Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 22cm Snowfall at base this season 383cm Posted on Monday 2nd January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is a cold, snowy and windy morning. I have just measured 22cm of fresh snow, and it looks like Hirafu and Hanazono (and town areas) has been getting more than the southern areas of the mountain this time round. More is due to day and over the next several days. So yes, it is very cold and the wind is probably going to be an issue today. Niseko Annupuri is reporting 'extremely strong winds blowing in the mid to upper areas'. Indeed at the start of the day, their gondola and upper lifts are waiting it out. The Hanazono Gondola is shown as being on hold but I can see it moving on the webcam, so hopefully it will open soon. Hirafu Gondola has opened as planned and the Niseko Gondola at Village is also moving, as are base lifts. It is probably one of those days when extra care is required if you are venturing out, and keeping a check on the excitement levels is wise. Take care out there. Anyway, here's lots more words... ------------------------ A look back at the season so far: until end of December 2022 First of all, snowfall numbers! We didn’t get much snowfall in November 2022, just 17cm by my last report of the month. The snow properly started around that last day of November, with 14cm on 1st December and then snow on all but four days during December. And it has been pretty consistent too. Not massive amounts (the most snowfall recorded in one report so far was 21cm on 17th December), but on many days I observed 10-20cm at base. All of this data can of course be found on the detailed Season archive page here: 2022-2023 season (this season) 2021-2022 season (last season) How does that compare with previous seasons? This is how much snowfall I have measured during the month of December over the last ten seasons: December 2022: 336cm December 2021: 307cm December 2020: 348cm December 2019: 207cm December 2018: 333cm December 2017: 406cm December 2016: 181cm December 2015: 244cm December 2014: 519cm December 2013: 275cm December 2012: 418cm Here’s how much snow I have observed up until the end of December in each of the seasons: 2022/2023 season up to end of December 2022: 353cm 2021/2022 season up to end of December 2021: 392cm 2020/2021 season up to end of December 2020: 410cm 2019/2020 season up to end of December 2019: 292cm 2018/2019 season up to end of December 2018: 417cm 2017/2018 season up to end of December 2017: 594cm 2016/2017 season up to end of December 2016: 293cm 2015/2016 season up to end of December 2015: 308cm 2014/2015 season up to end of December 2014: 549cm 2013/2014 season up to end of December 2013: 398cm 2012/2013 season up to end of December 2012: 536cm So, more snowfall in December 2022 than in December 2021, but due to the low snowfall numbers in November, the season-so-far total number this year is less than last year. (As of the end of December). One noticeable difference is that while we missed out on the snow in late November, the snowfall during December this year was regular and consistent. That is in contrast to the fact that most of the snow in December 2021 came in the second half of the month. I’m very pleased with the first month of the season and have enjoyed some typical Niseko conditions. It has been great to see some friends who were able to visit for the first time in a while, too! And it is exciting to think that it’s still pretty early season. Here is how much of the total snowfall for the whole season we have already had fallen on us by the end of December in previous seasons: By the end of December 2021, as a % of the season total: about 34% By the end of December 2020, as a % of the season total: about 34% By the end of December 2019, as a % of the season total: about 40% By the end of December 2018, as a % of the season total: about 44% By the end of December 2017, as a % of the season total: about 47% By the end of December 2016, as a % of the season total: about 43% By the end of December 2015, as a % of the season total: about 31% By the end of December 2014, as a % of the season total: about 48% By the end of December 2013, as a % of the season total: about 34% By the end of December 2012, as a % of the season total: about 36% Looking forward to what we might expect in January, here’s how much snowfall I have recorded during previous seasons. (The numbers in brackets show the total observed snowfall up until the end of January in each of those respective seasons). January 2022: 325cm (717cm) January 2021: 387cm (797cm) January 2020: 224cm (516cm) January 2019: 285cm (702cm) January 2018: 305cm (899cm) January 2017: 152cm (445cm) January 2016: 303cm (611cm) January 2015: 257cm (806cm) January 2014: 461cm (859cm) January 2013: 443cm (979cm) Some thoughts: It was October 2022 when the Japanese government announced that restrictions on inbound