Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1163cm Posted on Friday 18th April 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Some thin cloud up there this morning but generally another fine start to the day here. It was rather chilly overnight actually - I'm seeing it was down to around -5 degrees - though a high of around 7 is expected. We have had one or two people ask about the snow depth numbers posted below. I have explained this in a previous report before in that they are the 'official' snow depth numbers that the resort publish each day. Is there a uniform 75cm at the base of the resort? Well, no. There's still very good cover of snow on the slopes, but as you can see from the images we post each day, there's places here and there where the snow has dried up and there's ground showing through. So just take the numbers with a pinch of finest salt, but we think it is interesting to have a record of the numbers throughout the season. Oh yes, someone else asked why we continue to post reports at this late stage of the season. The easy answer to that one is that we simply want to cover the entire Niseko season. Just because it's not peak season and it isn't snowing regularly now doesn't mean that Niseko is closed. There might not be much to report these days, but we'll be updating Niseko Now from time to time right through until the last day of the season. (I'll very much enjoy those first few lie-ins once the reports finish though!) --- Official snow depth numbers and planned operating lifts at time of writing: Grand Hirafu: Top - 300cm Base - 75cm Ace Number 2 Center Four lift King Number 3 Triple King Number 4 (* Hirafu Gondola will open only on 19th, 20th, 26th, 27th, 29th April and 3-6th May) Annupuri: Top - 310cm Base - 100cm Annupuri Gondola Jumbo No1 quad Jumbo No4 pair --- Niseko Annupuri plans to be at least part open until Tuesday 6th May. Niseko Grand Hirafu plans to be at least part open until Tuesday 6th May. -- Niseko Hanazono Resort is now closed for the season. Niseko Village is closed at the moment but plans to re-open between 26th April and 6th May (Golden Week). Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 18th April 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1163cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 101 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 178cm reported on 20 days March 2014 snowfall 113cm reported on 17 days April 2014 snowfall 13cm 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 1113cm Posted on Saturday 8th March 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Nearly another 20cm of snow this morning in Hirafu as this storm continues. If only there was less wind... yesterday the wind caused lots of lift disruption and this morning strong winds persist and top lifts are once again now open. The good news is that the wind should hopefully ease off during the day today, so fingers crossed that will be sooner than later. It remains cold and visibility is very limited in places this morning. If you brave the weather though you're likely to be rewarded by some great snow. Avalanche report advising people to stay on the slopes today and not take risks in these conditions. This snowfall is forecast to continue a while longer so I'll give you an update on that tomorrow. This first part of March is looking good indeed! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 30cm of fresh, developing snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: -12C, stormy, bad visibility, large development of unstable snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: W16m/s, -13C, developing snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -12C, snowdrifts and knolls growing big in Higashi-one. Peak 1308m: W17.6m/s, -16.3C. Coastal data: cape Benkei NW12m/s, cape Kamui W16m/s, 3.2m waves, 1005hPa. According to coastal data and present status, the wind is starting to calm down, however still strong and snowdrifts are continuing to grow. The avalanche risk in the Niseko range and the surrounding mountains is extreme. Snow-crystal needles brake under strong wind and forms heavy slabs of broken crystal snow. Characteristic of this snow is that it’s slow, catchy and not much spray. They are also very unstable, especially in steep slopes and can easily trigger a slide. Most accidents occur during and just after storms. Do not traverse across to the other side of the valley from gate 8 (located next to Annupuri gondola exit). Very hazardous today. Same for gate 4, do not traverse across to access backside Higashi-One. Let the storm pass and the snow stabilize before accessing the out of bounds areas. Accidents can be avoided by acknowledging the risks. Better stay inbounds today. All gates above 800m will be closed; do not duck ropes. This information is being written for the sake of all resort users. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 420cm Base - 210cm Niseko Village: Top - 390cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 390cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 8th March 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1113cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 86 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 178cm reported on 20 days March 2014 snowfall 76cm reported on 6 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 859cm Posted on Friday 31st January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Ah good, we are back to something colder this morning. Another 10cm of fresh snow to report this morning from the Hirafu village area and it's of a better (drier) quality than the snow I reported yesterday. As you can see in the Avalanche Report below, up to 20cm is being reported at higher elevations. Strong winds again spoiling the fun a bit this morning and it's blizzard conditions up on the mountain by the looks. For those braving conditions, make sure you know where you're going - visibility is low out there. The top lifts at each resort not opening as scheduled this morning due to the wind conditions.... winds of up to 21m/s reported by Annupuri, where the Gondola isn't moving either; the Gondola at Niseko Village is also on hold. Happy Chinese New Year to those celebrating! It's going to be a busy weekend. Tomorrow we'll look at the numbers for the season and the month of January and also see how they compare with last year. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6, 15cm new snow in last 12 hrs, snow drift development. Moiwa 800m: -9C, wind W16m/s , 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -11C, wind W20m/s, 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -7C, 20cm new snow, snow drift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -12.8℃, wind NW15.4m/s. Cape Benkei: NW20m/s, Cape Kamui: W14m/s, wave 2.1m, pressure 1001hPa. Isobars have moved closer together and the mountain is experiencing blizzard conditions. There has been major snow drift development and the avalanche risk is high on steep wind influenced slopes. From current observations it is expected the 28-29 layer will fracture easily generating slabs 80-120cm thick. Dont ride the valleys today. The forest is reset and good. Beware of cracks in the middle of slopes due to bad visibility, they are hard to see from above. Peak gates will be closed. Do not duck ropes to get fresh lines. Niseko Rules are here to protect all skiers safety and freedom. We strongly demand all riders read and understand the rules. Do not enter Haru no Taki, and Yu no Sawa Strictly Off Limits area, or Mizuno no sawa Special Control Area. Mountain is in good condition. Have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 395cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 335cm Base - 225cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 31st January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 859cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 60 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 849cm Posted on Thursday 30th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's another 10cm to report this morning at Hirafu base, but that's not the headline this morning. It's windy and warm. Well, warm for Niseko mid winter - currently just hanging around just under zero but due to warm up beyond that. As you might expect, that will affect snow conditions this morning. The south westerly winds are preventing the top Jumbo 4 lift at Annupuri, the Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland Chair at Niseko Village and the King 3 and 4, Ace 4, Hanazono 3 lifts at Hirafu and Hanazono from moving early on. Wind is expected to play with the lifts for the day, so that may well change. Snow showers expected through the day with more snow due overnight. Hopefully tomorrow will be colder and that's what the forecasts promise. Oh yes, looks like poor visibility today on the mountain with a foggy start to the day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 15cm low pressure snowfall in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -6C, wind , 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -7C, wind WSW15m/s, 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: no data. Annupuri peak 1308m: -6.1C, wind WNW8.6m/s. Cape Benkei: SSE6m/s, Cape Kamui: SSW24m/s, wave 2.1m, pressure 1004hPa. Temperature and SW wind rose with the passing of low pressure system. From observations this morning, till about 9am, the avalanche risk is low, but as the temperature rises today, the risk becomes HIGH from warm temp surface slabs. Below 1000m, steep slopes, under steep lift lines, narrow gullies should be avoided. Dont remain in the valley bottoms. Snow will be good this morning. Gate openings are yet to be decided. Please respect the Patrols decisions. Yesterday in Mizuno no sawa, there was large avalanche travelling approx 1000m. When conditions are right an avalanche will happen, if people are there it becomes an accident. You always need to make wise decisions in the mountains. This information is to help minimise accidents in uncontrolled areas out of the ski areas. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 185cm Niseko Village: Top - 335cm Base - 225cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Thursday 30th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 849cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 59 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 451cm 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 839cm Posted on Wednesday 29th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu and I have another 20cm or so to report. It's a cold morning and my initial impression is that the snow is lighter than what we had yesterday morning. It has been snowing lightly this morning though right at this moment has eased off. We might even get to see the sun according to the local forecast. Fresh snowfall and new layer of goodness aside, it's more about wind this morning though... Strong westerly winds on the mountain are affecting morning lift operations from the get go. At Annupuri, the Jumbo Number 3 and 4 as well as the Annupuri Gondola are on hold. At Niseko Village the Gondola and top Wonderland chair are not moving and here in the Hirafu area the top King 3 and 4 and Ace Number 4 lifts are not moving as well as the top Hanazono lift. Another mild spell due tomorrow but we should be back to cold come Friday. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 25cm crush snow crystals in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -14C, 30cm new snow, snow drift development. Annupuri 1150m: -16C, wind NW25m/s, major snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: poor visibility, snowdrift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -18.5℃, wind NW24m/s. Cape Benkei: NW18m/s, Cape Kamui: NW13m/s, wave 3.1m, pressure 1015hPa. Due to the current winter weather pattern there has been major development of unstable snowdrifts. The avalanche danger is very high today. Do not ride open steep slopes or cornice slopes today. Gate openings yet to be decided. Please respect the Patrols decisions. Do not traverse from Gate 8 across Osawa to ride under the cornice on the other side of the bowl. In February 1993, under similar conditions, Japan had its first snowboarder avalanche death on that slope at about elev 850m. The weather is expected to clear around noon, however snow stabilty will be delayed due to snowfall transition. The forest is reset but the snow will be a little slow. Beware hitting trees, getting stuck at the bottom. Note also it is hard to see cracks under knolls from above. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 335cm Base - 225cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 29th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 839cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 58 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 441cm 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 819cm Posted on Tuesday 28th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here More snow this morning, with close on 20cm of fresh to report from Hirafu. A bit heavy and wet by the looks of it, but hopefully that will fix up with the snow still coming down. Nice and cold, nice and snowy. Limited visibility on the mountain though but if that means fresh snow, I'm not sure too many will complain too much. Just be careful where you're going. Be prepared though as it's due to continue coming down through the day and into tomorrow. We might see a bit of a warm up around Thursday but should be back to snow and colder conditions from Friday once again. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 20cm new snow in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -6C, 30cm new snow. Annupuri 1150m: -6C, wind SW25m/s, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -6C, wind and poor visibility. Annupuri peak 1308m: -7.2℃, wind SSE5.8m/s. Cape Benkei: W12m/s, Cape Kamui: SSW22m/s, wave 1.9m, pressure 1003hPa. Rapid snow drift development with the increase of wind and snow as low pressure system passed. The avalanche risk above 800m is rising. Avoid riding open steep slopes, knolls and leeward slopes. Beware cracks are starting to appear under knowls. Take care riding slopes for the first time and falling into one. From current observations the avalanche risk is rising in Strictly Off Limit south facing slopes like Haru no Taki. Do not try to sneak past Patrol into these areas. Lately there have been many incidents of people ducking ropes. Niseko Rules are there for the safety of everyone. One person ducking the rope will lead others to follow. Ducking ropes is NEVER allowed in the Niseko area. When in Niseko, you must respect the Niseko Rules. Gate openings yet to be decided. Please respect the Patrols decisions. Today the snow in the trees is superb. Be aware of a sudden change in the weather. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 390cm Base - 185cm Niseko Village: Top - 330cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Tuesday 28th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 819cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 57 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 421cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 799cm Posted on Monday 27th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Lots of snow to report this morning from the snowy and windy day that we had here yesterday. There was 15cm outside my place this morning though as you can see on the Avalanche Report below they are saying 25-30cm. Definitely more than the 15cm that I have fell anyway. Which of course means that this morning there should be some very agreeable conditions to be found out there. Cloudy with light snow falling at the moment and just a light wind. Even some signs of the sun trying to peep through cloud in some places though the forecast is for cloud and sometime snow showers. Forecast for the week ahead is looking good at the moment with regular snow now lined up to the weekend. Might get a bit warmer around Thursday so need to keep an eye on that. It is of course a weekend but as I mentioned it is a busy period for Niseko with people celebrating the upcoming Chinese New Year arriving in numbers. Have fun everyone. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 25cm new snow in the last 12hrs, snow drift development. Moiwa 800m: -13C, wind N10m/s, 30cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -11C, wind W10m/s, major snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: no data. Annupuri peak 1308m: -17.3C, wind NNW12.1m/s, wind predicted to be WSW18m/s at noon. Cape Benkei: N9m/s, Cape Kamui: N8m/s, wave 2.4m, pressure 1020hPa. As low pressure system passed driving wind and snow from the North cause rapid snowdrift development. Wind is dropping at 1000m elevation, however from snowfall observation and data avalanche risk remains High. Gates 2,3,4 will be closed, others yet to be decided. Please respect the Patrols decisions. Potential fracture layer is expected to be Jan 25-26 layer and scale approx 80cm. Steep temperature gradient and pre-low pressure snowfall combine to make the snowdrifts unstable and easily collapse. Beware loose snow avalanche , avoid open steep slopes, leeward cornice slopes, knolls. It is dangerous to stop at the bottom or in gullies to take pictures from below. Avalanches always come from above. Snow in the trees is wind effected, but still good. Have a safe day. Dont duck Ropes. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 375cm Base - 180cm Niseko Village: Top - 330cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 27th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 799cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 56 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 401cm 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 2cm Snowfall at base this season 784cm Posted on Sunday 26th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu and a very happy Australia Day. I mentioned parties in the report yesterday. Of course, there were lots of those last night too. I have seen a few people with rather serious headaches walking about this morning already. Rise and shine! OK, on to the subject of snow. I have just a small amount to report this morning, just a few cm so not enough to cover up the tracks... but better than 0cm. Hopefully some will be added to that during the day today. The forecast is looking encouraging again Monday night onwards so hopefully we're going to click back into decent consistent snowfalls. Thick fog this morning is preventing top lifts from operating on the mountain - at the time of writing the King Number 3, King Number 4, Ace Number 3, Ace Number 4, Swinging Monkey, Hanazono Number 3 and Hanazono Number 2 lifts at Hirafu/Hanazono are waiting for conditions to improve. Also the Wonderland top lift at Niseko Village and the Jumbo Number 4 lift at Annupuri. Unfortunately there is no Avalanche Report available today. The usual take care obviously applies! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Not available today. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 330cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Sunday 26th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 784cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 55 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 386cm reported on 24 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 782cm Posted on Friday 24th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a few cm to report from Hirafu this morning so a thin layer of fresh. Light snow and overcast this morning but the forecast for the day is just cloudy. Keeping cold - overnight and early on anyway. It is forecast to warm up something this afternoon with a high of around +3 degrees likely in Kutchan town. It will be a relatively mild night as well and milder than usual conditions tomorrow. Just cloudy according to the forecast. By the beginning of next week though we should see a return to colder conditions. And of course hopefully that consistent large daily delivery of snow! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, 3cm new snow in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -8C, light winds. 5cm new crystal snow. Annupuri 1150m: -9C, wind W25m/s, no new snow, groomed runs firm. Hirafu 1000m: -12C. Annupuri peak 1308m: -10.9C, wind S2.7m/s, wind predicted to be W10m/s at noon. Cape Benkei: SSW5m/s, Cape Kamui: SSW16m/s, wave 1.6m, pressure 1016hPa. Gate opening times yet to be decided. Please listen the Patrols advice. The isobars are moving closer together and strong wind above 1100m, temperature will rise through the day. Snow pack above Jan 21st layer remains unstable and the risk of surface slab avalanches continues. Avoid knolls and cornice slopes. Avalanche risk is rising on open slopes and gladed trees. Accidents continue to occur off-piste. Avalanches are not the only danger in the mountains. Do not over estimate your skills or rely on technology. Fat skis are going to get you deep into the mountains but they are not going to save your life. The Jan 24 layer will become notable layer in the future snowpack. Snow pit check is not a ceremony, it is just one tool in assessing stability. Do not make decisions based solely on your snowpit assessment. There is not much new snowfall. Beware cracks, hitting trees. Have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 405cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 330cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 290cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 24th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 782cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 54 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 384cm reported on 23 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 20cm Snowfall at base this season 780cm Posted on Thursday 23rd January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Hirafu and today we have, 20-25cm of new snowfall down here in the village. As you can see from the Avalanche Report below, up to 40cm being reported at higher elevations. It should be a very fine morning and there's already a lot of people out getting on those first lifts of the day. One thing for sure is that it's a very cold one. Minus