Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 945cm Posted on Tuesday 2nd April 2019 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Mostly cloudy, some blue skies, some sun now but some light snow falling in places. We might just get a bit more still. Here's my look back at March and the season so far... A look back at the season so far: March 2019 My oh my, it is already April. I probably say this too often but... how the seasons fly by! As much as spring can be a lot of fun though, I think this year the spring season seems to have been with us for longer than most of us would like. And there’s still over a month of it to go! If you remember I was only able to measure and record 9cm of fresh snowfall over the last 12 days of February so as we entered March, we were all hoping that we would see a return to more winter-like weather. Unfortunately, I was not able to add any more cm of fresh snowfall to a report until my report on 12th March. From that day there was a run of five mornings when I could report some fresh snowfall, but even with that the total snowfall for the month of March was standing at just 14cm by 22nd March. Happily, we got a bit more snow in the last week of the month which helped us ‘save face’ a bit! And put some renewed smiles on faces. In the end, the total for March 2019 was 45cm. (Phew!) So in the end here is the amount of snowfall that I have measured close to my Hirafu base during the month of March in each of the last seven seasons: March 2019: 45cm March 2018: 49cm March 2017: 83cm March 2016: 109cm March 2015: 139cm March 2014: 113cm March 2013: 164cm And here are the 'season up to the end of March' totals over the last seven seasons: 2018/2019 season up to end of March 2019: 945cm 2017/2018 season up to end of March 2018: 1247cm 2016/2017 season up to end of March 2017: 688cm 2015/2016 season up to end of March 2016: 986cm 2014/2015 season up to end of March 2015: 1141cm 2013/2014 season up to end of March 2014: 1150cm 2012/2013 season up to end of March 2013: 1459cm The total numbers look decent, but that period between mid-February and mid-March was very lacking in fresh snow. OK, so can we expect any/much more from now or is that it for the season? In recent years this is how much snow I have been able to observe near Hirafu base from 1st April through until the lifts close at the end of the season: From 1st April through the end of the season 2018: 13cm From 1st April through the end of the season 2017: 0cm From 1st April through the end of the season 2016: 6cm From 1st April through the end of the season 2015: 3cm From 1st April through the end of the season 2014: 13cm From 1st April through the end of the season 2013: 34cm So we might get a little if we are lucky - and as always, more likely higher up than at base - but we really cannot expect much. Think of it as a bonus if it happens. The last piece of data is the snowfall numbers that the Japan Meteorological Agency report from their observation station in Kutchan town. Here is what they have reported for the month of March over the last seven years: March 2019: ??cm March 2018: 59cm March 2017: 90cm March 2016: 125cm March 2015: 141cm March 2014: 118cm March 2013: 124cm I will do a full end-of-season report in my last report on or around Monday 6th May, the planned last day of the season. I mentioned this previously but it was good to see Niseko HANAZONO extend their season from 31st March to 7th April. It goes to show we got decent snowfall in those first three months of the season. I will be here with you a new report every day until 6th May. --- Ski resort operation information: Tuesday 2nd April 2019 Subject to change due to weather conditions Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open until Monday 6th May 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 325cm - Base: 100cm Ski lifts operation news: - Ace Number 1, 2, 3 pairs, King Number 1 pair, King Number 2 quad and Swinging Monkey lifts closed - Plans to be open until Monday 6th May ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 226cm - Base: 150cm Ski lifts operation news: - All lifts open - Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April ----- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open until Monday 6th May 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 250cm - Base: 80cm Ski lifts operation news: - Jumbo Number 2 and 3 pair lifts closed - Plans to be open until Monday 6th May ----- Niseko Village Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 250cm - Base: 80cm Ski lifts operation news: - Upper Village Gondola, Community Chair, Morino Chair and Country Road closed - Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April Niseko Now 2018-2019 season Data as of Tuesday 2nd April 2019 Total snowfall at base so far 945cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 91 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 32cm (29th December) November 2018 snowfall 84cm reported on 8 days December 2018 snowfall 333cm reported on 26 days January 2019 snowfall 285cm reported on 25 days February 2019 snowfall 198cm reported on 20 days March 2019 snowfall 45cm reported on 12 days April 2019 snowfall 0cm Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 943cm Posted on Thursday 28th March 2019 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko... and I have some more snow to report. 