tourism would be largely lifted. It was great news to hear. At long last! After a few years of relative peace, quiet, somewhat complicated feelings, uneasiness - and lack of revenues for many businesses - things could return to normal. The timing of the favourable exchange rates was great too! Excellent. (Let's not mention the backdrop of rising prices everywhere for the moment.) Everyone had been guessing about a possible lifting of travel restrictions, but no one was quite sure if and when it would happen. As a result, the October announcement was a bit late for a few things. Firstly, it was a bit late for some people to plan a Japan visit during the 2022-2023 season. It was also a bit late for many businesses, who didn't have much time to prepare. Even with the news of the border opening, business owners didn't know how many people to expect to turn up. There was clearly a pent-up demand, but how many would be able to get here? This situation presented some unique staffing issues: how many staff should be hired, and in such a short time? The question of how many people will turn up has been partly answered: Quite a lot! Which is fabulous news for the local economy. However, in the background, some services are currently struggling with staffing issues, and it can sometimes be apparent. For example, I was in a restaurant just before New Year. It was extremely busy, and the staff were running around looking somewhat flustered. (Though I must add that, in true Japanese style, they were still polite and friendly. Don't you just love that?) From what I hear and see, finding enough staff is a headache at the moment. I am guessing some of you (lots of you, perhaps) will be reading that and thinking, 'that's totally mad; where do I sign up?!' And it's an excellent point! All of this has meant that some workers enjoy pretty cool perks. I have heard rumours of some eye-popping 'finders fees' offered for certain skilled work positions. Great work if you can get it. Staffing and labour shortage issues are not a problem unique to Niseko but a Japan-wide phenomenon. Japan is a declining and ageing population, and (from what I hear) visa-related immigration is on the strict side. I am not privy to visitor numbers. Still, I am guessing that while there are obviously a lot more foreigners around this year, the numbers might not be as high as they perhaps sometimes look or feel. With some businesses having to scale back or cut certain services (due to the staffing issues), the remaining places will naturally be busier. I must add that the times I have been out there, the ski slopes themselves haven't been overly busy. I have certainly seen it busier in my years here. Instead, it has felt more like an 'associated services' thing. Other people may well have different impressions, and I'd be keen to hear them. Niseko has a reputation to live up to. First, of course, there are the famous snow conditions. But in modern-day Niseko, there's also the luxury aspect. People come here with high expectations and often pay a handsome price for the privilege. So it needs to deliver. Hopefully, by the time next season comes around (or even better, sooner than that), staffing will not be a major issue. Unless the world goes off on another adventure of unpredictable madness, everyone involved should have more time to be prepared. Please note that in writing the above, I am just highlighting a current issue and my take on it. I would like to think that my Niseko-loving credentials are intact and undisputed. :) And to people about to visit. Don't worry; there has not been a catastrophic decline in services! I'm sure you will have an excellent time. To avoid the busiest times, for example, I recommend having an early or late lunch. Things like that. I also wish the best to the businesses eager to serve their excited customers. --------------- Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base -11C, intermittent snowstorm, 30cm snowfall, windslabs forming and bad visibility. Moiwa800m: -14.1C, W9.6m/s, cornices and snowdrifts are very unstable. Annupuri1100m: -17.1C, WNW8.4m/s, strong storm, bad visibility and 40cm snowfall and large, up to 150cm, snowdrift development. Hanazono1000m: -16.1C, SSE2.6m/s, 30cm snowfall. Mizuno no Sawa: -15.6C, NNW4.4m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW17m/s, Kamui cape W16m/s, 1013hPa, 3.0m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is steep and it’s stormy from the coast to the mountain range. Cornices and snowdrifts are developing drastically and the avalanche risk is extreme. It is recommended to call it a day early and chill at the onsen today. Wind-affected snow is stacking up thick in the leeward tree runs. Surface slab avalanches are likely to occur in high elevation knolls and slopes with heavy snowdrift accumulation; stay away from the gully bottoms. The Niseko Rules are rules for riding the area outside the ski resorts. All