Independent snow and weather reporting from the Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 318cm Posted on Monday 30th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . After more snow during the day yesterday, this morning we start with some blue sky. It has been a fine morning. Lots of visitors now; after all, it is peak New Year holiday time. We will probably get more snow tomorrow, possibly heavy at times, though it might clear up by New Years morning. Happy to report that the top Grad quad and course at Happo-one should be open today. Yey! But.... doesn't seem to be happening early on. Nor sure why. -------------------------------- ABLE Hakuba Goryu New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Top: 3cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 330cm Top: 120cm ------------ Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park New snowfall (reported as 'todays snowfall' by the ski area): Top: 0cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 350cm Base: 155cm ------------ Hakuba Cortina New snowfall (reported by the ski area): ?cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 305cm ------------ Hakuba Happo-one New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 0cm Usagidaira (1400m): 0cm Nakiyama (800m): 0cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 260cm Usagidaira (1400m): 233cm Nakiyama (800m): 125cm Notes: Top Grad quad lift and course... OPEN! ------------ Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field New snowfall (reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: 0cm Village Side: 0cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: 180cm Village Side: 90cm ------------ Hakuba Norikura Onsen Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 290cm ------------ Jigatake New snowfall (reported by the ski area): 0cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 170cm ------------ Kashimayari Skijo Family Park Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 180cm ------------ Tsugaike Mountain Resort Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Upper: 265cm Base: 85cm ------------ White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 210cm Hakuba Now 2024-2025 season Data as Monday 30th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 318cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 23 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (28th December) November 2024 snowfall 42cm reported on 3 days December 2024 snowfall 276cm reported on 20 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 17cm Snowfall at base this season 336cm Posted on Sunday 29th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Moderate snowfall as I write this, but looking at webcams it seems varied depending on where you are. So experiences may differ. All ski areas appear to be open as planned with a fair few people lining up for first lifts. Nice snow to enjoy. I forgot to remind you on Friday that Asahigaoka (the small ski area behind Kutchan Station) is now open. Please allow me a moment of off-topic babbling. Hope you don't mind. I have recently been researching a future personal trip for next summer and have come across various videos on YouTube. As I am sure lots of people similarly check out videos when researching a trip, I thought I’d share some of my thoughts. First, what is it with so many YouTube people addressing their audience as ‘you guys’ so much? And what’s with all the begging for subscriptions, liking and hitting the bell (whatever that is) - before I’ve even watched the video! Blimey, give me a chance to actually like something… before I ‘like it’. In my discussions with Mr SnowJapan over recent months/years, I have learnt that there has been a distinct increase in the number of self-proclaimed ‘influencers’ (in itself, cringeworthy) contacting SnowJapan. They often promise to write/record ‘favourable positive reviews of your ski area/hotel’, in return for a free stay, free lift tickets and other freebies. It’s important to note that SnowJapan is clearly not a hotel or ski area. (And, of course, such requests are ignored). These people generally promise a certain number of ‘followers’ and page/video views, etc, and, of course, a glowing review. The first thing is: clearly, some of these people are sending out emails without much or any thought, a scattergun approach, in the hope that they get some replies from places keen on the exposure. Whether it’s genuine or not. But also, how can you promise to write a favourable positive review before you have even been there? Unless it’s just made up, of course... in return for free stuff. Knowing all that and just how phoney some of these people sound anyway, I find that world to be rather insincere and lacking integrity. Unfortunately, that makes it increasingly difficult to know what to believe. I wonder, do some of those people start off with the best intentions and just get carried away with things when they become more successful? I think it’s important to acknowledge that some people making content do so with the utmost integrity and make high-quality and impressive content. I found some clearly ‘good guys’ in my own personal search. I applaud those people. (And I believe SnowJapan is very much one of those entities). Sadly, I suspect the number of people doing things right might be drowned out by the more cheesy and less honest approach. I dare not look at Niseko-related videos, of which I am sure there are many. I can only imagine how 'epic' it all must be! ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base -7℃, heavy snowfall, 25cm snowfall in 6hr. Moiwa 800m: -10.4℃, WNW7.2m/s, minor cornice development, soft slabs. Mikaeri 750m: -9℃, W4.6m/s, heavy snowfall, increasing snow depth, poor visibility. Annupuri 1100m: -12.3℃, W5.9m/s, heavy snowfall, 30cm soft slabs. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -11.8℃, SW2.9m/s, 30cm snow in the last 12hrs, light winds, heavy snowfall. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW18m/s, Kamui cape WSW9m/s, 1009kPa, wave 1.5m. Heavy snowfall starting around midnight, poor visibility at the base, light winds. Above 800m slow cornice development and 40cm soft slabs. In the morning tests there were no noticeable fractures and the avalanche risk below 900m is low. Snow is good in the forest, but deep. Be careful falling and suffocating. Riders are likely to trigger avalanches on 30 degree slopes like valley sidewalls. Stay away from the valley bottoms. Be especially careful making big turns on boards as they can have a large impact on the slope. Yesterday, one person was completely buried in Mikaeri Batten-Zawa, but was rescued by his friends, much to their relief. In hindsight they know the cause of the accident, but it is too late. The avalanche was caused by the breakage of a 30cm soft slab on the 12/27 low pressure layer. It is best not to ski on steep slab-like slopes or the side of a valley today either. There is no safety on the mountains in the middle of winter. Repeatedly making careless decisions will result in a brutal attitude adjustment. Is your beacon on? This information is provided for mountain safety. Have a nice day. ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Sunday 29th December 2024 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 20cm Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 212cm (+2cm change since yesterday) Base: 180cm (+5cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating The gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 30cm Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 240cm (+15cm change since yesterday) Base: 125cm (+15cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All scheduled lifts are operating apart from Ace Number 4 pair The Ace Gondola, Ace Family quad, King Gondola and King Holiday pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 150cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Base: 100cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts apart from Country Road are scheduled to be operating The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 180cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 130cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 23rd March 2025. Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Sunday 29th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 336cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 34 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 23cm (16th December) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 298cm 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 Geto Kogen region of Iwate New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 389cm Posted on Sunday 29th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Morning from Geto Kogen. Another 15cm of snowfall to report this morning. With that snow yesterday on the mountain, some fine snow to enjoy but it was also windy. It still snows and visibility is limited again this morning. Consistent snowfall lined up on forecasts, perhaps some sun at times tomorrow. Less wind would be great. Scheduled ski area operations: All main courses are open 3 tree run courses open: Heart, Garden and Rabbit Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): 250cm (top) 180cm (base) Cumulative snowfall this season (reported by the ski area): 836cm Other information: Night skiing is scheduled for weekends and holidays through 24th February 2025. The Number 2 Gondola is scheduled to normally only operate on weekends, holidays and over New Year (28th December through 5th January). Geto Kogen Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Sunday 29th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 389cm Number of days snowfall observed 26 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 48cm (on 16th December) November 2024 snowfall 48cm observed on 5 days December 2024 snowfall 341cm observed on 21 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 Nozawa Onsen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 41cm Snowfall at base this season 280cm Posted on Sunday 29th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . Yesterday afternoon the ski area was reporting 20-30cm of snow across the mountain since morning and this morning there's another up to 50cm being reported. See the numbers below. Very nice. Lots of fresh. Early morning we have limited visibility on lower areas - and better visibility up top. Head high! Sunny tomorrow morning? Fresh snowfall since yesterday (yesterday day time + overnight) (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 26+50cm Uenotaira: 28+50cm Hikage: 30+20cm Nagasaka: 30+20cm Karasawa: 20+15cm Official snow depth numbers (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 230cm Uenotaira: 200cm Hikage: 150cm Nagasaka: 145cm Karasawa: 125cm Lifts: All scheduled lifts are operating as planned Courses: All courses are available Nozawa Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Sunday 29th December 2024 Total snowfall at base 280cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 21 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 41cm (29th December) November 2024 snowfall 3cm reported on 1 day December 2024 snowfall 