Independent snow and weather reporting from the Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 145cm Posted on Saturday 23rd December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Another beautiful day yesterday. Lots of updates have been made to the resort specific lists this morning (below), so be sure to check them out. The main headlines: - The Grat quad lift and top course at Happo-one is now open - All of Goryu-47 is now open, including the Iimori area - The Tree Riding Zone at Hakuba 47 is now open This morning there's 5cm of fresh snow to report though curiously the resorts aren't reporting much - Cortina are mentioning just 2cm, Goryu are mentioning 0cm (!) and 47 report 10cm. Perhaps due to the snow starting early morning. But anyway a bit of a layer of fresh snow out there. Snow cover is not a problem but we could do with some more... So what about heavy snowfall? This coming week shows lots of exciting potential with heavy snowfall due to be with us from tomorrow night or Monday morning - and it's due to continue for at least a few days. We should be a getting a lot of snow out of this, so we can look forward to renewed excellent conditions. Before that, sun is on the forecast for tomorrow (and perhaps later today) --- the calm before the storm, hopefully. Enjoy your day. Hakuba Happo-one Operating lifts: - Gondola Adam - Alpen quad lift - Hakuba Riesen quad lift - Nakiyama Number 3 triple lift - Panorama pair lift - Kokusai Number 1 pair lift - Kokusai Number 3 pair lift - Kurobishi Number 2 quad lift - Skyline Number 2 pair lift - Sakka Kita-one quad lift - Sakka Number 2 pair lift Courses open: - Majority of course areas are now at least part open - Areas still closed: Kurobishi off-piste, Nakiyama Wall, Nakiyama North, Central, Shirakaba North Official snow depth: - Kurobishi: 175cm - Usagidaira: 120cm - Lower: 55cm Hakuba Goryu Operating lifts: - Goryu Telecabin (gondola) - Alps Number 1 pair lift - Alps Number 3 pair lift - Toomi Sky four lift - Toomi Number 1 pair lift - Toomi Number 2 pair lift - Milky four lift - Number 1 high speed pair lift - Number 6 pair lift - Cosmo four lift Courses open: - All courses apart from Cosmo River, Straight Whisky, Snow Diving and Adventure are open Official snow depth: - Top: 205cm - Toomi: 70cm - Iimori: 40cm Hakuba 47 Operating lifts: - Line 8 Gondola - Line AB pair lift - Line C quad lift - Line E high speed pair lift Courses open: - All main courses are open - The Tree Riding Zone is now open (Gate 3 closed) Official snow depth: - Top: 185cm - Base: 60cm Tsugaike Kogen Operating lifts: - Most lifts now operating Courses open: - All courses areas apart from Champion and Kane-no-naru-oka 2 are now open Official snow depth: - Tsuga-no-mori: 170cm - Han-no-ki: 170cm - Maruyama: 50cm - Shirakaba: 60cm - Oya-no-hara: 45cm - Kane-no-naru-oka: 40cm Hakuba Cortina Operating lifts: - Number 1 pair lift - Number 2 quad lift - Number 3 lift - Number 4 pair lift - Number 6 lift Courses open: - Ikenota - Hieda Forest - Mt Hieda 1 - Mt Hieda 2 - Mt Hieda 3 - Itadaira - Ipponmatsu - Rabbit - Snake (confirming) Official snow depth: - Top: 168cm - Base: 90cm Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field Operating lifts: - Gondola - View 2 - 4 East - 5 South - Paradise triple - Line Courses open: - View C - View D - East - South - Gezan - Sunny Valley (part) - Paradise (part) - by1 (part) - by2 (part) Official snow depth: - Top: 100cm - Base: 30cm Hakuba Norikura Onsen Operating lifts: - Alps Number 4 pair lift - Alps Number 5 high speed pair lift Official snow depth: - 80cm Hakuba Valley Kashimayari Operating lifts: - Number 1 quad lift - Number 2 pair lift - Number 3 quad lift - Number 5 pair lift - Number 6 quad lift - Number 7 pair lift Official snow depth: - 60cm Hakuba Sanosaka Operating lifts: - Number 3 quad lift Official snow depth: - 70cm Hakuba Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Saturday 23rd December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 145cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 16 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 23cm (21st November) November 2017 snowfall 47cm reported on 5 days December 2017 snowfall 98cm reported on 11 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Hakuba. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 11cm Snowfall at base this season 475cm Posted on Friday 22nd December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning I measured 11cm of fresh snowfall to add to the report as the snow keeps on piling up. Well, actually, not at the moment as it has eased off leaving us with generally cloudy skies at the moment. It is going to be slightly less cold today as well and over the next few days temperatures may well venture into low positive numbers during the daytime. It remains to be seen if we will get to see much sunshine. So it seems we are going to have a little breather from the relentless snowfall. I'm not exactly sure why but as we approach 8:30am it would seem that the top lifts at Hirafu, Village and Annupuri are on hold. Hopefully that should be a temporary early morning thingie. Not to fear. Colder temps and snow should be back by Monday. Remember, Santa-san should be here in Niseko over the weekend. Obviously, his chosen destination. (Note: there might even be some dudes dressing up and pretending to be Santa-san around town; don't be fooled by them!) As per the Avalanche Report below it seems that decisions are yet to be made regarding gates. There's lots of talk about them opening tomorrow, but we'll have to wait and see. I will of course bring you any news when I have it. I hope you have a fun day wherever you are. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 4am: -1℃, light snowfall, calm. Moiwa800m: -4.9℃, W5.5m/s, developing snowdrifts and cornices, light snowfall, good visibility. Annupuri/Hirafu data n/a. Coastal data: NNW10m/s, WSW8m/s, 1021hPa, 1.3m waves. The wind is calming down as the atmospheric pressure gradient is flattening. The snowdrifts are stabilizing, however a weak layer of yesterday’s hail is present at around 40cm depth. Leeward cornice/knoll slopes above 800m are starting to stabilize, however precaution is still required. 150cm thick slab avalanche hazard continues in strictly off limits Haru no Taki area. South facing slopes are the most affected by the sun and thin wet snow slabs that can be the trigger of a large slide are more likely to form. Potential trigger layer is Dec 14th’s low pressure system snowfall. Many of the avalanche accidents occur during and just after storms and heavy snowfall. Looking at the snowfall transition of the last few days, if a slide occurs in the Backbowl’s higher slopes, it would be a very large avalanche that would run a very long distance at a great speed. Do not underestimate the hazard of avalanches. Once the wind calms down and snowfall stops, the snowpack will eventually stabilize. Just a little more patience, please. The snow in the trees is dense and in great shape. Peak lifts operation is undecided as hazard of cornice collapse off the peak is present. Once safety is confirmed, the lifts will start running. Peak gates opening will be delayed. Have a nice day. --- Friday 22nd December 2017 What's planned to be open today in Niseko (subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Lifts operating: - Hirafu Gondola (* nighta) - Ace Number 1 pair lift - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad lift (* nighta) - Ace Number 3 pair lift - Ace Family quad lift (* nighta) - Holiday Number 1 pair lift (* nighta) - Swinging Monkey - King Number 1 pair lift - King Number 3 quad lift - King Number 4 Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts operating: - Hanazono Number 1 quad lift - Hanazono Number 2 quad lift - Hanazono Number 3 quad lift Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts operating: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift (* nighta) - Jumbo Number 2 pair lift - Jumbo Number 4 pair lift - Dream Number 1 quad lift Niseko Village Lifts operating: - Niseko Gondola - Banzai Chair - Community Chair (* nighta) - Upper Village Gondola (* nighta) - Village Express (* nighta) - Morino Chair - Wonderland Chair --- Official resort snow depths on Friday 22nd December 2017: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 300cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Top - 210cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 210cm Base - 150cm --- Floodlit 'nighta' skiing: Night skiing is planned for every evening at the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas. There is no nighta at the Niseko HANAZONO area. Ski lifts that are scheduled to be operating for nighta are noted above. Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Friday 22nd December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 475cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 32 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (21st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 287cm reported on 21 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 38cm Snowfall at base this season 464cm Posted on Thursday 21st December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A very good morning to you from Niseko. Is it still snowing? Yes, it most certainly is. And today I add another 38cm of snow to the report. I am kidding you not. That brings my observed snowfall for the season so far to a whopping 464cm. Eek! I see the report for today below is saying 'the snow is great, but maybe too deep'. That's just silly isn't it. ;) But seriously, while it is natural to get jolly excited and worked up about the special situation we are currently experiencing with all this lovely snowfall, we do indeed need to be remain mindful of the dangers that such things bring with them. Enjoy, but be careful. It really does look like once the snow clouds clear up and disperse today, we are going to have a few days break from snow and perhaps get some of that sunshine we have been expecting on the forecast. If we do get some sun, enjoy it while it lasts...because more snow expected from Christmas Day. Welcome to all of you folk arriving in Niseko at the moment. You chose wisely. Have fun! It won't be difficult. :) --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -７℃, 20cm snowfall, calm. Moiwa800m: -9.6℃, W4.1m/s, 40cm snowfall, large development of snowdrifts. Annupuri1150m: -10℃, 40cm snowfall, NW10m/s, not easy to groom. Hirafu1200m: -10℃, 40cm snowfall, snowpack 280cm. Costal data: Benkei cape NW9m/s, Kamui cape W10m/s, 1014hPa, 1.7m waves. The isobars are spreading out, a westerly wind is stagnating around 10m/s on the ocean and the mountains. The overnight snowfall deposited large settlements of snowdrifts in leeward slopes around 800m. The snowdrifts are growing stably, however is growing too big. The avalanche risk is relatively low, however always think safety first. The snowpack in Hirafu is almost reaching 300cm. 100+cm thick avalanche is likely to occur in strictly off-limits Haru no Taki area, due to drastic accumulation of snowpack and forming of unstable slabs. If the sun comes out today, surface slabs will keep forming and hazard level will rise drastically. Do not enter strictly off-limits area, they are banned for good reasons. The snow is great, but maybe too deep. Beware of suffocation during falls. This season’s snowfall is surprising people from around the world. Peak gates are scheduled to open this weekend. Please respect the ski patrol’s decisions. Do not duck ropes and respect the Niseko Rules. --- Thursday 21st December 2017 What's planned to be open today in Niseko (subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Lifts operating: - Ace Number 3 Pair lift - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad lift (* nighta) - Ace Family quad lift (* nighta) - King Number 3 quad lift - Hirafu Gondola (* nighta) - Holiday Number 1 pair lift (* nighta) - Swinging Monkey - King Number 4 Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts operating: - Hanazono Number 1 quad lift - Hanazono Number 2 quad lift - Hanazono Number 3 quad lift Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts operating: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift (* nighta) - Jumbo Number 2 pair lift - Jumbo Number 4 pair lift - Dream Number 1 quad lift Niseko Village Lifts operating: - Niseko Gondola - Banzai Chair - Community Chair (* nighta) - Upper Village Gondola (* nighta) - Village Express (* nighta) - Wonderland Chair --- Official resort snow depths on Thursday 21st December 2017: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 320cm Base - 155cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Top - 200cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 210cm Base - 150cm --- Floodlit 'nighta' skiing: Night skiing is planned for every evening at the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas. There is no nighta at the Niseko HANAZONO area. Ski lifts that are scheduled to be operating for nighta are noted above. Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Thursday 21st December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 464cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 31 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (21st December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 276cm reported on 20 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 19cm Snowfall at base this season 426cm Posted on Wednesday 20th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here 'Only' 19cm of fresh snow to report on this cold and snowy morning. Light snow falling as I write this report with somewhat limited visibility outside from the look of the webcam images. It looks like we might be heading towards a few days where there might not be much fresh snowfall along with milder conditions. Don't worry, though, as Santa will be here with his presents and more snow by Monday. With all the snow we have had, I think there's probably more than a few people looking forward to the chance of a day or two featuring some blue sky and sunshine. If it's not snowing, some sun would be nice... though we'd like it to remain as cold as possible of course to keep the snow in fine condition. Hearing more about probable plans for gate openings... soon! Yey! --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -9°, 15cm new snow, light winds. Moiwa 800m : -12°, W10.8m/s, 20cm new snow, major snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -15°, W16m/s, 30cm new snow, major snowdrift development. Hirafu 1200m: -16°, light blizzard, 15cm new snow, poor visibility. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW16m/s. Kamui Cape: WSW14m/s, 1020hPa, wave 2.2m. The winter weather pattern has not changed. Overnight the atmospheric pressure gradient increased, winds picked up, and seas have been increasing hour by hour. Snowdrifts on south west facing slopes between 800 and 1200m, there has been 120cm new growth on top of Jan 12-14 low pressure snowfall layer. Gusting conditions has caused uneven development , expect fractures between 60-120cm depending on location. From observation and snowfall transition, the avalanche risk is high on cornice and knolls slopes between 800-1100m. Today is cold. This morning the isobars are moving apart and wind will drop, however take care of frostbite. Do not stimulate knolls or cornices on open slopes, ride one by one. Do not wait in the valley bottoms. Snow in the forest is heavier than yesterday but still has good bounce. Do not enter strictly off limits areas Haru no Taki and Yu no Sawa. From the snowfall transition Haru no Taki is especially dangerous. Peak gates are still being prepared at Hirafu and Annupuri aiming for Friday opening. Please listen to the patrols