resort users are expected to abide by the rules no matter their experience or knowledge level. One line across the rope will lead others to follow it. An accident that occurred at gate 8 area in the past was caused by a young snowboarder following an arrogant, over-confident skier’s track. That was Japan’s first snowboarder’s fatal avalanche accident. Keep in mind that leeward slopes under high-winds are extremely likely to avalanche. Today is not a safe day to venture out to risky slopes. Beware of frostbites and have a nice day. --------------- Ski area information for Monday 2nd January 2023 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Lift information is the planned operations for the day, weather permitting. Official snow depth numbers in brackets show the change since previous report. *** SOME LIFT OPERATIONS AFFECTED BY WIND THIS MORNING *** Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 30cm - Base: 30cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 270cm (+20cm since yesterday) - Base: 110cm (+10cm since yesterday) Lifts: - Ace Family quad [* open until for 7:00pm for night skiing] - Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four) [* open until for 7:00pm for night skiing] - Ace Number 3 pair - Hirafu Gondola - Holiday Number 1 pair - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ------- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 23cm - Base: 28cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 195cm (+15cm since yesterday) - Base: 165cm (+15cm since yesterday) Lifts: - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] ------- Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 140cm (+10cm since yesterday) - Base: 120cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: - Annupuri Gondola ON HOLD - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open until 7:30pm for night skiing] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 3 pair ON HOLD - Jumbo Number 4 pair ON HOLD ------- Niseko Village Ski Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 125cm (+5cm since yesterday) (honto ni?!) - Base: 110cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] - Banzai Chair [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] - Wonderland Chair ------- Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: - Number 1 pair lift - Number 2 pair lift - Quad lift Niseko Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Monday 2nd January 2023 Total snowfall at base so far 383cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 34 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 22cm (2nd January) November 2022 snowfall 17cm reported on 5 days December 2022 snowfall 336cm reported on 27 days January 2023 snowfall 30cm reported on 2 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 9cm Snowfall at base this season 171cm Posted on Monday 2nd January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . A nice fresh covering. 9cm doesn't sound a lot but it does the trick. It is snowing still although light and should be like this most of the day. Sunny patches may occur during the day though. However, at the moment it is foggy. There are fairly strong winds higher up today. Zao Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Monday 2nd January 2023 Total snowfall at base 171cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 24 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 30cm (on 24th December) November 2022 snowfall 0cm December 2022 snowfall 162cm observed on 23 days January 2023 snowfall 9cm observed on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 31cm Snowfall at base this season 132cm Posted on Monday 2nd January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . Good morning, and a good one it is too (after fine weather during the day and then a wet start to the precipitation yesterday evening). I am happy to report lots of fresh snow around this morning. In fact, the ski area reports 60cm in the top area and 20-25cm around base areas. I just measured more than those official base numbers at just over 30cm. Excellent. Visibility is suitably limited this morning as it continues to snow... and there should be snow continuing over the next few days too. Taps set to 'full on', please! It's the last day of the New Year period night skiing tonight at Nagasaka, until 8pm. Ski lifts will also get back to the usual opening times from tomorrow morning. Fresh snowfall since yesterday morning (reported by the ski area): - Yamabiko: 60cm - Uenotaira: 44cm - Hikage: 25cm - Nagasaka: 25cm - Karasawa: 20cm Official snow depth numbers (reported by the ski area): - Yamabiko: 150cm - Uenotaira: 140cm - Hikage: 80cm - Nagasaka: 70cm - Karasawa: 60cm All lifts now normally operating except these lifts: - Hikage quad (due to maintenance) All courses are now open except the following: - Grand Prix - Hachiman - Kandahar (restrictions) Planned night skiing (Nagasaka quad): - Daily