3cm of it down by base along with some pleasingly cold conditions. Right now there is a lot of cloud but there are some patches of blue sky around as well. The next few days should be bringing us mostly a mix of cloud and sun with perhaps the chance of some more light sprinklings of snow at times. Wind might well be an issue again this morning so if you are planning on being out today do keep an eye on that info. Updated: top lifts are on hold again. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Mountain base 6am: -4℃, 2cm snowfall. Moiwa800m: -7.7℃, NNW7.25m/s, cornice and snowdrift developments. Annupuri 1100m: -10.8℃, W7.6m/s, 250cm snow depth. Hirafu 1000m: -10.3℃, NNW7.1m/s, Hirafu peak cat: -10℃, strong wind and slight snowfall. Kutchan weather station: -3.6℃, S0.7m/s, 87cm snow depth. Benkei cape: NNW14m/s, Kamui cape: WNW8m/s, 1005hPa, 1.4m waves. Steep atmospheric pressure gradient generating strong westerly wind on the ocean and mountains. Snowfall is scarce but snowdrifts are present in some places. Surface slab avalanche risk is relatively low. The snow above 800m elevation is good due to low temperature, however will turn sticky as the temperature rises and the crystals starts to melt. The snowdrifts depth under the ridgeline is shallower than regular years and the glide avalanche hazard level is a little lower than usual, however a shallow glide avalanche is still powerful enough to easily kill a person. Stay away from the valley bottoms in order to avoid those slides. Spring storms make drastic snowdrifts development and can be the cause of avalanche accidents. A slide occurred in Nakasatunai, Hidaka range in March 14th 1965 and killed 6 people who were resting in a snow cave at the bottom of the valley. Always remember that many of the avalanche accidents occur during or just after storms, no matter the season. The mountain base is shifting to Spring, but Winter persists in high elevation. Have a great day. --- Ski resort operation information: Thursday 28th March 2019 Subject to change due to weather conditions Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open until Monday 6th May 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 330cm - Base: 100cm Ski lifts operation news: - Top lifts affected by wind - Ace Number 1 pair, King Number 4 and Ace Number 4 pair lift closed - Plans to be open until Monday 6th May ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 235cm - Base: 147cm Ski lifts operation news: - Top lift affected by wind - Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April ----- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open until Monday 6th May 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 260cm - Base: 90cm Ski lifts operation news: - Gondola, Jumbo Number 2, 3 and 4 pair lifts closed - Plans to be open until Monday 6th May ----- Niseko Village Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 260cm - Base: 90cm Ski lifts operation news: - Community Chair and Wonderland lifts closed - Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April Niseko Now 2018-2019 season Data as of Thursday 28th March 2019 Total snowfall at base so far 943cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 90 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 32cm (29th December) November 2018 snowfall 84cm reported on 8 days December 2018 snowfall 333cm reported on 26 days January 2019 snowfall 285cm reported on 25 days February 2019 snowfall 198cm reported on 20 days March 2019 snowfall 43cm reported on 11 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 900cm Posted on Friday 1st March 2019 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and welcome to March. After another day of fine weather yesterday, this morning there is quite a lot of cloud around and some blue sky and sunshine too. (Having said that, Niseko Village appear to be have been reporting fog on the upper areas earlier.) But we can probably expect a mix of cloud and clear sky for the day. There is no fresh snowfall to report this morning and it might be a bit windy on the mountain but all the resorts are apparently opening as planned. --- A look back at the season so far: February 2019 As is tradition, here I look back over February and the season so far. You can follow my reports and snowfall numbers at any time towards the bottom of this page and on the Snowfall Analysis page (link at the top of this report). February started off really well. I was able to record fresh cm of snowfall on each of the first 16 days in February. There were no massive snowfall numbers – the most in one day was 21cm on 1st February – but we enjoyed a respectable 15-20cm or so on quite a few of the days in that first half of the month. Nice. The second half of the month was a different story. It was as if the tap had