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

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

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

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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 9cm Snowfall at base this season 726cm Posted on Tuesday 1st February 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's February already. Blimey. But as Niseko plans to be open until early May, it means we are still not half way through the season. That's a good way to think about it! Hopefully 'winter mode' will continue for a long time yet. Anyway this morning I have 9cm of snowfall to report at base since yesterday morning. It's -9C outside and feels suitably cold. Light snow in places this morning but it's brighter again in others, and the sun is breaking through the clouds over at Hanazono just now. Wind is not an issue today and all lifts and gates should be open. Forecasts are looking good for the coming week with a fair amount of snow expected. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -10℃, calm, 5cm of light crystal snowfall. Moiwa800m: -9.2℃, WNW5.7m/s, 10cm snowfall, light snowdrift development. Annupuri1150m: -11℃, westerly 10m/s, 10cm snowfall, light snowdrift development. Hirafu peak ridge: -13℃, W10m/s, snowdrift development has paused. Coastal data: NW11m/s, Kamui cape: W9m/s, 1014hPa, 1.0m waves. The wind and snow has dropped at night and the snowdrifts are consolidating and stabilizing. Thick snow-clouds are still appearing from time to time. The avalanche risk is lowering in most common slopes. All gates are scheduled to open. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. However, avalanche risk still remains high in leeward aspects around 1000m elevation. Please be cautious. O-sawa (annupuri bowl) cornice slopes and Kozan no Sawa (Backbowl) slopes should be avoided for today. The snow is faster than yesterday. Be careful not to hit trees and fall into cracks. The isobars are spreading out and the ocean is starting to calm down too. We received news that Cherry Salmons are being caught at the Shimamaki coast. ----- Planned ski area operations: Tuesday 1st 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: 360cm (-10cm) - Base: 200cm (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: 312cm (-8cm) - Base: 237cm (-13cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 8cm - Base: 8cm 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 190cm (+5cm) 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 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village 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 1st February 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 726cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 60 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 9cm 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 11cm Snowfall at base this season 717cm Posted on Monday 31st January 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's the last day of January and for this report I have 11cm of snow to report since yesterday morning, bringing the total for the month up to 325cm and the total observed snowfall (by me) for the season so far to 717cm. I'll write up more about in the next few days. Weekend visitors will have been disappointed with the top lifts yesterday but they should be open this morning and early folk will be able to enjoy some lovely weather too. There's lots of beautiful blue sky and sunshine this morning! It might not last long so for those able to, it's a good idea to enjoy it while we can. It's cold, so be sure to wrap up well. More consistent snowfall is forecast from Wednesday onwards so we are going to have a good start to February. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -13℃, 20cm snowfall and calm. Moiwa800m: -14℃, W10m/s (15m/s gusts), daily observations not possible due to snow-cat failure. Annupuri1150m: -17℃, strong westerly wind, 40cm snowfall with snowdrift developments. Cornices are breaking with a slight stimulation. Hirafu peak: -19℃, strong westerly wind, 40cm snowfall with large development of snowdrifts. Coastal data Benkei cape: NNW14m/s, Kamui cape: WNW7m/s, 1010hPa, 1.5m waves. The Niseko Avalanche Information is written based on daily observations and study of snowdrifts and cornices development and other weather data including the coastal data. Considering that the past avalanche accidents occurred during and just after storms, we evaluate the hazards by observing the formation and transition of snowdrifts, as the cause of avalanches is directly related to the development of snowdrift slabs on a slope. Raw observations messages from patrollers and snow-cat operators are indispensable for the making of this information. The wind is starting to calm down on the coast, however still blowing strong above 800m elevation, making cornices and snowdrifts grow in the leeward slopes. The avalanche risk remains high in the Backbow sidewalls, O-sawa cornice slope, Mikaeri bowl’s 30° slopes. Most gates are scheduled to open, please seek the ski patrol’s advice before going out. Better not be overconfident on knowledge and equipment, prudence is key to stay safe. There will never be 100% safety in this sport. The snow in the tree runs is good again today. Beware of hypothermia and frostbites. Have you switched your beacon ON? ----- Planned ski area operations: Monday 31st January 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: 370cm (no change) - Base: 200cm (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: 320cm (no change) - Base: 250cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 25cm 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 185cm (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 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village 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 31st January 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 717cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 59 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 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 24cm Snowfall at base this season 706cm Posted on Sunday 30th January 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning everyone and it is a snowy start to this Sunday. As of 8:30am, there's have 24cm of new snowfall to report from base and it's still coming down. I can imagine there will be that and a fair bit more higher up, with some very fluffy conditions to enjoy. It is also a very cold morning and visibility. Unfortunately the top lifts and the Annupuri gondola are on hold due to windy conditions. It's snowing at Hanazono, better visibility at Hirafu and there's some blue sky even over towards Mt Yotei. I should have more snow to report tomorrow though. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -9℃, light winds, 25cm new wind effected snow. Moiwa 800m: -13℃, W15m/s, 40cm new snow, snowdrift development, poor visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -15℃, strong W winds, heavy snowfall, snowdrift development. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -17℃, strong winds, heavy snowfall, rapid snowdrift development, poor visibility. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NNW15m/s. Kamui Cape: W10m/s, 1009hPa, wave 1.9m. The atmospheric pressure gradient is steep, above 800m there has been major rapid snowdrift development. On SE faces above 900m snowdrifts are yet to stabilise and the avalanche risk is high. Best to stay off >30deg leeward snowdrift slopes today. Expect up to 60cm fracture faces on rider stimulated surface avalanches. Peak gates will be closed. Moiwa Gate 6 undecided. Please follow the patrols instructions. Although winds will ease this afternoon the high avalanche risk will continue throughout the day. From Gate 8 Osawa 1000m, do not go across to Osawa cornice slope. The 1st Japanese snowboard avalanche death occurred under similar conditions to today. Conditions change daily, yesterday's safe slope may not be today. Snow in the trees is good but deep and heavy. Do not wait in avalanche paths at valley bottoms. Have a good day. ----- Planned ski area operations: Sunday 30th January 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: 370cm (no change) - Base: 200cm (+10cm) 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 - 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: 320cm (+5cm) - Base: 250cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 28cm - Base: 33cm 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 185cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 30cm - Base: 30cm 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 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 30th January 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 706cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 58 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 314cm reported on 29 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 18cm Snowfall at base this season 682cm Posted on Saturday 29th January 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Enjoyed a few hours out there yesterday in that fun mix of weather conditions we had. Another respectable amount of fresh light snowfall to report this morning, with more to come over the weekend and into early next week. Interesting to see Hanazono reporting over 40cm of snow. So far I have reported 290cm of snowfall during January 2022. That compares with 387cm last January, so a bit of a difference in the total number. While the numbers might not be as high, there has generally been consistency. Anyway, more on that when I look back at the season so far sometime next week. It's still snowing now with variable visibility and wind is not a problem. The Holiday (Hirafu) and Jumbo 3 (Annupuri) lifts are up and running too for the weekend. There are more people around this morning, though hardly what would used to be 'normal' a few years ago, of course. I wonder when we'll be able to get back to those times... ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7℃, moderate W winds, 20cm new snow. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, W10m/s, light snow wind, 30cm new snow, no significant snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, W10m/s, 40cm new snow. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -13℃, W10-12m/s, 40cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NNW14m/s. Kamui Cape: W12m/s, 1009hPa, wave 1.8m. We are in a typical winter weather pattern with mild blizzard conditions on the western slopes and cold air flowing in. Over the last 3 days snowfall has mostly been heavy snow up to 40cm in some locations. Snowdrifts are slowly increasing in depth. Snow is expected throughout the day with poor visibility at times. Assessing meteorological and coastal data the general avalanche risk is low. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrols instructions and be prepared before exiting the gates. Once you exit the gates you are not in the ski resort anymore, be cautious. Avoid stimulating knolls and under cornices. Do not ride SE slopes more than 1 at a time. A fractured surface slab can trigger an avalanche deeper in the snowpack. The snow is deep and good in the trees. Take care not to hit trees or fall in cracks. Do not hang around in the valley bottom. Is your beacon on? Have a good weekend. ----- Planned ski area operations: Saturday 29th January 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: 370cm (no change) - Base: 190cm (+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 - 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: 315cm (+25cm) - Base: 245cm (+35cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 41cm - Base: 47cm 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 185cm (no change) 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 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ----- Niseko Village 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 29th January 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 682cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 57 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 290cm reported on 28 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 16cm Snowfall at base this season 664cm Posted on Friday 28th January 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's good news this morning too as we venture back into double digits of new snow since the previous day. Yey! ​Down here near Hirafu base I have just been out and measured 16cm of fresh snow and ski areas are reporting up to 26cm (Hanazono) on the mountain. Sounds like that might be a good reset to me. Feels pretty cold out but there's not much wind. It has been a cloudy start but there is increasingly some blue sky showing through and cheeky bits of sunshine. Then again, it's snowing lightly over at Hanazono as of 8:25am. Who knows how the morning will pan out. I think an investigation is required. Don't worry, I will do that on your behalf. ;) Just looking ahead beyond today, we should be being snowed on over the weekend. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -5℃, 20cm new snow, light wind. Moiwa 800m: -7℃, N10m/s, 40cm snowdrift in some locations. Annupuri 1150m: -9℃, NW10m/s, 15cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -10℃, 15cm new snow to dawn, snowdrift development. Coastal data Benkei Cape: NNW10m/s, Kamui Cape: NW8m/s, 1013hPa, 1.1m waves. We are in a typical winter weather pattern, high to the west and low to the east. Isobars are wide apart and a light snow wind is on the mountains. There is little significant snowdrift development and the general avalanche risk is low. The mountain is mostly reset above 700m and snow is good in the trees. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrols instructions and be prepared before exiting the gates. It is strongly recommended you wear a working beacon and helmet. Do not enter strictly off limits areas Haru no Taki and Yu no Sawa. Do not ride under the lift line from Gate 7, this is not allowed for safety. Please respect this rule. Niseko Rules were made to give you the most freedom available. This is a dangerous sport, always be cautious. The good snow continues. ----- Planned ski area operations: Friday 28th January 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: 370cm (+20cm) - Base: 175cm (+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: 290cm (+10cm) - Base: 210cm (+5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 26cm - 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 185cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 12cm - Base: 12cm 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 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 28th January 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 664cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 56 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 272cm reported on 27 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 648cm Posted on Thursday 27th January 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning the sun is shining through my window just now. There's an increasing amount of blue sky above Hirafu. I have just a near handful cm of snowfall to report to you again today. I have had some snow to report in each of the last 7 reports, but they have all been single digits. The snow rate has slowed down this last week or so, but hopefully this period will just be a temporary lull and we'll get back to some bigger numbers and regular resets soon. The forecast is looking quite promising in that respect. All areas and gates should be open. ----- For the moment I'm taking out the new snowfall numbers on the Village listing below. They just don't seem to get updated, and are potentially causing more confusion than they should. ----- Someone commented on the use of the word 'epic' in a report a few days ago, saying they didn't think I'd use such a word. I don't! And I didn't. And I won't. It was in the Avalanche Report, which I do not write. I make a point of avoiding words like that. Personally, I just think they sound hype-y and a bit cheesy*; and generally overused in the world of skiing (marketing). Using superlatives sparingly has much more of an impact. * Don't get me wrong, I love cheese. Cheese and toast go very well together. Mmmmmm. Anyway, sorry for being a bit silly today. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -5℃, 5cm snowfall, no snowdrifts. Moiwa800m: -7℃, W10m/s, cornices and snowdrifts developing. Annupuri1150m: -9℃, W10m/s, moderate westerly wind and snow until pre-dawn and poor visibility. Hirafu peak ridge: -11℃, W10m/s, light snow. Coastal data Benkei cape: NNW9m/s, Kamui cape: W9m/s, 1013hPa, 1.0m waves. Other weather data on seprate website. The small low-pressure system sitting above northern Shakotan has made some warm air flowing in. A moderate westerly wind is making snowdrifts grow slowly above 800m elevation. Looking at the observations result and weather data, the avalanche risk in common slopes is low. All gates will open in the morning. Please follow the patrollers’ instruction. The snow condition is ever-changing. Avalanche risk is moderately high in wind affected slopes above 1000m elevation due to new formation of slabs. Open steep faces, cornice slopes and knoll terrain found in areas like the Backbowl can be hazardous. Do not stop riding under such slopes. Mountain on the Japan Sea side, where repeated snowfall occurs, have a more frequent layer formation in the snowpack compared to inland/pacific side mountains where it’s colder and sunnier more often. Avalanches slide from a weak layer, however risk evaluation from studying the layers can be very challenging in this area. We certainly hope that pit-checks aren’t just for fashionable posing. Avalanche risk evaluation in Niseko is done by daily snow-cat inspection of snowdrifts formation and stability as well as studying the daily weather and snowfall transition. Stimulations are instantly transmitted through rapidly formed thick snowdrifts. When such conditions are present, it is highly suggested not to stimulate leeward slopes and knoll terrains and deadly surface slab avalanches could occur anytime. This information is issued to prevent accidents of all resort users. Still good snow conditions found today. ----- Planned ski area operations: Thursday 27th January 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: 350cm (+10cm) - Base: 165cm (no change) 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 - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 280cm (+5cm) - Base: 205cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 15cm - 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 185cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 3cm - Base: 3cm 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 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 27th January 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 648cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 55 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 256cm reported on 26 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 644cm Posted on Wednesday 26th January 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here We have light snow falling this morning and I have 4cm to report to you since. It's relatively mild this morning. Hopefully over the next few days there will be more numbers to report and it does look set to get colder over the weekend. The