from 29th December 2022 through 2nd January 2023 - 8th January 2023 - Every Saturday until 25th March 2023 Nozawa Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Monday 2nd January 2023 Total snowfall at base 132cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 14 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 34cm (26th December) November 2022 snowfall 0cm December 2022 snowfall 101cm reported on 13 days January 2023 snowfall 31cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 14cm Snowfall at base this season 182cm Posted on Monday 2nd January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . There is more fresh snow this morning around the mountains, and some varying numbers too. That 50cm that Goryu is reporting looks tasty (and is something of an outlier, with other numbers more in the 20-30cm range). Still, there's a layer of fresh on them there mountains and down to base too. Light snow still falling in places, and not in others, and we can probably expect a mostly cloudy day. The Tree Riding Zones opened at Hakuba 47 yesterday. All is good. Let's have more snow. (* Always want more. The need is never-ending). --------------- Total snowfall accumulation this season so far (in upper areas) [The information below is manually checked with official sources and updated every morning.] ABLE Hakuba Goryu: 202cm Hakuba 47: 190cm Hakuba Happo-one: 187cm Hakuba Cortina: 163cm Tsugaike Mountain Resort: 195cm * There is often a delay of one day in numbers being reported --------------- ABLE Hakuba Goryu Reported snowfall: Upper: 50cm (Alps Daira) Official snow depth: Upper: 225cm Toomi: 110cm Hakuba 47 Reported snowfall: Upper: 25cm Base: 10cm Official snow depth: Top: 210cm Base: 115cm Hakuba Cortina Reported snowfall (24 hours): Summit: 30cm Official snow depth: 185cm Hakuba Happo-one Reported snowfall: Kurobishi: 10cm Usagidaira: 22cm Top of Riesen quad: 20cm (social media) Nakiyama: 2cm Official snow depth: Kurobishi: 220cm Usagidaira: 146cm Nakiyama: 75cm Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field Reported snowfall: Mountain Side: 0cm (?) Village Side: 0cm Official snow depth: Mountain Side: 100cm Village Side: 30cm Hakuba Norikura Onsen Official snow depth: 175cm Hakuba Valley Kashimayari Official snow depth: 100cm Jigatake Official snow depth: 50cm Tsugaike Mountain Resort Reported snowfall: Upper: 0cm Official snow depth: Upper: 180cm Lower: 80cm White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Official snow depth: 90cm Hakuba Now 2022-2023 season Data as Monday 2nd January 2023 Total snowfall at base so far 182cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 19 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 29cm (24th December) November 2022 snowfall 0cm December 2022 snowfall 164cm reported on 17 days January 2023 snowfall 18cm reported on 2 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Hakuba. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 22cm Snowfall at base this season 284cm Posted on Monday 2nd January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . The snow storm of yesterday has passed. Today will be mostly cloudy. At the moment there are breaks in the cloud revealing the blue sky behind. Some early morning cloud is sitting on the resort. Visibility is fair to good and should improve. Light to moderate winds are present around base, expect stronger at elevation. There is 22cm of fresh new snow since yesterday's report. Kitanomine Zone open Furano Zone open Furano Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Monday 2nd January 2023 Total snowfall at base 284cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 26 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (15th and 18th December) November 2022 snowfall 2cm reported on 1 day December 2022 snowfall 256cm reported on 23 days January 2023 snowfall 26cm reported on 2 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Furano. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 361cm Posted on Sunday 1st January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Happy New Year, everyone. I've had my traditional hatsu-toast (first toast of the year) and am ready to get going! Just over 8cm overnight and light snow has been falling (in places) early morning, though it is generally quite bright and I can see hints of blue sky too. No clear views of Mt Yotei for the new year, though, at least at the start of the day. It feels cold this morning and the snow looks good. Snowfall should be continuing at varying rates over the next several days. Annupuri are opening their Panorama and Marchen runs from this morning. So gates aside, pretty much everywhere is open now... weather permitting. At the start of the day today the Niseko Annupuri gondola and top lift is on hold due to wind, though other lifts appear to be opening as planned. I am in the middle of preparing my thoughts on the season so far, and they