Independent snow and weather reporting from the Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 395cm Posted on Thursday 5th March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . There are strong winds around the village and light snow is traveling in a sideways direction. There is 3cm of new snow on the ground. Visibility looks very poor due to valley fog and the wind whipping up snow. Furano Ropeway and Kitanomine Gondola are closed. Other lifts are scheduled to operate but will be subject to the wind conditions. Overall it does not look like a good day. Operating lifts: Kitanomine Gondola CLOSED Kitanomine Romance Chair Kitanomine quad chair Kitanomine Snow Escalator Link lift Furano Ropeway CLOSED Furano Downhill chair 1 Furano Downhill chair 2 Furano Downhill chair 3 Prince Romance chair Furano Snow Escalator Kitanomine Zone: Open Furano Zone: Open Furano Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Thursday 5th March 2020 Total snowfall at base 395cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 54 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (19th November) November 2019 snowfall 84cm reported on 7 days December 2019 snowfall 91cm reported on 15 days January 2020 snowfall 114cm reported on 16 days February 2020 snowfall 98cm reported on 13 days March 2020 snowfall 8cm reported on 3 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 Geto Kogen region of Iwate New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 769cm Posted on Wednesday 4th March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . The resort is reporting 5cm of snow this morning. There is a lot of cloud around but it is quite bright in places. Forecasts are looking encouraging for snowfall still, though perhaps some strong winds through tomorrow so look out for that. I'd personally be looking to Friday for my fix of fresh snow... let's see how it plays out. Official snow depths: * Top: 305cm * Base: 150cm Planned operating lift information - subject to change: * Number 1 Gondola * Number 2 Gondola (operates on weekends and holidays only) * Number 1 pair lift * Number 2 pair lift * Quad lift Courses & Tree Runs: * All of the main official courses are available * All tree runs currently closed Nighta skiing operations * Finished for the season Geto Kogen Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Wednesday 4th March 2020 Total snowfall at base so far 769cm Number of days snowfall observed 59 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 80cm (on 6th February) November 2019 snowfall 88cm observed on 4 days December 2019 snowfall 207cm observed on 16 days January 2020 snowfall 177cm observed on 19 days February 2020 snowfall 289cm observed on 18 days March 2020 snowfall 8cm observed 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 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 669cm Posted on Tuesday 3rd March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here 6cm of fresh snowfall to report to you this morning. Yey! It is relatively mild, so the snow doesn't look like top season fluffy light powder, but we'll take it. There was lots of fog yesterday, this morning there is less but generally very cloudy and grey and while visibility is improved it's all a bit one-tone. And Annupuri are reporting fog this morning. Here's lots more words... ----- What we do... What they do * Todays version ;) Just yesterday, more than 15 people sent emails to SnowJapan asking specific – and sometimes very detailed - questions about the status of various businesses in Niseko. Are specific hotels and restaurants open as normal? Are opening times changed? Are ski lessons being held? Have transportation timetables changed? That kind of thing. As I have tried to explain before, this website is not directly involved in such businesses, and we are not a tourism advice bureau. Everyone involved in keeping this website running smoothly is very busy doing ‘what we do’. If you have questions regarding a hotel or a restaurant, I suggest directing those questions directly to that hotel or restaurant. Perhaps you could also direct questions to the people/company you have booked your holiday/accommodation with... or the tourism association. These people will surely be able to answer such questions. After all, that is part of ‘what they do’. While I unfortunately cannot be of specific help, I do wish you all good luck. And with regards to the ski resorts; I report on this every day - they are open as planned each morning. ------ The 2019-2020 season so far: through until the end of February 2020 The days and weeks and months whizz by, and here we are in March already. So once again it is time for me to take a look back on February and the season so far. The usual up-front notes: I take my measurements from close to the base of