this: Great year for snow, but wish you were here. PS The season ain’t over yet. I plan to be with you until the ski lifts close for the season. If they continue as planned, that’ll be early May. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:E10m/s. Cape Kamui: ENE42m/s, 1011hPa, wave 1.9m. Hanazono 1000m: -5.0℃, NNW7.8m/s. Hanazono 720: -6.5℃, NNW3.9m/s. Moiwa 800m: -6.0℃, NNE10.0m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-3.4℃, NNE9.9m/s. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -3.9℃, NNE4.3m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -6.8℃, NNE8.6m/s. Kutchan Town: -2.8℃, NW1.7m/s, 17cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 204cm. Moiwa Base 300m: -4.0℃, 25cm new snow in last 24hrs, light wind, snow, poor visibility. At the mountain base 15-20cm of low pressure snow has fallen on the 1st March layer, above 700m a NE15m/s wind and accumulations of wind blown snow. From tests at 800m new snowdrifts will fracture at 45cm depth. Snow at the mountain base is typical low pressure crystal snowfall, reflective and light. This snowfall higher up above 800m is under the new wind slab and expected to remain as a significant weak layer. On Osawa 1100m and Kozan no Sawa sidewall cornice face a wind slab or crust is expected to develop from a strong NE wind. Carelessly stimulating these slabs(snowdrifts) could impact through the slab causing an avalanche. These areas should not be ridden until the wind drops below 10m/s and given time to consolidate and stabilise. Gate openings yet to be decided. Please listen to the patrol’s advice. Expect the avalanche risk to rapidly increase from noon. The snow is good and light in the trees, but be careful when visibility is poor. Beware hitting trees or falling into a creek. The water is cold. Moiwa Gate 6 will be closed from tomorrow due to lift operations suspended. ----- Planned ski area operations: Tuesday 2nd March 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - Base: 15cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 470cm (+5cm) - Base: 230cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 - Night skiing: Ace Center Four quad (every day) and Ace Family quad (Saturdays only at the moment) ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 23cm - Base: 22cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (-7cm) - Base: 242cm (+17cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 - There is no night skiing at Hanazono ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+0cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Jumbo 2 and 3 rested - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift operates for night skiing ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+0cm) - Base: 214cm (-16cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Community, Banzai, Wonderland - Community Chair lift operates for night skiing ----- Night time operations are available in the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas until 7th March 2021. There is no night skiing in the Niseko HANAZONO area. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Tuesday 2nd March 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1141cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 83 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days March 2021 snowfall 19cm 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 21cm Snowfall at base this season 1122cm Posted on Saturday 27th February 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. Earlier clouds have been moving on and there's blue sky opening up above us as I put this report together. With a decent amount of fresh snow on the ground to boot. I very much approve of this way to end February! :) ...Ah! Unfortunately the top lifts are one by one being noted as being on hold as we approach 8:30am, I'm afraid. Doh! Status of the Village lift unconfirmed as I post the report. Perhaps they might be able to get going - if and when they do open gates are expected to be available today. Sunshine is forecast tomorrow when temperatures might get a bit milder, but hopefully not by too much. And then we should be starting the month of March with some fresh snow to celebrate. (Can you celeblate?) ----- Niseko Avalanche Report 6:25am Benkei cape: NNE9m/s, Kamui cape NE2m/s, 1028hPa, 2.0m waves. Hanazono 1000m: -10.5℃, NNE10.8m/s. Hanazono 720m: -9.7℃, N5m/s. Moiwa800m: -9.7℃, NNW6.0m/s. Annupuri1000m: -12.6℃, WSW ?m/s. Yu no sawa 1100m: -12.0℃, N4.2m/s. Mizuno no Sawa top: -11.1℃, NNE2.7m/s. Kutchan town: -6.7℃, ENE0.9m/s, 17cm snowfall in 24h, 207cm snow depth. Moiwa base: -7℃, 30cm snowfall in 24h, calm and good visibility. The wind picked up early in the morning and heavy snowfall continued until the morning. The newly formed snowdrifts under 800m elevation aren’t stable yet and can fracture with riding impact. The avalanche risk is high in cornices and snowdrift slopes in high elevation areas throughout the morning. All gates are scheduled to open, but will be subject to chairlift operations. Please wait for the ski patrol’s instructions. Better not stimulate slopes with strong wind patterns. Soft slabs may be fun to ski but are prone to break and slide today. 