should be ready to post tomorrow. The site now presents the numbers that I traditionally look at, in some ways making my review redundant. Still, I enjoy thinking about the season and comparing it with previous seasons once a month. I feel it helps keep things in perspective. (By the way, I had kept the 'Large and Dynamic courses are closed' note on the list below after they had opened. My mistake, sorry about that. I am going to go back and edit so that the information is correct. I have also taken out the 'number of lifts operating' info that I had recently added - with some lifts generally not opening, that could be seen as misleading). --------------- Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base -2C, 8cm new snow, mild blizzard. Moiwa 800m: -5.8℃, WSW8.8m/s, snowdrifts developing. Annupuri 1100m: -8.4C, W7.3m/s, snowdrifts developing. Mizuno no Sawa 1000m: -6.9C, NNW3.4m/s. Hanazono 1000m: -6.9C, SSE0.8m/s, 10cm new snow. Mountain Peak: -10C, light winds, good visibility, 10cm new snow. Coastal Data Cape Benkei: NW16m/s. Cape Kamui: WSW12m/s, pressure 1013hPa, waves 2.0m, Strong winds and snow on the sea and mountains following a weak front. The pressure gradient is expected to increase this morning along with increased snowdrift development at all elevations. After 10am expect the avalanche risk to sharply increase on 40deg slopes and around knolls due to slab formation in the strong winds. Best to not go off course today even if the lifts can run. Avalanches can happen anywhere if the conditions are right. One condition where surface avalanches occur is when a snow slab forms on a slope. The main cause of this is wind, however the sun can also cause surface slab formation. The 1998 Spring Falls avalanche occurred under these conditions. Heavy snowfall can also cause avalanches. So many accidents occur during periods of heavy snow and wind, where large amounts of snow rapidly accumulate on leeward slopes. The 31/12 layer is expected to be a future weak layer, the danger varying depending on elevation. Best to stay off SE facing sidewalls above 1000m. From observations some deeper layers like the 12/23 layer are stable, but be vigilant. All gates are closed. Please follow the patrols instructions. Many people are ducking ropes, this careless behavior causes out of bounds accidents. Happy new year. --------------- Ski area information for Sunday 1st January 2023 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. Official snow depth numbers in brackets show the change since previous report. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 5cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 250cm (-5cm since yesterday) - Base: 100cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - Ace Family quad [* open until for 7:00pm for night skiing] - Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four) [* open until for 7:00pm for night skiing] - Ace Number 3 pair - Hirafu Gondola - Holiday Number 1 pair - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey ------- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 5cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 180cm (-6cm since yesterday) - Base: 150cm (-3cm since yesterday) Lifts: - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] ------- Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 10cm - Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 130cm (+10cm since yesterday) - Base: 110cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open until 7:30pm for night skiing] - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair ------- Niseko Village Ski Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 120cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 110cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] - Banzai Chair [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] - Wonderland Chair ------- Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: - Number 1 pair lift - Number 2 pair lift - Quad lift Niseko Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Sunday 1st January 2023 Total snowfall at base so far 361cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 33 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (17th December) November 2022 snowfall 17cm reported on 5 days December 2022 snowfall 336cm reported on 27 days January 2023 snowfall 8cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 168cm Posted on Sunday 1st January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Hello and Happy New Year from Hakuba! We start 2023 with just a little fresh snow being reported in upper areas by some ski areas - a few cm or so. But there's some cm of snow on the top of my car this morning that I am pretty sure wasn not there yesterday afternoon. Sorry, my mind is rather foggy this morning (can't think why...!) Whatever, let's have some heavy snow again, please. It is a fine morning with some cloud and quite a bit of blue sky. It