the Niseko Grand Hirafu area of our mountain. There is usually more snow at higher elevations; many locals often say there’s often ‘about 1.5 times the amount’ that there is at base. And often that seems reasonable. It is impossible for me to take measurements from the top of the mountain every morning for all sorts of practical reasons. The observed snowfall numbers on these Niseko Now reports over the years can all be compared like-for-like, because they are my observations and are coming from the same place each season. And it goes without saying that there's much more to the story than just bare numbers; they may be interesting, but they are not the complete picture. For a more complete idea of the season, please read the reports for each day! This is how much snowfall I have measured during the month of February over the last eight winter seasons: February 2020: 143cm February 2019: 198cm February 2018: 299cm February 2017: 160cm February 2016: 266cm February 2015: 196cm February 2014: 178cm February 2013: 316cm The month got off to a decent start with snow on nine consecutive days from the 2nd. Not massive numbers, but some consistency. There was then a period of five reports when I had no fresh to report before another consistent period of snowfall between 17th and 25th February. The month ended with a three-day spell of no fresh snowfall, and then a bit on the ‘bonus’ 29th! I was able to report snowfall here at base on 19 of the 29 days in the month. The most in one day was 19cm. I definitely remember being up there and seeing 40+cm on one day though. So, I observed a total of 143cm of snowfall over the month of reports. That unfortunately was the least number for a February since I started these reports in 2013. Here are my ‘season to date’ numbers, from the beginning of this season to the end of February 2020: 2019/2020 season up to end of February 2020: 659cm 2018/2019 season up to end of February 2019: 900cm 2017/2018 season up to end of February 2018: 1198cm 2016/2017 season up to end of February 2017: 605cm 2015/2016 season up to end of February 2016: 877cm 2014/2015 season up to end of February 2015: 1002cm 2013/2014 season up to end of February 2014: 1037cm 2012/2013 season up to end of February 2013: 1295cm The total for the season is better than – but comparable with - with the 2016-2017 season. Continuing from the comments last month, it really has been an odd season in Japan. Considering some of the very low snowfall numbers from many ski resorts to our south – and an agonisingly bad season for parts of western Japan – we have done relatively well, and we should be thankful for that. And while it is not classic by any means, we have had days of excellent conditions and many visitors I have met have enjoyed themselves. Then the coronavirus story appeared and over the last month or so has become louder and louder. Unfortunately, it has started to have a real effect on tourism and everyone involved. I don’t want to get into the gloom of all that, rather say that all we can do is hope that yhr situation clears quickly without there being too much further damage. And of course, the current season is not over yet of course. Here’s how much snow I have observed over the month of March in previous seasons: March 2019: 45cm March 2018: 49cm March 2017: 83cm March 2016: 109cm March 2015: 139cm March 2014: 113cm March 2013: 164cm From 1st March 2019 until the end of that season: 51cm From 1st March 2018 until the end of that season: 62cm From 1st March 2017 until the end of that season: 83cm From 1st March 2016 until the end of that season: 115cm From 1st March 2015 until the end of that season: 142cm From 1st March 2014 until the end of that season: 126cm From 1st March 2013 until the end of that season: 198cm That trend over recent years isn’t very encouraging, but we should be getting more snow. How much, we'll just have to wait and see. Here is what the Japan Meteorological Agency have reported from their observation station in Kutchan town for the month of February over the last eight years: February 2020: 158cm February 2019: 141cm February 2018: 202cm February 2017: 173cm February 2016: 210cm February 2015: 167cm February 2014: 130cm February 2013: 228cm And these are the JMA numbers for the season so far up until the end of January 2020: 2019/2020 season up to end of February 2020: 609cm 2018/2019 season up to end of February 2019: 808cm 2017/2018 season up to end of February 2018: 954cm 2016/2017 season up to end of February 2017: 741cm 2015/2016 season up to end of February 2016: 698cm 2014/2015 season up to end of February 2015: 825cm 2013/2014 season up to end of February 2014: 804cm 2012/2013 season up to end of February 2013: 900cm That’s about it from me today. Stay positive, stay healthy and let’s skiing! Next monthly recap in early April. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain Base: -１°, 5cm new snow in last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: NE 33 deg 1.6m/s, -3.8°, cloudy. Annupuri 1100m: N 10deg 5.0m/s, -6.8°. Yu no Sawa 1000m: NE 46deg 5.1m/s, -6.4°. Niseko Village 900m: NNE 21deg 0.2m/s, -5.2°. Hirafu 1000m :N 5deg 5.1m/s, -6.3°. Hanazono 720m: N 345deg 2.4m/s, -4.1°. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: light winds. Kamui Cape light winds, 1021hPa, wave 0.8m. Winds are calm and there has been a small amount of new snow. From data and observation there is no obvious avalanche risk. All gates are expected to be open. The poor visibility above 600m continues due to fog. Take care going fast, hitting trees. The snow doesn't seem sun affected, but there is only a little new snow. The weather is calm this morning but watch for a sudden change. Have a good day. ----- Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 295cm - Base: 120cm All lifts are normally operating EXCEPT: - Ace Number 1 pair lift (normally rested) - King Number 2 quad lift (normally rested) Lifts scheduled for late operations: - Ace Family quad until 8:30pm - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad until 8:20pm - Hirafu Gondola until 8:10pm - Holiday Number 1 pair until 8:30pm ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 210cm - Base: 130cm All lifts are normally operating ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 180cm - Base: 110cm All lifts are normally operating Lift scheduled for late operations: - Jumbo Number 1 quad until 8:30pm ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 190cm - Base: 110cm All lifts normally operating EXCEPT: - Country Road Chair (normally rested) Lifts scheduled for late operations: - Annupuri Village Gondola until 8:00pm - Village Express until 8:00pm - Banzai Chair until 8:00pm Niseko Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Tuesday 3rd March 2020 Total snowfall at base so far 669cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 72 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 33cm (21st January) November 2019 snowfall 85cm reported on 10 days December 2019 snowfall 207cm reported on 21 days January 2020 snowfall 224cm reported on 20 days February 2020 snowfall 143cm reported on 19 days March 2020 snowfall 10cm 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 Geto Kogen region of Iwate New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 766cm Posted on Tuesday 3rd March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Morning from Geto. Some fresh snowfall this morning. It started falling in the evening yesterday with a few cm last night and 5-7cm this morning. It is snowing lightly now. A similar kind of picture is forecast for tomorrow too. Geto Kogen Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Tuesday 3rd March 2020 Total snowfall at base so far 766cm Number of days snowfall observed 58 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 80cm (on 6th February) November 2019 snowfall 88cm observed on 4 days December 2019 snowfall 207cm observed on 16 days January 2020 snowfall 177cm observed on 19 days February 2020 snowfall 289cm observed on 18 days March 2020 snowfall 5cm 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 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 392cm Posted on Tuesday 3rd March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . It is snowing with a light breeze from the south. There is a small amount of accumulation of new snow on the ground in the village area. The day is cloudy with cloud sitting on the upper half of the mountain and the lower half clear at the moment. The light snow is forecast to continue until early afternoon and the high will be around -1c. Furano Ropeway operation has been suspended as a measure to prevent the spread of Corona Virus. Furano Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Tuesday 3rd March 2020 Total snowfall at base 392cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 53 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (19th November) November 2019 snowfall 84cm reported on 7 days December 2019 snowfall 91cm reported on 15 days January 2020 snowfall 114cm reported on 16 days February 2020 snowfall 98cm reported on 13 days March 2020 snowfall 5cm 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 Myoko region of Niigata New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 759cm Posted on Tuesday 3rd March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Myoko Now report can be found here . It's snowing! Kind of a surprise to wake up and see some wet white stuff. Not a lot; not really beautiful snow (it's turning to slush almost instantly) but it is snow and every cm is needed. I see most resorts