been turned off on 17th February. I added a total of just 9cm over last 12 days of the month. Check out the Snowfall Analysis page to see how much snow we usually get in the second half of February... it’s quite the contrast. Here is the amount of snowfall that I have measured close to my Hirafu base during the month of February in each of the last seven seasons: February 2019: 198cm February 2018: 299cm February 2017: 160cm February 2016: 266cm February 2015: 196cm February 2014: 178cm February 2013: 316cm So, 1m less than what I measured last season but actually fairly comparable amounts to three other seasons. In this current season, of course, the snowfall has been more noticeably weighted in that first half of the season. Here’s the 'season up to the end of February' totals over the last seven seasons: 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 Those raw total numbers (and remember, that’s what they are – they don't tell the full story) are considerably better than the 16/17 season and comparable to 15/16. A fair bit under the other seasons though. And now here we are in March. In the most recent seasons this is how much snowfall I have observed at base in March: March 2018: 49cm March 2017: 83cm March 2016: 109cm March 2015: 139cm March 2014: 113cm March 2013: 164cm ...and how much snowfall we have received from the beginning of March to the end of the season... Amount of snow falling between 1st March 2019 & end of season: ??? Amount of snow falling between 1st March 2018 & end of season: 62cm Amount of snow falling between 1st March 2017 & end of season: 83cm Amount of snow falling between 1st March 2016 & end of season: 115cm Amount of snow falling between 1st March 2015 & end of season: 142cm Amount of snow falling between 1st March 2014 & end of season: 126cm Amount of snow falling between 1st March 2013 & end of season: 196cm There's a curious pattern going on there. And it's not one that I am keen to see. 2015 aside, the amount of observed snowfall at base from March onwards has been decreasing - an impressive 2m or so in 2013; down to less than 1m in the last two seasons. That’s definitely something to ponder. Let's pondering. The last piece of data is, as always, the snowfall numbers that the Japan Meteorological Agency report from their observation station in Kutchan town. Here is what they have reported for the month of February in recent years: February 2019: 141cm February 2018: 202cm February 2017: 173cm February 2016: 210cm February 2015: 167cm February 2014: 130cm February 2013: 228cm And the JMA numbers for the ‘season so far’: 2017/2018 season up to end of February 2019: 954cm 2016/2017 season up to end of February 2018: 741cm 2015/2016 season up to end of February 2017: 698cm 2014/2015 season up to end of February 2016: 825cm 2013/2014 season up to end of February 2015: 804cm 2012/2013 season up to end of February 2014: 900cm All being well, there is still over two full months left of the 2018-2019 season with the last lifts planning to stop at the end of the day on Monday 6th May. That is a very long spring season, if we are indeed properly into spring. As you can see above (and in the archives) though, in previous seasons March has delivered some decent snowfall. So, I choose to remain hopeful that we will get some more snow and a few nice surprises. Just how much though... well, I’ll be here to take you through the rest of the season every day until the end. Even if you have been and gone already this season, please do remember your duty to continue reading my reports through until the end - I want to share with you the story of the whole season. And of course, you can also enjoy watching me start to struggle for things to write on some days as the last part of the season approaches. ;) Gambarimasu! --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Mountain base 6am: 0℃, no snowfall. Moiwa800m: -2.7℃, W2.99m/s. Annupuri 1120m: snow depth 250cm, 1100m: -5.2℃, WSW6.7m/s. Hirafu peak: strong winds, -5℃, 1000m: -5.2℃, ESE2.7m/s. Niseko Village Mizuno no Sawa: no snowfall, snow depth 146cm at base. Kutchan weather station: -2.5℃, ENE0.9m/s, 147cm snow depth. Benkei cape: W2m/s, Kamui cape: SW9m/s, 1013hPa, 1.1m waves. Calm morning without snowfall, however the wind remains strong in higher elevation. The snowpack is stable. No notable weak layer has been observed and the avalanche risk is low. All gates are scheduled to open from the morning. Ask the ski patrol’s advice before stepping out of gates and be well prepared for backcountry travels. Thaw will pick up as the temperature rises. Beware of collapsing snow-bridges and cornices. Stay out of valley bottoms to prevent accidents. Avalanche risk will rise as the next storm passes and snowdrifts develop. Always be conscious of the weather transition. It is recommended to carry a rope (no need to be a thick one) in case of falling in cracks. There are many hazards lurking in the mountains. Be prudent. --- Ski resort operation information: Friday 1st March 2019 Subject to change due to weather conditions Niseko Grand Hirafu Plans to be open