Hanazono gondola is at a standstill as of 8:30am, not sure what's going on there. Perhaps they are waiting for someone to turn up! (Ba Dum Tsh. Got to try and keep jolly). The cabins are on the cables so hopefully it will start moving soon. ----- You might have noticed that Japan is experiencing a large increase in covid (omicron) cases at the moment. Yesterday case numbers, the only number that the media is totally fixated on, for the country rose to over 60,000 (1536 of those in Hokkaido). There are no strict restrictions in place right now, but from tomorrow, Hokkaido enters one of those 'quasi state of emergency' thingies. If you can find someone who knows exactly what it is, please tell me (and everyone else). But on a more serious note, it seems that it will mostly be affecting restaurants and bars who are once again being asked to shorten business hours. That provisionally runs through 20th February. By that time hopefully this latest wave will be over. Sigh. Stay safe everyone! ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -3℃, 5cm snowfall with no wind affected crystal snow, calm. Moiwa 800m: -7℃, light snowdrifts, good visibility, calm. Annupuri 1150m: -8℃, slightly strong west wind, 5cm snowfall, light development on snowdrifts. Hirafu peak ridge: slightly strong west wind, light snowfall, good visibility. Coastal data Benkei cape: SSE 2m/s, Kamui cape: SSE 2m/s, 1018hPa, 0.6m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is flat and the mountain/ocean weather is calm. Slightly strong westerly winds and cold air is flowing in at higher elevation, forming weak snow clouds. According to observations and weather data evaluation, the general avalanche risk is low. All gates will be open early morning. Mountain weather in Niseko and other areas along the Japan Sea coast are greatly affected by the sea. When the atmospheric pressure gradient tightens due to a winter-type pressure pattern or a low pressure system passes, thunderclouds and snow clouds will develop and blizzards will intensify. Mountaineering accidents tend to occur in bad weather conditions such as blizzards. All past avalanche accidents in Niseko area occurred during or immediately after a snowstorm. It may seem calm in the forest, but we should always consider unstable cornices and snowdrifts may be developing in the higher elevation. We need to do our best to use our wisdom to assess the situation. There is no guarantee of safety in this sport. Anyway, the snow remains good. Have a good day. Isobars do not lie. ----- Planned ski area operations: Wednesday 26th January 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: 340cm (+5cm) - Base: 165cm (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: 275cm (-5cm) - Base: 205cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 185cm (no change) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 2cm - Base: 2cm 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: 250cm no change - Base: 180cm no change Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm 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 26th January 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 644cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 54 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 252cm reported on 25 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 640cm Posted on Tuesday 25th January 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a dusting of snow to report to you this morning from base. I just about feel comfortable posting 1cm for this report. We've not had as much snowfall this last week or so, and as we are always very greedy when it comes to our insatiable desire for fresh light fluffy snow, it does feel like we could do with a full reset. Even though conditions actually remain pretty good. They'd just be better with a new layer. Like I said, just greedy. Forecasts appear to be indicating that we might be getting back into the snow groove from Thursday. There's not much wind at all this morning and all scheduled lifts should be doing their thing. Over at Hanazono right now there's some blue sky, some sun, some cloud and some (very) light snow falling. Very pretty. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -5℃, light dusting and calm. Moiwa800m: -7℃, light breeze, 5cm snowfall. Annupuri1150m: -10℃, NW breeze, light snowdrifts. Hirafu peak ridge: -11℃, northerly breeze, light snowdrifts, 5cm new snow on course and good groomer condition. Coastal data Benkei cape: NNW4m/s, Kamui cape: WNW4m/s, 1020hPa, 0.7m waves. Look up other weather data on separate site. The atmospheric pressure gradient is flat and the mountain/ocean weather is calm. New snowfall is scarce and the snowdrifts development is small. According to observations and weather data evaluation, the general avalanche risk is low. All gates are scheduled to open early morning. Listen to the ski patrol’s advice and prepare yourself for the backcountry. The area outside the gates is not the resort anymore. Glide avalanche risk continues in 700m elevation SE facing slopes with cracks. Sasa-bamboo is covering those slopes and the depth hoar on top of it, formed due to the large temperature difference in early winter, is barely capable of holding the deep snowpack piled on top. Better not stay still under a cracked slope. Cracks are also hard to see from above and falling in can easily end up in a critical situation. Beware of hitting trees, they’re stronger than you’d think. The old tracks are not covered, but the snow remains good. This information may sound excessively alarming, but is issued for the safety of all resort users. Please respect the Niseko Rules. Epic groomers conditions today. ----- Planned ski area operations: Tuesday 25th January 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: 335cm (+5cm) - Base: 165cm (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: 280cm (no change) - Base: 205cm (-5cm) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 7cm - Base: 3cm 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: 250cm (no change) - Base: 185cm (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: 250cm +10cm - Base: 180cm -30cm (!!) Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm 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 25th January 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 640cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 53 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 248cm 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