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 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 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 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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Geto Kogen region of Iwate New snowfall at base 21cm Snowfall at base this season 374cm Posted on Friday 27th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . It got colder yesterday and the snow arrived. We have a good 20cm of snowfall to report from base this morning. The ski area is reporting over 50cm on the mountain. The snow has been on and off with wind blowing the snow around too. As such, some very limited visibility at times. It is forecast to be windy today and in particular tonight. Lifts might be affected. 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) 165cm (base) Cumulative snowfall this season (reported by the ski area): 781cm 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 Friday 27th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 374cm Number of days snowfall observed 25 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 48cm (on 16th December) November 2024 snowfall 48cm observed on 5 days December 2024 snowfall 326cm observed 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 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 Zao region of Yamagata New snowfall at base 12cm Snowfall at base this season 154cm Posted on Friday 27th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . Morning from Zao. A bit of snow here and there yesterday. By night time it was windy and snowy, giving us 12cm of snow --- but windblown areas, so more and less in different places. Difficult to give just one number on a day like this. Thick fog on the mountain and light snowfall now with occasional wind gusts. The snowfall is set to continue for a couple of days at least. Official snow depth (reported by ski area): Yokokura area: 55cm Uwanodai area: 50cm Utopia area: 110cm Chuo area: 100cm Paradise area: 100cm Summit area: 90cm Zao Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Friday 27th December 2024 Total snowfall at base 154cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 21 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (on 6th December) November 2024 snowfall 18cm observed on 4 days December 2024 snowfall 136cm observed 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 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 Myoko region of Niigata New snowfall at base 43cm Snowfall at base this season 404cm Posted on Friday 27th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Myoko Now report can be found here . The snow has returned, a nice fall with mild temperatures and some pretty snowflakes. Mild enough that there’s a lot of water in the snow when shoveling the front porch etc. The snow paused a bit there a while ago, but it’s coming down steadily now—maybe two or more centimeters per hour. We’ve had a lot of trouble with lifts on the Akakura resorts. Champion No. 3, the lift that returns people to Akakan from the Akakura Onsen side, is back in service today. The Hotel No. 5 lift though, at the top of the resort, is not running. The Kumado No. 1 quad had some serious problem yesterday afternoon, enough so that they were actually lowering guests from some lifts on ropes (although power was restored a bit later). That lift is marked as being inspected right now, but hopefully it will be back in service. Akakura Kanko: 230cm, -4° Hotel No. 5 not running Akakura Onsen: 215cm, 2° Kumado No. 1 lift being inspected at the moment Ikenotaira Onsen Alpen Blick: 210cm, -2° Myoko Suginohara: 190cm top, 130cm base, -5° Kyukamura RunRun: 200cm, -6° Seki Onsen: 200cm, -3° Open Tangram Madarao Tokyu Resort: 150cm, -1° Madarao Mountain Resort: 200cm, -3° Lotte Arai Resort: 316cm, 1° Kurohime Kogen Snow Park: 170cm top, 120cm base; -3° (no new report) Myoko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Friday 27th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 404cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 17 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 43cm (23rd and 27th December) November 2024 snowfall 8cm reported on 1 day December 2024 snowfall 396cm reported on 16 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 Nozawa Onsen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 31cm Snowfall at base this season 223cm Posted on Friday 27th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . Greetings on this snowy Nozawa Onsen morning. A good 30cm of it around base areas with 50cm of fresh snow being reported by the ski area this morning. Very nice. It is going to remain colder today and more snow is expected though tomorrow and perhaps even into Sunday. More big numbers ahead! Visibility might be limited, especially on the upper areas of the mountain, but snow conditions should be really great. If you are here and heading out, take care out there (know where you are going) and enjoy. Fresh snowfall since yesterday afternoon (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 50cm Uenotaira: 50cm Hikage: 30cm Nagasaka: 30cm Karasawa: 20cm Official snow depth numbers (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 210cm Uenotaira: 180cm Hikage: 135cm Nagasaka: 135cm Karasawa: 100cm All lifts apart from the following are scheduled to be operating: Challenge pair Utopia pair Courses not yet open: Jumping Mukobayashi Challenge 39 Nozawa Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Friday 27th December 2024 Total snowfall at base 223cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 19 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 33cm (22nd December) November 2024 snowfall 3cm reported on 1 day December 2024 snowfall 220cm 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 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 Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 16cm Snowfall at base this season 255cm Posted on Friday 27th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Good morning from Hakuba. I have to post early this morning due to me having to get to Nagano Station (so too early for some official data). Quickly, the news from Hakuba is very good. Check out the snowfall being reported by the ski areas below... up to 50cm at upper elevations once again. (My base measurement is slightly under 16cm as of 7:45am) We certainly are being treated well this December. And check out Hakuba 47 snow depth... hitting 300cm. Have fun. Take care! Oh yes, by the way, I will be reporting more snowfall tomorrow morning. And perhaps a lot of it, too. -------------------------------- ABLE Hakuba Goryu New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Top: 50cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 290cm Top: 80cm ------------ Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park New snowfall (reported as 'todays snowfall' by the ski area): Top: 40cm Base: 15cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 300cm Base: 130cm ------------ Hakuba Cortina New snowfall (reported by the ski area): 30cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 240cm ------------ Hakuba Happo-one New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): ?cm Usagidaira (1400m): 36cm Nakiyama (800m): ?cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 170cm (not updated yet this morning) Usagidaira (1400m): 195cm Nakiyama (800m): 95cm Notes: Top Grad quad lift and course not yet available ------------ Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field New snowfall (reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: ?cm Village Side: ?cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Mountain Side: 150cm Village Side: 65cm ------------ Hakuba Norikura Onsen Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 240cm ------------ Jigatake New snowfall (reported by the ski area): 25cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 130cm ------------ Kashimayari Skijo Family Park Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 140cm ------------ Tsugaike Mountain Resort Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Upper: 247cm Base: 72cm ------------ White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): 165cm Hakuba Now 2024-2025 season Data as Friday 27th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 255cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 20 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (22nd December) November 2024 snowfall 42cm reported on 3 days December 2024 snowfall 213cm 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 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 4cm Snowfall at base this season 291cm Posted on Thursday 26th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is a fine morning with some cloud, blue sky and some atmospheric views of the sun by Mt Yotei. There has been some new cm of snowfall, though with the relatively warmer temps, it's a bit... on the wet side. So not the highest quality snow, but it is a lovely morning to be out and about. It should be starting to get colder and from tomorrow we should see a return more mid-winter like temperatures. Snowfall is forecast too, so a nice new fluffy layer seems likely. I look forward to reporting that to you tomorrow morning. ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base: +1℃, light wind and 10cm of humid snowfall. Moiwa 800m: -4.1℃, WNW5.7m/s (15m/s @ 2am). Annupuri 1100m: -6.0℃, WNW7.1m/s. Hanazono 1000m: -3.8℃, ESE4.2m/s (25m/s, @ 2am). Coastal data: Benkei cape NW14m/s, Kamui cape W11m/s, 1008hPa, 1.5m waves. No data from Mikaeri station. Warm air is being pushed northward with the upcoming low pressure system, bringing 10-15cm of wet snowfall in the past 6 hours. Gusts of southerly 25m/s were recorded at Hirafu 1000m elevation around 2am. 50cm thick surface slab avalanches are highly likely to occur in 30-40° slopes above 1000m, where new slabs have formed. Temperature has remained below freezing above 700m elevation and the wind shifted westerly after 2am. A humid snow with good rebound has blanketed the tree-runs. The winter pressure distribution will strengthen from now on and the avalanche risk will rise as the windload slabs start to develop above 1000m Annupuri O-sawa and Koan-no-sawa. The snow today is completely different from yesterday’s. The forest trees are frozen with wet snow. Gate 11 Mizuno-no-sawa is scheduled to open today. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Do not enter the Haru-no-taki area. Niseko is working on preventing accidents in the off-piste area, while keeping the freedom to ski powder a priority. There is no such thing as a safe winter mountain. Precautions and a scientific attitude are key to prevent accidents. Have a nice day. ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Thursday 26th 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: 5cm Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 180cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 140cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All four lifts 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: 10cm Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 210cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Base: 100cm (-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 (+10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts apart from Country Road are 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 (-10cm change since yesterday) Base: 110cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts are operating The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: All lifts are operating ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 23rd March 2025. Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Thursday 26th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 291cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 31 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 23cm (16th December) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 253cm 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 Zao region of Yamagata New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 142cm Posted on Thursday 26th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . Lovely bluebird day yesterday with a little snowfall in the evening. This morning has started very foggy with no additional snowfall. Just under 2cm and a bit on the wet side due to the warmer conditions. Colder conditions and snowfall expected across the next several days. Official snow depth (reported by ski area): Yokokura area: 50cm Uwanodai area: 50cm Utopia area: 110cm Chuo area: 90cm Paradise area: 90cm Summit area: 80cm Zao Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Thursday 26th December 2024 Total snowfall at base 142cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 20 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (on 6th December) November 2024 snowfall 18cm observed on 4 days December 2024 snowfall 124cm observed on 16 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 287cm Posted on Wednesday 25th December 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good afternoon from Niseko. It feels very odd writing my report at this time! But here we are on a fine Christmas day. After a less clear start, at lunchtime we have blue skies, we have some cloud and we have sunshine. Oh yes, we also have some top lifts moving from this morning. See the Avalanche Report below. And, oh yes, another 8cm of snow from yesterday. The snowfall as been rather modest and gradual over the last week or so, but perhaps from tonight and tomorrow we will get some larger numbers. In the meantime, I hope you all have a fine day wherever you are. See you tomorrow, probably at a more regular (and toast-friendly) time. ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base: -6℃, light wind, trace new snow, good visibility. Moiwa 800m: -8.0℃, NW5.4m/s, slight snowfall and slab development. Annupuri 1100m: -10.2℃, WNW5.0m/s, slight snowfall. Hanazono 1000m: -9.8℃, ENE2.1m/s 8cm new snow in the last 12hrs, slight slab development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NNW12m/s, Kamui Cape: W7m/s, 1022hPa, 0.9m waves, Mikaeri 750m: -8℃, WNW1.0m, slight snowfall, good visibility. No significant snowfall or slab development, and snow is stable. From the morning assessment, overall avalanche risk is low. Top lifts at Annupuri and Hirafu will operate for the first time for this season today, but it will take some time before the gates open. Do not ski in Annupuri Osawa or Fujiwara no Sawa just yet. One track ducking under the ropes can lead others to follow, and ultimately can lead to accidents. Respect Niseko rules. Avalanche accidents often occur by breaking slabs developed by snowstorms. Avoid skiing on steep slopes at the same time, which can cause accidents. Stay out of the gully bottom. You won't be caught in an avalanche if you’re not there. The snow condition continues to be excellent, especially in the forest. Watch out for crashing into trees. Have a great day. ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Wednesday 25th 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: 18cm Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 180cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 150cm (+8cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All four lifts 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: 220cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 110cm (+5cm 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: 100cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts apart from Country Road are 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 (no change since yesterday) Base: 120cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: All lifts are operating The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: All lifts are operating ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 23rd March 2025. Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Wednesday 25th December 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 287cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 30 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 23cm (16th December) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 249cm 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