until Monday 6th May 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 335cm - Base: 140cm Ski lifts operating: - All lifts opening as normal at the start of the day (Ace Number 1 pair and King Number 2 quad rested) - The Ace Family quad (until 8:30pm), Ace Center 4 quad (8:20pm), Hirafu Gondola (until 8:10pm) and Holiday Number 1 pair (until 8:30pm) lifts are normally open during the evening ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 248cm - Base: 195cm Ski lifts operating: - All lifts opening as normal at the start of the day - The Hanazono lifts are normally open until 3:50pm (Number 3 until 3:30pm) ----- Niseko Annupuri Plans to be open until Monday 6th May 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 310cm - Base: 130cm Ski lifts operating: - All lifts opening as normal at the start of the day - The Jumbo 1 lift is normally open until 8:30pm during the evening ----- Niseko Village Plans to be open until Sunday 7th April 2019 Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 310cm - Base: 130cm Ski lifts operating: - All lifts opening as normal at the start of the day (Country Road lift rested) - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are normally open until 8:00pm during the evening Niseko Now 2018-2019 season Data as of Friday 1st March 2019 Total snowfall at base so far 900cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 79 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 32cm (29th December) November 2018 snowfall 84cm reported on 8 days December 2018 snowfall 333cm reported on 26 days January 2019 snowfall 285cm reported on 25 days February 2019 snowfall 198cm reported on 20 days March 2019 snowfall 0cm Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 19cm Snowfall at base this season 787cm Posted on Friday 8th February 2019 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here After saying I wasn't feeling well yesterday, a few kind souls sent me messages via the SnowJapan folk... suggesting that I have some toast to feel better. And you know what, it worked wonders; I am feeling almost back to normal this morning. The magic of toast! (And, thank you - those messages made me chuckle and cheered me up). OK back to the important stuff.. I have 19cm of fresh snowfall at base to report to you as of 8am and snow is continuing to fall this morning. Not absolutely massive amounts perhaps, but certainly good quality. Also very noticeable this morning is how cold it is. Extremely cold. (Might be left-overs of my not genki condition, but it feels to me like it might be the coldest morning this season). Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village are both reporting temperatures of -22C up top and it's a 'far-from-toasty' -15C down here. Brrrrr, indeed. Visibility is also rather limited. Extra special care advised on a morning like this. Wind is affecting some ski lifts at the start of the day: currently on hold are the top lifts at Hirafu, Gondola and top lift at Village, Gondola and top lift at Annupuri. Continued snowfall is what the forecast is telling us to expect over the coming week. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Mountain base 6am: -15℃, 10cm snowfall in 12h, light storm. Moiwa800m: -18.3℃, W10.1m/s, stormy and snowdrifts developing. Mikaeri junction: cornices and snowdrifts developing. Annupuri1120m snow depth 220cm. Hirafu peak: -20℃, stormy, snowdrifts developing. 165cm snow depth at Mizuno no sawa base, -19.75℃, 10cm snowfall in 12h, WNW13.2m/s at the entry knoll of the valley. Suttsu weather station: -12.0℃, NW9.9m/s, 58cm snow depth, Kutchan -13.8℃, NW8.9m/s, 179cm snow depth. Benkei cape: NNW18m/s, Kamui cape: NW14m/s, 1011hPa, 2.8m waves. Winter pressure distribution with a strong cold airmass flowing resulted in a cold stormy morning above 800m elevation making cornices and snowdrifts develop considerably. Pressure test showed some weakness activities at Feb 8th hoar layer 20-40cm below the surface, most prominent in knoll terrains and surface slab slides are very likely to occur. The overall avalanche hazard level is HIGH. All gates opening are undetermined. Follow the ski patrol’s instructions. The snow in the tree runs is overhead conditions, however be sure to avoid dropping all the way down to the valley bottoms (avalanche paths). Do not cut across cornices and knolls, that’s the easiest way to trigger a slide. Avalanches in Niseko mainly occur as a slab (snowdrifts) that drastically grew during a storm collapses. Beware of your route, better avoid open steep slopes. Have you switched your beacon ON? It is not mandatory to wear one, but it could save yours or your buddy’s life. Beware of frostbites. We would like to apologize for some inappropriate expressions used in yesterday’s report. Have a great day. --- Ski resort operation information: Friday 8th February 2019 Subject to change due to weather conditions Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 350cm - Base: 140cm Ski lifts operating: - Top two lifts on hold at the start of the day - The Ace Family quad (until 8:30pm), Ace Center 4 quad (8:20pm), Hirafu