277cm reported on 20 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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Myoko region of Niigata New snowfall at base 45cm Snowfall at base this season 492cm Posted on Sunday 29th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Myoko Now report can be found here . The snow just keeps on falling, and consistently! One day of 43cm, yesterday at 43cm, today 45cm. Means there’s lots of snow out there. Can’t remember when we’ve entered the new year with more than two meters at most resorts; I have 216cm outside my reporting spot, and that is crazy. Lift problems have continued in the Akakura resorts, and your correspondent was stuck on one for one hour 20 minutes yesterday. It’s an old but main lift; it looked like the chairs were not detaching properly as the came down the mountain and into the lift station, so the lifties were hand-pulling them into position. It looked pretty dodgy, so I probably shouldn’t have gotten on (but that powder! One more run!). But I did. Lots of cold people getting off, but luckily getting a free cup of coffee at the lodge just off the lift. So that might be something to keep in mind, if the lift is really running poorly. Akakura Kanko: 230cm, -5° Akakura Onsen: 280cm, -2° Ikenotaira Onsen Alpen Blick: 220cm, -5° (yesterday’s report, which was only filed at 12:40pm) Myoko Suginohara: 210cm top, 170cm base, -7° (no new report) Kyukamura RunRun: 260cm, 0° Seki Onsen: 300cm, -6° (one meter overnight?) Open Tangram Madarao Tokyu Resort: 150cm, -3° All lifts now running Madarao Mountain Resort: 210cm, -4° Lotte Arai Resort: 403cm, -1° Kurohime Kogen Snow Park: 175cm top, 125cm base; -4° Myoko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Sunday 29th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 492cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 19 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 43cm (23rd, 27th and 28th December) November 2024 snowfall 8cm reported on 1 day December 2024 snowfall 484cm reported on 18 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 Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 308cm Posted on Sunday 29th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Good morning from Hakuba. It's snowing again. Not huge numbers from the ski areas this morning and I am actually reporting more. Probably as I am a bit late and their numbers are from earlier, as the snow has set in this morning. Had some chuckles reading the automated translation on Facebook from the Tsugaike account this morning: "You can enjoy Okinawa powder again today" (Well, I presume that is an automated translation. Not sure how to adjust that setting). Okinawa powder?! Funny. Easily the absolute worst part of doing these reports (I mostly love doing them) is... having to visit Facebook and Twitter/X accounts for certain information every morning. Gosh, I really dislike those things. Cameras at the ready for tomorrow - we will probably get clear skies and sun! -------------------------------- ABLE Hakuba Goryu New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Top: 5cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 320cm Top: 120cm ------------ Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park New snowfall (reported as 'todays snowfall' by the ski area): Top: 5cm Base: 5cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 340cm Base: 155cm ------------ Hakuba Cortina New snowfall (reported by the ski area): 15cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 300cm ------------ Hakuba Happo-one New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 15cm Usagidaira (1400m): 15cm Nakiyama (800m): 10cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 285cm Usagidaira (1400m): 250cm Nakiyama (800m): 120cm Notes: Top Grad quad lift and course not yet available ------------ Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field New snowfall (reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: 10cm Village Side: 10cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: 180cm Village Side: 90cm ------------ Hakuba Norikura Onsen Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 290cm ------------ Jigatake New snowfall (reported by the ski area): 10cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 170cm ------------ Kashimayari Skijo Family Park Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 160cm ------------ Tsugaike Mountain Resort Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Upper: 261cm Base: 81cm ------------ White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 200cm Hakuba Now 2024-2025 season Data as Sunday 29th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 308cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 22 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (28th December) November 2024 snowfall 42cm reported on 3 days December 2024 snowfall 266cm reported on 19 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 Zao region of Yamagata New snowfall at base 7cm Snowfall at base this season 161cm Posted on Saturday 28th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . Hello from Zao. Some fine conditions out there yesterday, though wind has been an issue. We had light snow falling in the evening. This morning it is cloudy down at base with limited visibility higher up and light snow being reported up there by the ski area. Official snow depth (reported by ski area): Yokokura area: 55cm Uwanodai area: 50cm Utopia area: 120cm Chuo area: 100cm Paradise area: 100cm Summit area: 90cm Zao Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Saturday 28th