are showing a slow decline in snowpack (apart from one place that miraculously still has way more than three meters on the ground. Ha). The Yama no Kami at Akakan on March 9, which was opened to the public last year (and was a lot of fun; a little ceremony out at the mini-shrine in the woods just about the Akakura Kanko) is, unfortunately, a victim of the corona virus. Just a handful of locals will risk infection to ask the kami for safety on the hill, and maybe more snow (don't know if the yama no kami handles weather, too). Probably smart, but I'll miss the big luncheon event inside the Kanko Hotel... Akakura Kanko: 190cm, -2°C Akakura Onsen: 245cm, -1°C Ikenotaira Onsen: 110cm, 0° Myoko Suginohara: 100cm, -3° Seki Onsen: 350cm, -3° Myoko Ski Park: 110cm, 6° Kyukamura RunRun: 180cm, 3° Tangram Ski Circus: 90cm, 1° Madarao Kogen: 120cm, no temperature reported Lotte Arai Resort 309cm, 3.6° Kurohime Kogen Snow Park 20cm, 1° Myoko Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Tuesday 3rd March 2020 Total snowfall at base so far 759cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 40 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 105cm (6th February) November 2019 snowfall 11cm reported on 2 days December 2019 snowfall 59cm reported on 6 days January 2020 snowfall 248cm reported on 16 days February 2020 snowfall 439cm reported on 15 days March 2020 snowfall 2cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 663cm Posted on Sunday 1st March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is noticeably milder this morning, though still under zero early morning. And there is a bit of fresh snow on the ground too. I am measuring 4cm. Lots of cloud around this morning and light snow has been falling. As I look out the window now, it's very light and looks like it might stop soon. There looks to be regular (light?) snow on the forecast over the coming week, with heavier snowfall potential forecast for around Thursday. As expected, things are quieter than normally expected. ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain Base: -2°, 2cm new snow in last 12hrs, cloudy. Moiwa 800m: SE 129deg 1.5m/s, -5.0°. Annupuri 1100m: SE 125deg 3.3m/s, -7.5°. Yu no Sawa 1000m: SSW 199deg 1.6m/s, -7.0°. Niseko Village 900m: SSE 151deg 3.1m/s, -6.2°. Hirafu 1000m :S 180deg 5.8m/s, -7.2°. Hanazono 720m: SSW 201deg 2.6m/s, -4.3°. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: S 3m/s. Kamui Cape E 5m/s, 1015hPa, wave 0.7m. We are currently under a low pressure system which has been bringing warm southerly air since yesterday. There has been some snowdrift development on leeward slopes above 600m, about 20cm and heavy. From observation and data the general avalanche risk is low, however there is the possibility of SW facing snow drifts slopes easily collapsing due to effects from solar radiation, take care. All gates are expected to be open when prepared. Watch out for new cracks opening with the rising temperatures. Never enter strictly off limits areas Haru no Taki or Yu no sawa. Please respect and understand the Niseko Rules. Have a good day. ----- Ski resort operation information: Sunday 1st March 2020 Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 295cm - Base: 125cm All lifts are normally operating EXCEPT: - Ace Number 1 pair lift (normally rested) - King Number 2 quad lift (normally rested) Lifts scheduled for late operations: - Ace Family quad until 8:30pm - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad until 8:20pm - Hirafu Gondola until 8:10pm - Holiday Number 1 pair until 8:30pm ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 210cm - Base: 125cm All lifts are normally operating ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 180cm - Base: 110cm All lifts are normally operating Lift scheduled for late operations: - Jumbo Number 1 quad until 8:30pm ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 190cm - Base: 110cm All lifts normally operating EXCEPT: - Country Road Chair (normally rested) Lifts scheduled for late operations: - Annupuri Village Gondola until 8:00pm - Village Express until 8:00pm - Banzai Chair until 8:00pm Niseko Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Sunday 1st March 2020 Total snowfall at base so far 663cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 71 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 33cm (21st January) November 2019 snowfall 85cm reported on 10 days December 2019 snowfall 207cm reported on 21 days January 2020 snowfall 224cm reported on 20 days February 2020 snowfall 143cm reported on 19 days March 2020 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 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 390cm Posted on Sunday 1st March 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . The resort will not operate