Independent snow and weather reporting from the Shiga Kogen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 339cm Posted on Monday 22nd January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Shiga Kogen Now report can be found here . After the storm, the calm. It's quite sunny too as well. Hopefully, from tomorrow the temps will be dropping and we will get a proper mid-winter storm that brings us lots of fresh snowfall. Forecasts promise snow from tomorrow through Thursday and, possibly, quite a lot. Wind might also be an issue and it does seem like Wednesday is going to be the peak of the coming storm. Shiga Kogen Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Monday 22nd January 2024 Total snowfall at base 339cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 35 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 50cm (16th January) November 2023 snowfall 32cm reported on 8 days December 2023 snowfall 95cm reported on 13 days January 2024 snowfall 212cm reported on 14 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Shiga Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 9cm Snowfall at base this season 629cm Posted on Monday 22nd January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. Around 10cm of new snow to report since yesterday. As I write this there is some very (very) (very) light snow falling. It's almost nothing, but it might turn into something during the day. It doesn't feel that cold this morning. Wind is an issue this morning and at the start of the day top lifts at Hirafu, Village and Annupuri are on hold. Anyway, we are still expecting consistent snowfall during this week so let's see what happens. ------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base 6am: -5C, light breeze, 10cm snowfall. Moiwa 800m: -14.7C, SE4.6m/s, snowdrift development overnight. Mikaeri 764m: -7C, easterly wind and snow, poor visibility. Annupuri 1100m: -8.5C, SE4.7m/s, snowdrift development. Village 1000m: -7.6C, SSE5.1m/s. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -8.1C, S12.2m/s, trace new snow. Hanazono#3: -6C, SW7.6m/s. Coastal data: S6m/s, Kamui cape ENE7m/s, 1022hPa, 0.7m waves. Strong southerly winds are blowing on the higher levels as the low pressure system is approaching. Snowdrift development on the slopes above 800m elevation overnight due to the strong easterly wind with low pressure snowfall. Some of them developed 100cm. From the weather data, avalanche risk is low in the morning, however the gates above 1000m elevation will be closed to prevent avalanche accidents. Gate #5 is not yet decided. Wind creates cornices and leeward slopes are avalanche nests. Whether it's low pressure system snowfall or winterly system snowfall, rapid snowdrifts development and slabs cause avalanches. If there is wind, notable slabs can start to form even without snowfall. Snow in the tree runs is excellent. Poor visibility on the slopes around 800m elevation due to the air mass displacement. Beware of the sudden change of weather. Is your beacon on? We can prevent most of the accidents if we are careful. Have a good day. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Monday 22nd January 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 and subject to change. *** Top lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to wind *** 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: 300cm (-10cm since yesterday) - Base: 120cm (-10cm since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts operating apart from Ace Number 1 pair, King Number 1 pair and King Number 2 quad - The Ace Family quad, Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four), Hirafu Gondola and Holiday Number 1 pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 1cm - Base: 8cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 240cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 175cm (-5cm since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts operating - The Hanazono Symphony Gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 210cm (+10cm since yesterday) - Base: 180cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts operating - The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 233cm (+18cm since yesterday) - Base: 154cm (-1cm since yesterday) Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts operating apart from Country Road - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts (scheduled): - All lifts operating ------------------ Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 20th March 2024. Night skiing is usually until 7:00pm at Hirafu, Hanazono, Village and until 7:30pm at Annupuri. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Monday 22nd January 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 629cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 54 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 262cm 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 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 7cm Snowfall at base this season 668cm Posted on Sunday 21st January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Good morning from Geto Kogen. OK so we got some snow overnight with 5+cm around base and the ski are reporting over 15cm in higher areas. Hopefully the snow will continue through the day. Visibility looks limited at the start of the day. I haven't heard any more regarding that mechanical issue I talked about yesterday. Night skiing again today. Lifts operating (planned): All scheduled lifts operating. Runs open (planned): Most of the main runs should be open with some restrictions. Scheduled to open tree runs: Heart. Possibly others subject to checks. All subject to change due to conditions! Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): 235cm (top) 165cm (base) Geto Kogen Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Sunday 21st January 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 668cm Number of days snowfall observed 35 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 73cm (on 30th November) November 2023 snowfall 138cm observed on 5 days December 2023 snowfall 243cm observed on 16 days January 2024 snowfall 287cm observed on 14 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 196cm Posted on Sunday 21st January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . Morning from Zao. There is a very wet snow falling right now. It is more snow than rain. 3cm from around Uwanodai base but probably more than that on the mountain. Also a lot of fog around halfway up the mountain and limited visibility. Some blowy winds are being reported from the top area too. Anyway this snow started about 1.5 hours ago, and is still continuing. Hopefully it will continue. Ski area operations: Zao Onsen is now mostly open with just a few restrictions. Night skiing with the Onsen Number 1 pair (9:00pm) and Onsen Number 2 quad (8:45pm) scheduled to be operating. Official snow depth (reported by ski area): Yokokura area: 45cm Uwanodai area: 50cm Utopia area: 70cm Chuo area: 90cm Paradise area: 90cm Summit area: 60cm Zao Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Sunday 21st January 2024 Total snowfall at base 196cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 31 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 20cm (on 16th January) November 2023 snowfall 32cm observed on 4 days December 2023 snowfall 66cm observed on 14 days January 2024 snowfall 98cm observed on 13 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 Shiga Kogen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 337cm Posted on Sunday 21st January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Shiga Kogen Now report can be found here . Shiga Kogen for the win! It's not a huge victory, but it is snowing up here while places at lower elevations are suffering some rain this morning. As expected really. It's quite windy too. Some lifts might well be affected by the conditions this morning. Check before heading out. It doesn't feel that cold this morning and in fact some ski areas reporting temps above 0C. For some good old traditional Shiga Kogen cold conditions, that will happen from Tuesday onwards. Good snowfall predicted too... Shiga Kogen Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Sunday 21st January 2024 Total snowfall at base 337cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 34 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 50cm (16th January) November 2023 snowfall 32cm reported on 8 days December 2023 snowfall 95cm reported on 13 days January 2024 snowfall 210cm reported on 13 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Shiga Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 620cm Posted on Sunday 21st January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here We did have periods of sunshine yesterday, with just a dusting of snow since yesterday, really; but enough that I can just about justify 1cm in this report. (Hirafu seem to be reporting up to 10cm). It is a pretty cold and calm early morning with a lot of cloud. Forecasts are looking good for some consistent snowfall across the coming week, with the good stuff perhaps starting from later on in the day tomorrow. Anyone else get to ride Annupuri Jumbo Number 4 yesterday? Good to see it open. :) ------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain Base 6am: -7°, no new snow, calm. Moiwa 800m: -14.9, SE2.3m/s. Mikaeri 764m: -11°, no new snow, snow depth 240cm. Annupuri 1100m: -9.2°, SSE5.1m/s. Village 1000m: -8.0°, ESE4.2m/s. Hanazono 1000m: -9.1°, S7.4m/s. Hanazono 3 : -7.3°, WNW0.3m/s. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: ESE3m/s. Kamui Cape ENE11m/s, 1031hPa, wave 0.8m. A low-pressure system is approaching and the sea and mountains are calm at the moment, however the wind speed at Cape Kamui is rapidly increasing. The wind from the east is expect to strengthen and the weather deteriorate. The snow is still good though. More than 1,000 people climbed the peak yesterday and no accidents were reported. On the other hand, the number of accidents on the slopes is increasing, which is worrying ski patrol. Niseko rules are about riding safely out of bounds, but there is also inbounds rules that should be followed. Accidents can be reduced if everyone is careful. There is no safety in the mountains. Peak gates are expected to be open. Better have a beacon. You can go without one but please get one for next time. If you have one, you can save your friends buried in the snow. Do not duck the ropes. If one person does it others will follow in their tracks and an accident will eventually occur. Be careful of sudden weather changes. have a nice day. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Sunday 21st January 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 and subject to change. 