should be snowing by the end of today though. So I should have some fresh on the ground to report to you in my next report. Outside is looking very tempting. Perhaps like some other people, though, I think I am going to have to take it easy this morning. --------------- Total snowfall accumulation this season so far (in upper areas) [The information below is manually checked with official sources and updated every morning.] ABLE Hakuba Goryu: 197cm Hakuba 47: 185cm Hakuba Happo-one: 187cm Hakuba Cortina: 162cm Tsugaike Mountain Resort: 195cm --------------- ABLE Hakuba Goryu Reported snowfall: Upper: 5cm (Alps Daira) Official snow depth: Upper: 200cm Toomi: 100cm Hakuba 47 Reported snowfall: Upper: 5cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth: Top: 195cm Base: 105cm Hakuba Cortina Reported snowfall (24 hours): Summit: 1cm Lower: 0cm Official snow depth: 165cm Hakuba Happo-one Reported snowfall: Kurobishi: 0cm Usagidaira: 0cm Top of Riesen quad: 3cm (social media) Nakiyama: 0cm Official snow depth: Kurobishi: 210cm Usagidaira: 133cm Nakiyama: 72cm Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field Reported snowfall: Mountain Side: 0cm Village Side: 0cm Official snow depth: Mountain Side: 100cm Village Side: 30cm Hakuba Norikura Onsen Official snow depth: 170cm Hakuba Valley Kashimayari Official snow depth: 80cm Jigatake Official snow depth: 50cm Tsugaike Mountain Resort Reported snowfall: Upper: 0cm Official snow depth: Upper: 159cm Lower: 59cm White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Official snow depth: 90cm Hakuba Now 2022-2023 season Data as Sunday 1st January 2023 Total snowfall at base so far 168cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 18 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 29cm (24th December) November 2022 snowfall 0cm December 2022 snowfall 164cm reported on 17 days January 2023 snowfall 4cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Hakuba. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 262cm Posted on Sunday 1st January 2023 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . It is snowing heavily at the moment with around 4cm of fresh snow on the ground. The snow is expected to ease and leave high cloud during the day. The temperature is a warm -3c and the high will nudge only a little higher at -2c. A light wind is present. With all the snow coming down visibly is limited but that will improve if the snow stops. Kitanomine Zone open Furano Zone open Furano Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Sunday 1st January 2023 Total snowfall at base 262cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 25 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (15th and 18th December) November 2022 snowfall 2cm reported on 1 day December 2022 snowfall 256cm reported on 23 days January 2023 snowfall 4cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Furano. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 11cm Snowfall at base this season 353cm Posted on Saturday 31st December 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It was snowing on and off yesterday and even quite heavily in some moments, certainly over in Hanazono, where I spent a few hours. It was busy, too. In the end, I have another 11cm to add to the report today. That takes my total observed snowfall for the season so far - at base - to 353cm. I will look at the snowfall numbers and reflect on the season in an upcoming report. There is certainly a lot to reflect on this year, and I have some thoughts I would like to share. Some of the gates aside, most of the mountain (and connections between areas) is open on this last day of the year. Niseko Annupuri still has their Panorama, Marchen and Fukayukirinkan (Deep Snow Forest) courses closed. But as a very nice present from them, they are offering free night skiing from 7:30pm until 11:00pm tonight. (I'm not hearing of other ski areas being similarly generous). We can expect various fireworks and other celebrations, of course. That's it for me this year. Wherever you are in the world, I hope you have a safe New Year's Eve. I'll see you in 2023. Looks like the first week of the new year is going to be snowy... just how like it! --------------- Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base -6℃, 5cm new snow, light winds, good visibility, calm. Moiwa 800m: -6.8℃, WSW2.6m/s, 10cm new snow, minor snowdrift development, good visibility. Annupuri 1100m: -9.4℃, WSW5.3m/s, good visibility. Mizuno no Sawa 1000m: -8.4℃, W1.8m/s. Hanazono 1000m: -9.1℃, ESE0.0m/s. Mountain Peak: -10℃, light winds, good visibility, 10cm new snow, snowdrift development. Coastal Data Cape Benkei: NW10m/s. Cape Kamui: SW12m/s, pressure 1019hPa, waves 1.1m, Isobars are spread moderately apart and there has only been minor snowfall and snowdrift development on the mountain. From observation and data the general avalanche risk is low. As the snow depth is increasing, slope