Furano Ropeway today as a precautionary matter to prevent the possible spread of viruses. It is snowing with a moderate wind around the base area. There is not a lot of accumulation on the ground yet but I have measured 3cm this morning. Looking up at the resort visibility looks limited with the combination of the wind and snow. The temperature is currently -7c and the high of -3c will be mid afternoon. The snow is forecast to continue through the day. Operating lifts: Kitanomine Gondola Kitanomine Romance Chair Kitanomine quad chair Kitanomine Snow Escalator Link lift Furano Ropeway CLOSED Furano Downhill chair 1 Furano Downhill chair 2 Furano Downhill chair 3 Prince Romance chair Furano Snow Escalator Kitanomine Zone: Open Furano Zone: Open Furano Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Sunday 1st March 2020 Total snowfall at base 390cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 52 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (19th November) November 2019 snowfall 84cm reported on 7 days December 2019 snowfall 91cm reported on 15 days January 2020 snowfall 114cm reported on 16 days February 2020 snowfall 98cm reported on 13 days March 2020 snowfall 3cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 659cm Posted on Saturday 29th February 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Cold conditions continue this morning with 3cm more fresh snowfall to report. While the day started off with those lovely blue skies, it did get to snow during a fair bit of the daytime yesterday. This morning we once again have blue skies, but there's more of a kind of hazy thin cloud look going on. Still, it is a fine morning indeed. It's March tomorrow. Yikes! (Recap coming on Monday or Tuesday). ----- Someone sent in mail asking for advice regarding the coronavirus situation. I feel totally unqualified to make any kind of statement on that kind of thing on this platform. For what it's worth: while it is obviously a worrying topic in general, I am going about my normal life. I am making sure that I am washing my hands and am generally being aware/careful. That is what I would recommend to my friends - and what they also seem to be doing too. As far as I can tell, this morning none of the ski resorts here in Niseko have posted anything about the situation on their websites ---- so from their point of view it is 'business as usual'. Lifts are opening as planned. I think I'm going to catch a few hours myself. I would expect things to be quiet today though so people heading out should be able to enjoy that rather novel situation! ----- Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base: -7℃, 2cm snowfall in 12h, sunny. Moiwa800m: ENE 58°2.8m/s, -9.4℃. Annupuri 1100m: W 259°1.4m/s, -13.1℃. Yu no sawa: NW 310°1.2m/s, -12.8℃. Village900m: N 338°1.1m/s, -11.3℃. Hirafu1000m: NW 329°3m/s, -12.7℃. Hanazono720m: W 282°1.5m/s, -9.8℃. Sea of Japan Benkei cape: S3m/s, Kamui cape: SE2m/s, 1022hPa, 0.6m waves. A northerly wind persisted from yesterday and momentarily picked up during the night. 20+cm snowdrift patches can be found in leeward slopes above 600m. According to reports and observations, there seems to be no notable avalanche hazard today. All gates will open as they’re ready. A thin blanket of fresh snow can be found throughout the mountain, but the conditions can drastically change depending on elevation and aspect of the slope. Beware of over-speeding and hitting trees. A low-pressure system is approaching from the west; beware of sudden weather change. Always keep in mind that the area outside the gate is not within the resort management anymore. Better make conservative decisions. Good groomers conditions. Have a nice day. ----- Niseko Grand Hirafu Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 295cm - Base: 125cm All lifts are normally operating EXCEPT: - Ace Number 1 pair lift (normally rested) - King Number 2 quad lift (normally rested) All courses normally open Lifts scheduled for late operations: - Ace Family quad until 8:30pm - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad until 8:20pm - Hirafu Gondola until 8:10pm - Holiday Number 1 pair until 8:30pm ----- Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 212cm - Base: 125cm All lifts are normally operating ----- Niseko Annupuri Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 180cm - Base: 110cm All lifts are normally operating Lift scheduled for late operations: - Jumbo Number 1 quad until 8:30pm ----- Niseko Village Official snow depth (reported by resort): - Peak: 190cm - Base: 110cm All lifts normally operating EXCEPT: - Country Road Chair (normally rested) Lifts scheduled for late operations: - Annupuri Village Gondola until 8:00pm - Village Express until 8:00pm - Banzai Chair until 8:00pm