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: 310cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 130cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating apart from Ace Number 1 pair, King Number 1 pair and King Number 2 quad - The Ace Family quad, Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four), Hirafu Gondola and Holiday Number 1 pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ 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: 240cm (-10cm since yesterday) - Base: 180cm (-1cm since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating - The Hanazono Symphony Gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 200cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 180cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating - The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 215cm (-4cm since yesterday) - Base: 155cm (-4cm since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating apart from Country Road - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: - All lifts operating Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Sunday 21st January 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 620cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 53 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 253cm 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 Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Nozawa Onsen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 269cm Posted on Saturday 20th January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . Clouds hung around yesterday rather than a general clear up, and we have another cloudy kind of start to the weekend. Visibility in some places mid-mountain very limited, but it might be an early morning thing, with low clouds over the valley. Perhaps there might be a little rain or snow later on tonight. I'm hoping the former will hold off. (Forecasts are varied/mixed). We might not be so lucky during the day tomorrow, unfortunately. These milder spells between the snow are... kind of annoying. Anyway, Tuesday onwards is looking promising with a few days of snowfall currently on the forecast. A full on winter storm would be most welcome. There will be a lot of people around this weekend. I hope you have a good one if you are here! (Go say hi to Naski!) Fresh snowfall since yesterday morning (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 0cm Uenotaira: 0cm Hikage: 0cm Nagasaka: 0cm Karasawa: 0cm Official snow depth numbers (reported by the ski area): Yamabiko: 190cm Uenotaira: 150cm Hikage: 100cm Nagasaka: 85cm Karasawa: 65cm All lifts apart from the following are scheduled to be operating: Kandahar All courses apart from the following are now open: Kandahar Challenge 39 Mukobayashi Hachiman Nozawa Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Saturday 20th January 2024 Total snowfall at base 269cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 21 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 64cm (23rd December) November 2023 snowfall 21cm reported on 2 days December 2023 snowfall 93cm reported on 10 days January 2024 snowfall 155cm reported on 9 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 16cm Snowfall at base this season 619cm Posted on Saturday 20th January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. Ah, the weekend. And what better way to start than being able to sample some lovely surprise fresh snow. (After the toast, of course). I have 16cm of snowfall to report this morning. And it snowing nicely now too, though it might not last - some forecasts show some blue sky and sun during the day today. And... the coming week has consistent snowfall on the forecasts. All is good. The top Jumbo Number 4 lift at Annupuri will, at long last, be open this morning from 9:30am. Hurray! ------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain Base 6am: -5°, calm, 20cm new snow, light winds. Moiwa 800m: -17.2°, NW3.7m/s(max 18m/s @ 2am). Mikaeri Live Camera 764m: -10°, slow snowdrift development, good visibility. Annupuri 1100m: -12.2°, WNW1.9m/s, 30cm new snow. Village 1000m: -10.8°, WNW1.9m/s. Hanazono 1000m: -11.8°, NNE2.9m/s. Hanazono 3 : -9.1°, NNE8m/s, 30cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW7m/s. Kamui Cape NNW2m/s, 1033hPa, wave 0.7m. We are currently under a high pressure system with a gentle pressure gradient, the sea and mountains are calm. Up to 40cm of snow fell overnight with no significant snow drift development. The general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates 2 and 3 are expected to be open. Please follow the patrols instructions. Do not duck ropes to go out of bounds- use the gates. Do not enter Strictly Off Limits areas Haru no Taki or YunoSawa. Avoid getting caught in an avalanche- do not traverse under cornices or have multiple riders on the slope at the same time. Ride the fall line. Don't wait around in gullies or the valley bottoms, avalanches follow the these lines. The snow might be good today? Have a nice day. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Saturday 20th January 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 and subject to change. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 20cm - Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 310cm (+10cm since yesterday) - Base: 130cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating apart from Ace Number 1 pair, King Number 1 pair and King Number 2 quad - The Ace Family quad, Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four), Hirafu Gondola and Holiday Number 1 pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 17cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 250cm (+15cm since yesterday) - Base: 181cm (+1cm since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating - The Hanazono Symphony Gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 200cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 180cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating (hurray!) - The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 219cm - Base: 159cm Lifts: - All lifts operating apart from Country Road - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: - All lifts operating ------------------ Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Wednesday 20th March 2024. Night skiing is usually until 7:00pm at Hirafu, Hanazono, Village and until 7:30pm at Annupuri. Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Saturday 20th January 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 619cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 52 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 252cm 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 Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Shiga Kogen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 336cm Posted on Friday 19th January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Shiga Kogen Now report can be found here . Yesterday we got that light snow, though it was sleet/rain at times in some of the lower areas. Today started with lots of cloud but it has been gradually clearing and while there's still a fair amount of cloud around, it's sunny in places. Check the images below to get an idea. The gradual clearing might continue. The Number 1 gondola at Yakebitaiyama is experiencing some issues this morning and will be closed at the start of the day. We might receive fresh snow later tomorrow and into Sunday and then again around the middle of next week. Shiga Kogen Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Friday 19th January 2024 Total snowfall at base 336cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 33 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 50cm (16th January) November 2023 snowfall 32cm reported on 8 days December 2023 snowfall 95cm reported on 13 days January 2024 snowfall 209cm reported on 12 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Shiga Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 603cm Posted on Friday 19th January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's another lovely start this morning. Blue sky, sun, cloud, shadows. I wonder if the blue sky will last today? I have a dusting of snow to report and can just about justify the 2cm in this report. The Niseko Village ski area webcam is shaking around as if there's a major earthquake happening at the moment (there isn't), so it looks quite windy at least in that location. I can't say it feels that windy where I am. Curious. Yesterday I mentioned that the top (Jumbo Number 4) lift at Annupuri might open from today. Well, it seems like it has been delayed again. Doh! The ski area is now saying that the lift is 'expected to start after 20th January'. I don't know what is going on there. ------------------ I have recently heard a few comments (on the ground, here) about Niseko being very busy. In some ways, with all the information available, I do find this rather odd. It is not a secret that Niseko is an extremely popular destination. That's largely due to the generally lovely and consistent snow conditions that it enjoys. It's also partly due to lots of marketing - which is, of course, made easier by the generally lovely and consistent snow conditions that it enjoys. If you are visiting Niseko, you should expect it to be busy. So if many other people around you and busy places annoy you, I might suggest that Niseko is not the right place for you. There are literally hundreds of ski areas in Japan, and, believe it or not, many of them are uncrowded and very quiet. (One example that got me on this line of thought: I was reading this recent review and photos from a ski area called Muikamachi Hakkaisan in Niigata Prefecture, where the reviewer commented that it was almost spookily quiet). Hundreds of ski areas are not necessarily quiet because they are rubbish. (Though some might be, it depends on what you like). It's just that they are not the focus of attention. Or they are not quite as convenient to get to. Or that they are just small, modest local places. Most of them are nothing like Niseko (which is very much far from being your 'average Japanese ski area') and offer a totally different experience. Some are even free to use! It all depends on what is important to you, and everyone has their own priorities. Many will still choose Niseko, with the lure of the snow quality just too much to resist. :) I'm just saying that if you want to experience quiet, traditional Japanese ski areas, you have a huge amount of choices available to you. I recommend starting your research on this website. ------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain Base 6am: -5°, trace new snow. Moiwa 800m: -16.2°(sensor broken?), NNE3.4m/s. Mikaeri 764m: -8°, light wind, 3cm new snow, limited visibility. Annupuri 1100m: -10.8°, N3.9m/s. Village 1000: -9.4°, N1.5m/s. Hanazono 1000m: -9.4°, N8.4m/s(max 18m/s @ 2am). Hanazono 3 : -7.9°, NNE4.1m/s. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:E8m/s. Kamui Cape ENE3m/s, 1028hPa, wave 1.5m. Light winds below 1500m elev, the sea and mountains are calm with no significant snow drift development. From this morning's data, observations, groomer and patrol reports, the general avalanche risk is low. Hirafu Gate No2 is expected to be open. Outside the gates is not part of the resort and is unmanaged terrain. Please prepare before going out. Almost 1000 people summited yesterday and there were not accidents reported. The resorts and local area appreciate riders common sense. Yesterday, an avalanche lesson was held for some of the older students at Niseko Kondo Elementary School. We would like to thank Deputy Chief Matsumoto, Regional Division Chief Masuda, and other Kutchan Police officials for their cooperation. Accidents at the ski resorts are increasing. Ride according to your skills. Be careful on the roads. Cars cannot stop suddenly on slippery roads and with limited grip you cannot steer and brake heavily at the same time. Have a nice day. ------------------ Individual ski area information for Friday 19th January 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 and subject to change. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 300cm (-10cm since yesterday) - Base: 130cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating apart from Ace Number 1 pair, King Number 1 pair and King Number 2 quad - The Ace Family quad, Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four), Hirafu Gondola and Holiday Number 1 pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 2cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 235cm (-5cm since yesterday) - Base: 180cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - All lifts operating - The Hanazono Symphony Gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 200cm - Base: 180cm Lifts: - All lifts operating apart from Jumbo Number 4 pair - The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 232cm - Base: 160cm Lifts: - All lifts operating apart from Country Road - The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm Niseko Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Friday 19th January 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 603cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 51 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 62cm (8th January) November 2023 snowfall 120cm reported on 11 days December 2023 snowfall 247cm reported on 24 days January 2024 snowfall 236cm 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 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 Naeba region of Niigata New snowfall at base 32cm Snowfall at base this season 275cm Posted on Wednesday 17th January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Naeba Now report can be found here . Morning from Naeba. After a few days of snow, we're back to a beautiful clear and sunny day. 32cm measured since yesterday morning. In places it is more than that due to all the wind we had yesterday. Today is much calmer and a fantastic day to be out on the ski slopes. It is pleasantly mild too after a cold early morning. Two lifts are scheduled to be operating for night skiing tonight. See below. ------------------------- Official snow depth: Summit: 120cm Base: 80cm Scheduled lift operations: Prince Number 2 Gondola Takenokodaira romance pair lift Number 4 romance pair lift (open until 8:15pm) Number 3 high speed lift Number 4 high speed lift Number 5 high speed lift (open until 8:30pm) Hiuchi pair lift Dragondola Courses planned to be open: 19 of 24 courses are open The summit lift not yet available Naeba Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Wednesday 17th January 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 275cm Number of days snowfall observed 13 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 50cm (23rd December) * total over the days before 23rd December 2023 snowfall 58cm observed on 3 days January 2024 snowfall 217cm observed on 10 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 Naeba. 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 7cm Snowfall at base this season 661cm Posted on Wednesday 17th January 2024 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Morning from Geto. Strong winds and snow yesterday but it eased off overnight and we have a cloudy start. We might get to enjoy some nice bright weather, blue sky and sun at times today. The ski area is now reporting a cumulative snowfall total of 1022cm for the season. Here's to the next 10m! Lifts operating (planned): All scheduled lifts operating. The Number 2 gondola is closed today. Runs open (planned): All the main runs should be open. Scheduled to open tree runs: Heart, Garden, Rabbit. Subject to change due to conditions. Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): 265cm (top) 200cm (base) Geto Kogen Now 2023-2024 season Data as of Wednesday 17th January 2024 Total snowfall at base so far 661cm Number of days snowfall observed 34 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 73cm (on 30th November) November 2023 snowfall 138cm observed on 5 days December 2023 snowfall 243cm observed on 16 days January 2024 snowfall 280cm observed on 13 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