double digits as the lifts prepare to open. A moderate wind this morning but that does not seem to be affecting lift operations around the resorts from the get go, but might need to keep an eye on that later on as it's forecast to get stronger. The other thing for sure is that it's a beautiful morning. Nice blue skies over the mountains, with just a few clouds remaining. In the other direction Mt Yotei is looking splendid wearing a cloud 'hat' with no other clouds around. In recent years Niseko has become very popular during the Chinese New Year period with more and more visitors from overseas coming to enjoy that holiday here. This year will be no different and while the actual Chinese New Year is on 31st January, some of those visitors have started to arrive. We are truly entering peak season now. Let's hope the regular snowfall continues so everyone can get to enjoy refreshed conditions. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 25cm broken crystal snow in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -13C, wind W10m/s , 30cm new snow, major snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -16C, wind N13m/s, 30cm new snow, major snowdrift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -17.4C, wind NNW12.5m/s, wind predicted to be W15m/s at noon. Hirafu 1000m: -15C, 40cm new snow, snowdrift development. Cape Benkei: N10m/s, Cape Kamui: NE4m/s, wave 1.7m, pressure 1018hPa. Wind and snow continue to flow in from the north. Above 800m, major cornice and snowdrift development. Even if the sun comes out this morning the avalanche risk remains high today. Gates 2 and 3 will be closed, others yet to be decided. Please follows the Patrols advice. Lately there have been a lot of accidents in out of bounds areas. Dont over estimate your abilities because you have fat skis, take care of falling into cracks. Yesterday both Hirafu and Annupuri patrols rescued people in out of bounds areas, Osawa and Fujuwara no Sawa. The snow in the trees is good, however there is wind slab around. Today its best to look for fresh lines within the resort boundaries. Yesterdays Report noted Chinpoko rock at F7, however the area discussed to be avoided was at E7. Have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 405cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 330cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Thursday 23rd January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 780cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 53 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 382cm reported on 22 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 Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 2cm Posted on Sunday 30th November 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Good afternoon from Hakuba. It's a lovely day. Mild, too. But I have some news! Tsugaike Mountain Resort is going to open from tomorrow, Monday 1st December. The Gondola and Tsuga Number 2 pair lift will be operating, with the upper Tsuganomori run ski-able. And, indeed, snowboard-able, too!. We're still looking at a good chance of decent snowfall around Wednesday/Thursday. Expect a flurry of activity along with the arrival of snow! Hakuba Now 2025-2026 season Data as Sunday 30th November 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 2cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 1 day Most snowfall observed in 1 day 2cm (on 19th November) November 2025 snowfall 2cm 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 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 149cm Posted on Saturday 7th December 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Better news this morning as we have another 15cm of snow to report in Hirafu. It's colder too, so feeling much more winter-like than it has been this last week. Grand Hirafu has added 25cm to it's upper snow depth number this morning and as I mentioned last night there are opening the King Number 3 triple lift, Swinging Monkey lift and also the Gondola. With Hanazono opening this morning as well it means there's more choice for those getting out there - though still limited and remains upper areas only. That's all the resort news I can gather this morning. Expect more to gradually open as the snow arrives. Snow is forecast to continue today and into tomorrow - at the moment it is just snowing lightly. Little snowmen graphics are lined up on all of the forecasts for the coming week. Please do check the main page of the site and our Forums for news of the chance to win 10 Niseko Grand Hirafu / Hanazono lift tickets in the first SnowJapan Giveaway of the season. --- Lift operations (at time of writing): Grand Hirafu: Ace Family Pair Ace Number 3 Pair Ace Number 2 Quad Center Four (connecting only - can't ski to base) King Number 3 Triple Swinging Monkey Hirafu Gondola (connecting only - can't ski to base) Hanazono: Hanazono Number 1 lift (connecting only - can't ski to base) Hanazono Number 2 lift Hanazono Number 3 lift Niseko Village: Community Chair Banzai Chair Annupuri: Gondola Jumbo Number 3 --- Official snow depth numbers: Grand Hirafu: Top - 120cm Base - 55cm Hanazono: Top - 90cm Base - 50cm Niseko Village: Top - 60cm Base - 30cm Annupuri: Top - 70cm Base - 55cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 7th December 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 149cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 13 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 30cm (12th November) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 26cm 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