December 2024 Total snowfall at base 161cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 22 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (on 6th December) November 2024 snowfall 18cm observed on 4 days December 2024 snowfall 143cm observed on 18 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 Zao 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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Nozawa Onsen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 16cm Snowfall at base this season 239cm Posted on Saturday 28th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . Ski area reporting 30cm since yesterday afternoon (sorry, I was not able to check on any mid-day numbers) but there is another good thick layer of snow out there. A more modest amount down at base. This morning the ski area is officially 'fully open with all courses available. It's snowing still and expected to continue into tomorrow, possibly heavy at times. There will be more to report tomorrow! For those hoping to see more of the mountain, perhaps we might get some clearer skies and sunshine on Monday. Fresh snowfall since yesterday afternoon (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 30cm Uenotaira: 30cm Hikage: ?cm Nagasaka: ?cm Karasawa: ?cm Official snow depth numbers (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 230cm Uenotaira: 200cm Hikage: 150cm Nagasaka: 145cm Karasawa: 125cm Lifts: All scheduled lifts are operating as planned Courses: All courses are available Nozawa Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Saturday 28th December 2024 Total snowfall at base 239cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 20 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 33cm (22nd December) November 2024 snowfall 3cm reported on 1 day December 2024 snowfall 236cm reported on 19 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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Myoko region of Niigata New snowfall at base 43cm Snowfall at base this season 447cm Posted on Saturday 28th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Myoko Now report can be found here . Lots of snow all through the day, so lots of nice loose stuff out there to get stuck in (go with a friend if you’re going outside the resort!). Exactly the same total as yesterday; I know some may doubt this, but the data is collected using—wait for it—proven scientific methods! I can only report what the snow board and ruler tell me... But plenty of snow, no doubt about it as we enter the year-end holidays and many more people coming to visit. Lots of tired locals, too, but we’re getting back in the snow-removal rhythm. Fun to wake up to something like an earthquake as snow slides off the roof, shaking the whole house. Been a couple years without that, and lightning and thunder to accompany that heavy snow. Oh, yeah, ongoing lift problems at both Akakura resorts yesterday. There’s some old equipment out there, no doubt about it, but I hope the mechanics have been out there overnight getting the lifts back in form. Akakura Kanko: 230cm, -4° (no new report) Akakura Onsen: 245cm, -2° Ikenotaira Onsen Alpen Blick: 210cm, -2° (no new report) Myoko Suginohara: 190cm top, 130cm base, -5° (no new report) Kyukamura RunRun: 200cm, -1° Seki Onsen: 200cm, -6° Open Tangram Madarao Tokyu Resort: 150cm, -3° Madarao Mountain Resort: 210cm, -4° Lotte Arai Resort: 368cm, -1° Kurohime Kogen Snow Park: 170cm top, 120cm base; -3° Myoko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Saturday 28th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 447cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 18 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 43cm (23rd, 27th and 28th December) November 2024 snowfall 8cm reported on 1 day December 2024 snowfall 439cm reported on 17 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 Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 38cm Snowfall at base this season 293cm Posted on Saturday 28th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . The really good snow news just keeps on coming this season! We're still in December, it makes me wonder how the whole season will shape up. But we sure have got off to a flying start. Anyway, just look at the numbers being reported by the ski areas in the list below. They are consistently reporting 30-50cm of fresh on upper elevations. And the snow depth numbers are rising above 3m at some. My own fresh snow measurement from base since yesterday morning (as of 8am) is 38cm. It is still snowing. I don't think many further words are necessary. I am very happy for everyone able to be here to enjoy this. Those hoping for clear skies and sunshine might be hoping for a break in the snow! (Maybe on Monday?) Those of you reading this with an upcoming trip must also be very excited about getting here. I'm excited for you! -------------------------------- ABLE Hakuba Goryu New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Top: 45cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 310cm Top: 120cm ------------ Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park New snowfall (reported as 'todays snowfall' by the ski area): Top: 50cm Base: 20cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 340cm Base: 150cm ------------ Hakuba Cortina New snowfall (reported by the ski area): 50cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 290cm ------------ Hakuba Happo-one New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 40cm Usagidaira (1400m): 40cm Nakiyama (800m): 10cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 280cm