Gondola (until 8:10pm) and Holiday Number 1 pair (until 8:30pm) lifts are normally open during the evening ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 253cm - Base: 210cm Ski lifts operating: - All lifts opening as normal at the start of the day - The Hanazono lifts are normally open until 3:50pm (Number 3 until 3:30pm) ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 300cm - Base: 150cm Ski lifts operating: - Gondola and top lift on hold at the start of the day - The Jumbo 1 lift is normally open until 8:30pm during the evening ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 300cm - Base: 160cm Ski lifts operating: - Gondola and top lift on hold at the start of the day - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are normally open until 8:00pm during the evening Niseko Now 2018-2019 season Data as of Friday 8th February 2019 Total snowfall at base so far 787cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 67 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 32cm (29th December) November 2018 snowfall 84cm reported on 8 days December 2018 snowfall 333cm reported on 26 days January 2019 snowfall 285cm reported on 25 days February 2019 snowfall 85cm 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 Shiga Kogen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 76cm Posted on Friday 5th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Shiga Kogen Now report can be found here . Good snowy news once again this morning as the early season shapes up nicely - for now, anyway. (Don't want to jinx it!) Today the Takamagahara Mammoth and Ichinose Family ski areas are going to be part open and join in the fun. With Yokoteyama and Kumanoyu both also part open, there are now 4 different ski areas in Shiga Kogen part open. Yakebitaiyama is also planning on being part open from tomorrow. And the Opening Festival will be held at Ichinose Family tomorrow. A whirlwind of activity! Full details of what is open tomorrow once things calm down... we expect clearer skies and sunshine over the weekend. Shiga Kogen Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 76cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 10 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 19cm (on 19th November) November 2025 snowfall 43cm reported on 8 days December 2025 snowfall 33cm 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 Shiga Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Madarao region of Nagano New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 47cm Posted on Friday 5th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Madarao Now report can be found here . Quick one to keep track of the snowfall... Sunshine is forecast for the weekend. And the next snow beyond that due around Tuesday. Come on! Planned opening dates: Madarao: Saturday 13th December Tangram Ski Circus: Saturday 20th December Madarao Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 47cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 3 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 26cm (on 19th November) November 2025 snowfall 26cm reported on 1 day December 2025 snowfall 21cm 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 Madarao. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Geto Kogen region of Iwate New snowfall at base 77cm Snowfall at base this season 179cm Posted on Friday 5th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Wow. Good morning from an extremely snowy Geto Kogen. The last few days have been a bit mad. We've gone from hardly any snow at all, to over 2cm of snow being reported by the ski area up top (on their social media; the website says 100cm, but maybe that is not updated yet). Whatever, a lot of snow all of a sudden. And it is due to continue until this evening. And today is the start of the ski season here. Limited to start off, but with all this snow I would imagine other areas opening up pretty quickly. Very nice. --------------------------- Scheduled ski area operations: Number 1 Gondola A1 course Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): 100cm (top) 80cm (base) Geto Kogen Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 179cm Number of days snowfall observed 7 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 77cm (on 5th December) November 2025 snowfall 54cm observed on 5 days December 2025 snowfall 125cm observed 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 Geto Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 20cm Snowfall at base this season 39cm Posted on Friday 5th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Hello from Hakuba. It's all go here today! In a good way. Snow is coming down nicely now and we should have it for the day. Sun is forecast over the weekend. Should be fun! Tsugaike reporting 40cm of snowfall since yesterday and has of course been open for a few days already. After suddenly opening yesterday mid-morning, ABLE Hakuba Goryu opened from 8:15am this morning. Hakuba Happo-one plans to open from 11am this morning. Hakuba 47 will also open from around noon today - and offering a fair amount