preparation off the top lifts is progressing. Groomer condition is absolutely gorgeous. Only a little snow fell overnight, slopes are not reset but it's easy riding. Watch your speed and hitting a tree. Be careful. Don't duck ropes looking for fresh snow. One set of tracks can cause lots of other people to follow, increasing the chance of an accident. Gates 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are not open yet, the lack of snow makes rescue operations difficult. Gates 6 and 10 have limited openings, but there is insufficient snow to ride out the bottom. Cut out early, don't descend too deeply. Niseko respects the freedom to ride out of bounds, but is always concerned about your safety. Happy New Year's Eve. --------------- Ski area information for Saturday 31st December 2022 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. Official snow depth numbers in brackets show the change since previous report. 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: 255cm (+5cm since yesterday) - Base: 100cm (+5cm since yesterday) Lifts: - Ace Family quad [* open until for 7:00pm for night skiing] - Ace Number 2 quad (Center Four) [* open until for 7:00pm for night skiing] - Ace Number 3 pair - Hirafu Gondola - Holiday Number 1 pair - King Number 3 quad - King Number 4 - Swinging Monkey - 8 of 12 lifts operating (weather permitting) Courses: - All courses are now open except Large and Dynamic ------- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 13cm - Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 186cm (-5cm since yesterday) - Base: 153cm (+5cm since yesterday) Lifts: - Hanazono Number 1 - Hanazono Number 2 quad - Hanazono Number 3 quad - Hanazono Symphony Gondola [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] - 4 of 4 lifts operating (weather permitting) ------- Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 120cm (no change since yesterday) - Base: 100cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: - Annupuri Gondola - Dream Number 1 quad - Jumbo Number 1 quad [* open until 7:30pm for night skiing] Special late opening tonight - Jumbo Number 2 pair - Jumbo Number 3 pair - Jumbo Number 4 pair - 6 of 6 lifts operating (weather permitting) ------- Niseko Village Ski Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 0cm - Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): - Peak: 120cm (+10cm since yesterday) - Base: 110cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: - Niseko Gondola - Village Express - Community Chair [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] - Banzai Chair [* open until 7:00pm for night skiing] - Wonderland Chair - 5 of 7 lifts operating (weather permitting) ------- Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Lifts: - Number 1 pair lift - Number 2 pair lift - Quad lift - 3 of 3 lifts operating (weather permitting) Niseko Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Saturday 31st December 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 353cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 32 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (17th December) November 2022 snowfall 17cm reported on 5 days December 2022 snowfall 336cm reported on 27 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Zao region of Yamagata New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 162cm Posted on Saturday 31st December 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . It's sunny as I write with patches of cloud. It should remain like this for most of the day with wind (where it occurs higher up and not that strong today) coming down. There is a chance if very light snow later in the day. Enjoy as tomorrow will be foggy with a steady fall of snow with quite a bit forecasted for tomorrow night. Those over-celebrating tonight will therefore not need to rush tomorrow morning! Official snow depth: - Summit: 115cm - Paradise: 100cm - Chuo: 100cm - Utopia: 120cm - Uwanodai: 70cm - Yokokura: 75cm Zao Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Saturday 31st December 2022 Total snowfall at base 162cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 23 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 30cm (on 24th December) November 2022 snowfall 0cm December 2022 snowfall 162cm observed 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 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 2cm Snowfall at base this season 101cm Posted on Saturday 31st December 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . The ski area is reporting 10-11cm of fresh snow on upper areas since yesterday, with just a few cm of that coming in overnight. Just a bit of new snow down at lower levels. It's cloudy this morning with somewhat limited visibility on the top of the mountain, though some blue sky visible in some areas. So it's New Year's Eve and so special night skiing and New Years Countdown tonight. Night skiing is until 11:30pm with