Usagidaira (1400m): 250cm Nakiyama (800m): 110cm Notes: Top Grad quad lift and course not yet available ------------ Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field New snowfall (reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: 30cm Village Side: 20cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: 180cm Village Side: 80cm ------------ Hakuba Norikura Onsen Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 285cm ------------ Jigatake New snowfall (reported by the ski area): 30cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 150cm ------------ Kashimayari Skijo Family Park Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 160cm ------------ Tsugaike Mountain Resort Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Upper: 263cm Base: 80cm ------------ White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 200cm Hakuba Now 2024-2025 season Data as Saturday 28th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 293cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 21 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (28th December) November 2024 snowfall 42cm reported on 3 days December 2024 snowfall 251cm reported on 18 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 12cm Snowfall at base this season 319cm Posted on Saturday 28th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Early on it is cloudy with some blue sky and the sun peeking through at times. Nice and cold and all scheduled lifts are starting the day as planned. All lifts are now moving apart from the (lazy) Country Road at Niseko Village and the top Ace Number 4 pair lift at Niseko Hirafu. Access to the top of the mountain is available, but not all gates as yet. Weekly forecasts show snow never been that far away, though I'd say it looks more 'gradual and steady', rather than 'full-on and crazy'. Regular top-ups of fresh snow are important everywhere; more so in places that attract many people! Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village are once again reporting '0cm' of new snowfall on the official Niseko United website this morning. I'm almost tempted to keep a closer eye on that data and see how often they actually report any snowfall. I remain curious why they almost never seen to report snowfall though. You'd think it might be an exciting thing to report! But anyway, that is the reason why I do not include that information on my reports (below). It is just too unreliable (in my opinion). On the other hand, I observe that Hanazono seems to be going big with the snowfall numbers that it reports in recent days. I trust they are not porkies, but 35cm at base since yesterday? Hmmm. ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base -9℃, 15cm snowfall in 12h, calm. Moiwa 800m: -11.6℃, NNW6.4m/s (20m/s @ 0am, wind dropped after 5am). Annupuri 1100m: -14.2℃, WNW8.1m/s, strong wind and good visibility. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -13.9℃, SSW2.4m/s. Mikaeri 750m: -10℃, WNW3.0m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW11m/s (peaked 11pm), Kamui cape W7m/s, 1005kPa, 2.0m waves, wind peaked 5pm yesterday. The NW wind remains strong above 1000m elevation, making windload slabs develop. Surface slab avalanche risk remains high in high elevation SE aspects of Annupuri O-sawa (cornice slopes) and Kozan no Sawa (Backbowl). Those areas are still closed, refrain from crossing ropes to enter O-sawa (Annupuri bowl). Backbowl’s high sidewalls should also be left untouched at least during the morning. If it lets go, it could be a large one. Gate 2 & 3 should be ready the day after tomorrow. Please respect the ski patrol and do not duck ropes to go out of bounds. The snow below 900m is a little heavy, wind-affected and forming soft slabs, but is amazing to ski. Niseko respects your freedom to ride powder, so please respect back the Niseko Rules. There’s no guaranteed safety in winter mountains. Guides and group leaders have a big responsibility. Make sure to choose the right course for the team’s skill level. Is your beacon switched on? Have a great day. ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Saturday 28th December 2024 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 30cm Base: 35cm (sounds great!) Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 210cm (+20cm change since yesterday) Base: 175cm (+20cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating The gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 20cm Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 225cm (+5cm change since yesterday) Base: 110cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: All scheduled lifts are operating apart from Ace Number 4 pair The Ace Gondola, Ace Family quad, King Gondola and King Holiday pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 160cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 110cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts apart from Country Road are scheduled to be operating The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 170cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 120cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 23rd March 2025. Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Saturday 28th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 319cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 33 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 23cm (16th December) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 281cm 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 16cm Snowfall at base this season 307cm Posted on Friday 27th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. I am happy to report improved conditions this morning. It is noticeably colder this morning and I have also noticed 18cm of snow at my measuring point. One tends to notice these things! What's more, it is snowing very nicely just at the moment. That means limited visibility, but we need to put up with that at times to receive the precious goods. I am hoping wind isn't going to be too pesky, though note that the Annupuri gondola is not opening on time. Otherwise, lifts seem to be moving as planned. Actually, let me update that in real-time... just as I was about to publish this report, all top lifts are now showing as being on standby. The snow is forecast to continue through tomorrow and perhaps Sunday too. We should be ending the year with fine conditions. As it should be. ---------- I noticed an interesting comment on the Yuzawa Now report yesterday about staff shortages at ski areas that is (potentially) preventing some ski lifts from opening: This subject is still regularly mentioned in local and national media. Apparently, the staff shortage issue of recent years is still real here in Japan. Perhaps even getting more severe? I remember hearing last year how the hourly pay rate for part-time work, particularly here, had been dramatically increasing to entice people to come. You'd think that would indeed encourage people to come and work here. Perhaps it has. I'm sure there are more than enough foreign types who would be very excite at the prospect of living here over winter and getting to ski often. And I would guess some Japanese people would value the 'overseas work experience' of working in Niseko! (Ba-dum tish!) Not being 'in business' myself, my only experience of all this is as a customer. I don't stop for lunch or drinks at the ski areas and obviously don't stay in hotels, etc., so I don't have any personal experience of how busy and understaffed those services might be this season. (Keen to hear any stories if you want to share them). Sorry, I'm being a bit useless on this particular issue, aren't I?! Perhaps I should stick to talking about toast. We are now in the last handful of days in 2024 and the run-up to New Year. There are lots of people around, as you might expect. Before we know it, it will be January as we get into the 'peak season' territory, both in terms of number of visitors and, usually, snow. No longer does the 'early season' phrase apply. (* If you look at lift ticket prices, 'early season' finished on 13th December! :) Here's to continued regular snowfall and very fine conditions throughout the season. ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base -8℃, 15cm snowfall in 12h, wind-affected snow. Moiwa 800m: -12.4℃, NW9.5m/s (20m/s @ 4am), snowpack is growing and slabs are developing. Mikaeri 750m: -11℃, WNW6.1m/s, slabs developing, 280cm snowpack. Annupuri 1100m: -15.1℃, WNW 10.6m¥s, strong winds developing 100cm slabs and cornices. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -14.6℃, ESE3.8m/s, windload snowpack growing. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW18m/s, Kamui cape W13m/s, 1004, 2.1m waves. The isobaric line width is narrow but the wave height did not rise as much as expected. 20m/s westerly wind is constantly blowing above 900m elevation, developing wind-affected slabs. No notable fractures have been observed this morning, however the avalanche risk in SE 1000m cornice slopes will rise as the snowfall strengthens and the slabs grow thicker. The snow in the Tree-runs is getting better. Don’t stay put at the gully bottoms, don’t party-run on questionable slopes, don’t traverse under cornices and be flexible with your plans. The westerly wind is cold, beware of frostbites on your left cheek. Wishful thinking can sometimes lead to accidents. Don’t be overconfident and plan according to numerical data. Numbers are facts. The snow is pretty good, but the visibility is bad. Have an awesome day. ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Friday 27th December 2024 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day at the time of writing. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 15cm Base: 25cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 190cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 155cm (+15cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All four lifts are scheduled to be operating The gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 20cm Base: 15cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 220cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 110cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All scheduled lifts are operating apart from Ace Number 4 pair The Ace Gondola, Ace Family quad, King Gondola and King Holiday pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 160cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 110cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts apart from Country Road are scheduled to be operating The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 170cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 110cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: All lifts are scheduled to be operating ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 23rd March 2025. Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Friday 27th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 307cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 32 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 23cm (16th December) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 269cm 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