Niseko Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Saturday 29th February 2020 Total snowfall at base so far 659cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 70 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 33cm (21st January) November 2019 snowfall 85cm reported on 10 days December 2019 snowfall 207cm reported on 21 days January 2020 snowfall 224cm reported on 20 days February 2020 snowfall 143cm 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 4cm Snowfall at base this season 761cm Posted on Saturday 29th February 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Just a few cm of snow on the ground this morning (from yesterday daytime - clearer overnight), with the resort reporting 5cm. We have just cloudy skies at the start of the day though there may be a chance of some snow today and tomorrow at times. Wouldn't expect anything significant though. Special (additional) night time operations at the resort tonight --- the last of the season. Rasuto-chansu! Official snow depths: * Top: 290cm * Base: 145cm Planned operating lift information - subject to change: * Number 1 Gondola * Number 2 Gondola (operates on weekends and holidays only) * Number 1 pair lift * Number 2 pair lift * Quad lift Courses & Tree Runs: * All of the main official courses are available * All tree runs apart from Extreme plan to be open * Check with resort for latest on tree run courses Nighta skiing operations * One last special nighta scheduled for tonight Geto Kogen Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Saturday 29th February 2020 Total snowfall at base so far 761cm Number of days snowfall observed 57 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 80cm (on 6th February) November 2019 snowfall 88cm observed on 4 days December 2019 snowfall 207cm observed on 16 days January 2020 snowfall 177cm observed on 19 days February 2020 snowfall 289cm observed on 18 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 387cm Posted on Saturday 29th February 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . It is a nice clear morning with the sun beaming down on the village and a few clouds above. At-17c it is a chilly start to the day but later on around midday we will see a high of -3c. Conditions should stay clear and at least partially sunny through the day. Although the base on the trails is firm there was a good fall of snow yesterday afternoon which was 6cm in the village and about 10cm on the upper mountain. Operating lifts: Kitanomine Gondola Kitanomine Romance Chair Kitanomine quad chair Kitanomine Snow Escalator Link lift Furano Ropeway Furano Downhill chair 1 Furano Downhill chair 2 Furano Downhill chair 3 Prince Romance chair Furano Snow Escalator Kitanomine Zone: Open Furano Zone: Open Furano Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Saturday 29th February 2020 Total snowfall at base 387cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 51 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (19th November) November 2019 snowfall 84cm reported on 7 days December 2019 snowfall 91cm reported on 15 days January 2020 snowfall 114cm reported on 16 days February 2020 snowfall 98cm 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 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 Zao region of Yamagata New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 270cm Posted on Friday 28th February 2020 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . Good morning from Zao. Some snow from yesterday but we are starting the day today with lots of blue sky, sunshine and some cloud. It's a fine morning and I am happy that it is remaining cold. It should remain in the low negative numbers here at base for the day. Zao is.... quiet. If you want to experience what will probably be a quiet weekend, now's your chance! It seems like tomorrow is forecast generally cloudy with more of a chance of sun on Sunday; perhaps slightly milder temperatures too. Official snow depths (as reported by resort): - Summit area: 100cm - Paradise area: 105cm - Chuo area: 120cm - Utopia area: 115cm - Uwanodai area: 55cm - Oomori area: 55cm All lifts are now normally operating apart from the following: - Zao Paradise Number 3 pair - Diamond Number 1 pair - Astraea Number 3 pair - Ryuzan pair - Karamatsu pair - Yokokura Number 2 pair - All courses are now mostly open - Yokokura and Omori part open Zao Now 2019-2020 season Data as of Friday 28th February 2020 Total snowfall at base 270cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 44 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 30cm (on 7th February) November 2019 snowfall 8cm observed on 3 days December 2019 snowfall 51cm observed on 10 days January 2020 snowfall 88cm observed on 16 days February 2020 snowfall 123cm observed on 15 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