the countdown event and fireworks from midnight. I'm guessing that Naski will be turning up to celebrate. Look out for that always-friendly and smiley bright green vegetable! (You can see Naski on the third photo this morning; usually turns up for work there just after 8am). There's some heavy snow on the forecasts over the first few days of 2023. Sounds like a good way to start! Have fun, take care and see you in the new year. Fresh snowfall since yesterday morning (reported by the ski area): - Yamabiko: 10cm - Uenotaira: 11cm - Hikage: 1cm - Nagasaka: 1cm - Karasawa: 1cm Official snow depth numbers (reported by the ski area): - Yamabiko: 100cm - Uenotaira: 110cm - Hikage: 60cm - Nagasaka: 60cm - Karasawa: 40cm All lifts now normally operating except these lifts: - Hikage quad (due to maintenance) All courses are now open except the following: - Grand Prix - Hachiman - Kandahar (restrictions) Planned night skiing (Nagasaka quad): - Daily from 29th December 2022 through 2nd January 2023 - 8th January 2023 - Every Saturday until 25th March 2023 Nozawa Now 2022-2023 season Data as of Saturday 31st December 2022 Total snowfall at base 101cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 13 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 34cm (26th December) November 2022 snowfall 0cm December 2022 snowfall 101cm 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 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 2cm Snowfall at base this season 164cm Posted on Saturday 31st December 2022 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . It's a beautiful morning here in Hakuba. Hakubatastic, even. Just look at those mountains. Stunning. Cold too. A fine afternoon yesterday as the early morning clouds parted to some degree. We still had a fair amount of clouds around, but some blue sky too. No snowfall is being reported by ski areas overnight. And here we are on this last day of the year with mostly clear blue skies. There will be various celebrations going on tonight. I bet a few of you might even have a drink or two. Take care on the slopes and in the bars, and be ready for more fresh snow in the new year. As promised I have made some changes to the list this morning. I'm starting up the reporting of the 'total snowfall accumulation' numbers that Hakuba Valley put out. (Please take them for what they are; step back, look at the big picture rather than the minute detail. I say this because at times they don't seem to change and also it is unclear when exactly they started. And how can the total snowfall be less than the current snow depth at Happo-one?!, etc. Hmmm). As you probably know, Hakuba Sanosaka ski area has re-opened this season with two lifts operating. They are calling themselves White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka this season. That name change has been reflected on the new list. --------------- Total snowfall accumulation this season so far (in upper areas) [The information below is manually checked with official sources and updated every morning.] ABLE Hakuba Goryu: 197cm Hakuba 47: 185cm Hakuba Happo-one: 187cm Hakuba Cortina: 162cm Tsugaike Mountain Resort: 195cm --------------- ABLE Hakuba Goryu Reported snowfall: Upper: 0cm (Alps Daira) Official snow depth: Upper: 200cm Toomi: 100cm Hakuba 47 Reported snowfall: Upper: 0cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth: Top: 195cm Base: 105cm Hakuba Cortina Reported snowfall (24 hours): Summit: 0cm Lower: 0cm Official snow depth: 175cm Hakuba Happo-one Reported snowfall: Kurobishi: 0cm Usagidaira: 0cm Top of Riesen quad: 0cm (social media) Nakiyama: 0cm Official snow depth: Kurobishi: 210cm Usagidaira: 140cm Nakiyama: 75cm Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field Reported snowfall: Mountain Side: 0cm Village Side: 0cm Official snow depth: Mountain Side: 100cm Village Side: 30cm Hakuba Norikura Onsen Official snow depth: 165cm Hakuba Valley Kashimayari Official snow depth: 80cm Jigatake Official snow depth: 50cm Tsugaike Mountain Resort Reported snowfall: Upper: 0cm Official snow depth: Upper: 162cm Lower: 62cm White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Official snow depth: 90cm --------------- Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is available at these ski areas during the 2022-2023 season (subject to change) ABLE Hakuba Goryu: daily Hakuba Cortina: on Saturdays in January and February; daily from 29th December to 3rd January; 8th January Jigatake: daily until 3rd January; on Fridays and Saturdays in January and February (until 25th February); 8th January; 22nd February Hakuba Now 2022-2023 season Data as Saturday 31st December 2022 Total snowfall at base so far 164cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 17 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 29cm (24th December) November 2022 snowfall 0cm December 2022 snowfall 164cm 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