of terrain, as well. Official information is still rather scattered, and so I've decided not to post a list (it might be out of date / incorrect as soon as it is posted). The full details of operations will be in the report very soon. Anyway, exciting times, once again. Let's hope we have another great start to the ski season. For the moment, though, I have a few personal thoughts that are a bit less exciting... -------------------------------- Yesterday morning, Hakuba Goryu ski area suddenly announced that it would open at 10:30am (yesterday morning). The top Panorama course did indeed open, via the gondola and serviced by the Alps Number 1 lift. Great and exciting news, of course! Traditionally, ski areas have offered some cheap tickets early on when operations are limited. They often pitch it as a 'thank you', to celebrate opening. But to ‘celebrate’ what the ski area is calling a ‘special season’ (55th anniversary), rather than making some kind of attractive price for a very limited opening, they are actually asking people to pay 8,500 yen. *** checking details *** • One 850m long ski run (and with natural snow) • Open from 10:30am until 3:45pm • For 8,500 yen I can’t not comment on this. When I first saw it, I thought it was a joke. Sadly, it’s not. I am still struggling for words (that I can say in public), but this just seems so very... out of touch. I’m confident that any Japanese person seeing that price will be surprised and shocked - and perhaps have a few other feelings, too. I know all the arguments about foreign visitors thinking Japanese ski areas are relatively cheap, but it’s as if some popular ski areas are now completely ignoring the local domestic market - and slapping them in the face if they turn up. I can’t help but think that is not a good/wise idea. And don’t get me started on their charge for night skiing this season - 6,500 yen. As a quick comparison, I have just had a look back at my guidebook from the 2022-2023 season. A full 1-day lift ticket in peak season at Hakuba Goryu three years ago was 5,500 yen, and a night skiing ticket was 2,700 yen. It’s really no wonder there are increasingly loud disgruntled voices within Japan about how everything ‘inbound’ is pushing up prices and making life more difficult for locals. While the political rhetoric that has surfaced this year saddens and disappoints me on many levels, I can sometimes see where the feelings are coming from. I spent much of yesterday wondering if I’m over-reacting, but some chats with some Japanese friends (here in Hakuba and beyond), suggested I’m not. Sorry for the early season rant, but it felt necessary. Back to being excited. (I should mention that a 500 yen deposit is apparently included in the charges). Hakuba Now 2025-2026 season Data as Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 39cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 3 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 20cm (on 5th December) November 2025 snowfall 2cm reported on 1 day December 2025 snowfall 37cm 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 Hakuba. 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 Myoko region of Niigata New snowfall at base 17cm Snowfall at base this season 72cm Posted on Friday 5th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Myoko Now report can be found here . Just a quick pre-season note to keep our snow depths ongoing. It did snow through the day, and very lightly now, but we only got about 17cm of new. Good start to the month, though! Everyone got to try out their snowthrower (“Peter”, in the local slang, although I have no reason why). Mine started the year with a broken tensioning spring, so no hydraulics for a bit until the repairman came. Brand new last year (there’s always something to repair in snow country). Not going to belabor it much more, but I leave you with a much better photo of dog loving the snow (well, throwing some branch while running madly in the snow). It is fun to see; she goes just crazy running around in the snow. Like us. --- Resort opening schedule: Akakura Kanko: December 19 Akakura Onsen: December 13 Ikenotaira Onsen Alpen Blick December 13 Myoko Suginohara: December 13 Kyukamura RunRun: December 20 Seki Onsen: December 23 Tangram Madarao Tokyu Resort: December 20 Madarao Mountain Resort: December 13 Lotte Arai Resort: December 13 Kurohime Kogen Snow Park: December 24 (? Not entirely clear from website) Myoko Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 72cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 3 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (on 21st November) November 2025 snowfall 35cm reported on 1 day December 2025 snowfall 37cm 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 Myoko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 83cm Posted on Friday 5th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . Good morning skiers and boarders, Nice and cold and a bit of new snow, what more could you ask for? Well, more snow obviously, but we'll take this. Building up the base. It's supposed to snow most of the day here, so that's even better news. **Just to make sure everybody knows, the Furano Quad lift that was down most of last season and wreaked havoc has been fully repaired and is scheduled to open in late December, as per usual. Think snow. --- Ropeway, Lift D 8:30 -- 15:00 * Cannot ski to base. Ride Ropeway down. Furano Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 83cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 9 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 20cm (18th November) November 2025 snowfall 45cm reported on 5 days December 2025 snowfall 38cm 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 Furano. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 12cm Snowfall at base this season 70cm Good morning from Niseko. All sorts going on at the moment now that snow has arrived, but the main thing is that all five of the ski areas on the mountain are now part open from this morning. By that I mean all four of the Niseko United ski-jo plus Niseko Moiwa over to the west. I will be checking details every morning from now on, and adjusting the list below as necessary. Operations are very limited at this stage, so keep that in mind. A curious set of numbers from the ski areas as of 8:30am. Hirafu is claiming 120cm snow depth up top (nice!), but Annupuri a paltry 30cm. Let's give them time to bed in and get used to operations again. (I know the feeling). It is snowing lightly at the moment, but visibility seems fairly decent. Where I am anyway. It looks like there are rather a lot of people lining up for the base lift at Hanazono. The next snowfall of any significance seems to be due early week. Yesterday I shared some stats regarding how much snow had fallen by 4th December over the last decade or so. I thought it was nerdy stuff that might only interest me and a few other people, but it seems to have been interesting to quite a few of you. I'm glad I put it together. This season I will again be doing a monthly round-up again at the beginning of each month to keep an eye on how the season is developing. Anyway, if you were naughty and missed my report yesterday, you can find it here. ------------------------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 14cm Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 95cm Base: 55cm Lifts: Hanazono Number 1 Hanazono Number 2 quad Hanazono Gondola [to mid-point] Courses: Mango Salad Silver Dream Juicy Fruit ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 20cm Base: - Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 120cm Base: -cm Lifts: Ace Gondola Ace Number 3 pair Courses: Ace Gondola Ace Number 3 pair ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: ?cm Base: 15cm Lifts: Upper Village Gondola Village Express Community Chair ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 30cm Base: 40cm Lifts: Dream Number 1 quad ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: Number 2 pair lift Niseko Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 70cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 10 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (4th December) November 2025 snowfall 29cm reported on 7 days December 2025 snowfall 41cm 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 Nozawa Onsen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 36cm Posted on Friday 5th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . Hello from Nozawa Onsen. We still have snowy skies over the region, but not a huge amount of fresh to report since yesterday. The ski area itself is reporting 12cm of fresh to give a snow depth of 60cm up at Yamabiko. All being well, we will get some more during the day today. Over the weekend we are expecting sunny skies and a return to milder conditions, with the next snow due by Tuesday. Fingers crossed it won't warm up too much. Anyway, the ski area is planning on opening up Uenotaira today so operations are gradually expanding. ------------------------------ Fresh snowfall since yesterday morning (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 12cm Uenotaira: -cm Hikage: - Nagasaka: - Karasawa: - Official snow depth numbers (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 60cm Uenotaira: -cm Hikage: - Nagasaka: - Karasawa: - Lifts operating: Nagasaka Gondola (8:30am-3:30pm; last one down at 4:00pm) Yamabiko Four quad lift Yamabiko Number 2 Four quad lift Uenotaira Four quad lift Courses available: Yamabiko A Yamabiko B Yamabiko C Yamabiko D Yamabiko E Uenotaira (open once prepared) Notes: You need to get the gondola up to (and back down from) the open ski runs. All base areas are closed. Information on the ski area: Nozawa Onsen Nozawa Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Friday 5th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 36cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 3 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 16cm (on 4th December) November 2025 snowfall 15cm reported on 1 day December 2025 snowfall 21cm 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 Nozawa Onsen. 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