45cm thick surface slab avalanches are likely to occur. The snow condition changes every day. A slope that was good last week may not be safe to ski today. Hazardous conditions are present in surrounding mountains too. Have you worn your helmet and switched your beacon on? Airbags are useless if activated too late. The sun has come out now. Have a great day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Saturday 27th February 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 30cm - Base: 30cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 490cm (+20cm) - Base: 255cm (+15cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 7 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Pair 1, King Quad 3, King 4, Swinging Monkey - Night skiing: Ace Center Four quad (every day) and Ace Family quad (Saturdays only at the moment) ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 22cm - Base: 25cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 340cm (+15cm) - Base: 250cm (+17cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 - There is no night skiing at Hanazono ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (+10cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 6 lifts today - all should be moving - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift operates for night skiing ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 330cm (+20cm) - Base: 230cm (+10cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Community, Banzai, Wonderland - Community Chair lift operates for night skiing ----- Night time operations are available in the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas until 7th March 2021. There is no night skiing in the Niseko HANAZONO area. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Saturday 27th February 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1122cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 82 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 325cm reported on 24 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 1101cm Posted on Friday 26th February 2021 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning there is cloud, there is some light snow falling and there is even a bit of sunshine breaking through in places. Ski areas are reporting around 5-10cm of fresh snow since yesterday. We might get some more cm of snow today (though I wouldn't expect much) and expecting a weekend with a chance of sunshine and relatively mild temperatures. Come Tuesday temps are going to drop again with more snow due early in the week to take us into March. ----- I have so far reported 304cm of snowfall during this month. I just took a quick look at the tables and that is, in fact, the most for a February since the 2012-2013 season. More on all that kind of thing early next week... ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Coastal Data 6:25am. Cape Benkei:NNW10m/s. Cape Kamui: W11m/s, 1018hPa, wave 1.2m. Hanazono 1000m: -11.6℃, ESE3.5m/s. Hanazono 720: -8.8℃, NW8.8m/s. Moiwa 800m: -10.0℃, NNW9.4m/s. Annupuri 1100m:-12.7℃, W wind speed n/a. Yu no Sawa 1100m: -12.4℃, WNW3.8m/s. Mizuno no Sawa Top: -11.8℃, WNW6.1m/s. Kutchan Town: -7.8℃, 9cm snow in last 24hrs, snow depth 195cm. Moiwa Base 300m: -9, 20cm new snow in last 24hrs, light wind, sunny. Weak low pressure snow fell from midnight to dawn, a N10m/s wind above 800m is blowing however there is little significant snowdrift development. From tests, snowdrifts under the overnight snow have consolidated and stabilised and general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates are expected to open. Although the snow is shallow, it is good. Take care hitting yesterday's tracks, falling into cracks or hitting trees. Ride one by one and dont wait in the creek bottoms. Is your beacon on? Helmets are strongly recommended. Have a good day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Friday 26th February 2021 The below information is manually checked each morning from official sources. The numbers in brackets show the change in the official snow depth numbers since the previous report. Niseko Grand Hirafu 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 12cm - Base: 12cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 470cm (+0cm) - Base: 240cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 5 lifts today - Ace Family Quad, Ace Quad Center 4, Hirafu Gondola, King Quad 3, King 4 - Night skiing: Ace Center Four quad (every day) and Ace Family quad (Saturdays only at the moment) ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 12cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 325cm (+1cm) - Base: 233cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 3 lifts today - Hanazono 1, 2 and 3 - There is no night skiing at Hanazono ----- Niseko Annupuri 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 300cm (+10cm) - Base: 210cm (+0cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Jumbo 2 and 3 rested on weekdays - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift operates for night skiing ----- Niseko Village 24 hours new snowfall (as reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (+10cm) - Base: 220cm (+5cm) Ski lifts: - Planned: 4 lifts today - Niseko Gondola, Community, Banzai, Wonderland - Community Chair lift operates for night skiing ----- Night time operations are available in the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas until 7th March 2021. There is no night skiing in the Niseko HANAZONO area. Niseko Now 2020-2021 season Data as of Friday 26th February 2021 Total snowfall at base so far 1101cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 81 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 48cm (17th February) November 2020 snowfall 62cm reported on 6 days December 2020 snowfall 348cm reported on 25 days January 2021 snowfall 387cm reported on 27 days February 2021 snowfall 304cm reported on 23 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com