advice. Winter came early this year, have a good season. --- Wednesday 20th December 2017 What's planned to be open today in Niseko (subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Lifts operating: - Ace Number 3 Pair lift - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad lift (* nighta) - Ace Family quad lift (* nighta) - King Number 3 quad lift - Hirafu Gondola (* nighta) - Holiday Number 1 pair lift (* nighta) - Swinging Monkey - King Number 4 Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts operating: - Hanazono Number 1 quad lift - Hanazono Number 2 quad lift - Hanazono Number 3 quad lift Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts operating: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift (* nighta) - Jumbo Number 2 pair lift - Jumbo Number 4 pair lift - Dream Number 1 quad lift Niseko Village Lifts operating: - Niseko Gondola - Banzai Chair - Community Chair (* nighta) - Upper Village Gondola (* nighta) - Village Express (* nighta) - Wonderland Chair --- Official resort snow depths on Wednesday 20th December 2017: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 300cm Base - 140cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Top - 190cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 190cm Base - 130cm --- Floodlit 'nighta' skiing: Night skiing is planned for every evening at the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas. There is no nighta at the Niseko HANAZONO area. Ski lifts that are scheduled to be operating for nighta are noted above. Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 20th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 426cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 30 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (19th December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 238cm 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 281cm Posted on Wednesday 20th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . It is another cold -9c morning here in the town and the temperature is set to top out at a not warm -6c. Luckily there is little in the way of wind, just a slight breeze evident at the moment. New snow on the ground is respectable at 5cm and will mean the groomers will be in fantastic powdered corduroy condition. However, due to very overcast skies I would expect some low light conditions on the slopes. Tomorrow looks promising with the sun likely to be out. Furano Zone open. Kitanomine Zone partially open. Kitanomine Gondola closed. Furano Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 20th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 281cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 30 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 28cm (5th December) November 2017 snowfall 125cm reported on 13 days December 2017 snowfall 156cm 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 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 Shiga Kogen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 206cm Posted on Wednesday 20th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Shiga Kogen Now report can be found here . After that good start to the day yesterday, we were into snowfall and windy weather conditions again by the afternoon. Not huge amounts of snow this time though. And this morning... we're back to clear skies and sunshine. There's more of this due over the next run of days too, probably until Sunday. It's really cold this morning but we can expect somewhat warmer conditions late week and over the weekend. The cold will be back for Monday though and that is when the next decent snowfall is expected. No fresh snowfall expected before the weekend but I do expect more areas to open at the weekend. More people will be here for Christmas and in the run up to New Year, so as much as possible will be open. Areas of Shiga Kogen that are at least part open: - Okushiga Kogen - Yakebitaiyama - Ichinose Yamanokami - Ichinose Diamond - Ichinose Family - Tannenomori - Takamagahara Mammoth - Maruike - Sun Valley - Kumanoyu - Yokoteyama - Shibutoge Shiga Kogen Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 20th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 206cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 19 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (14th December) November 2017 snowfall 47cm reported on 6 days December 2017 snowfall 159cm 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 Myoko region of Niigata New snowfall at base 31cm Snowfall at base this season 337cm Posted on Wednesday 20th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Myoko Now report can be found here . Good news: 31cm of fresh, light new snow. Kind of surprised yesterday to be in the office, looked outside, and once again we had a mini-blizzard blowing away. Nice snow, star-shaped crystals. It looks great, but it’s still not enough to get out in the backcountry. Expect lots of brush and vines and inability to traverse and troubles (to keep the story short, wait a bit more!) Akakura Kanko: 170 cm, -6° Lifts: Myokokogen Sky Cable (gondola); Hotel No. 2, 3, 5; Champion No. 1 and 3 Akakura Onsen: 180cm, -6° Lifts: All main lifts Ikenotaira Onsen: 90cm (under-reporting, Ikenotaira?), -5°; Shirakaba Capsule, Alpine Blick No. 1 and No.2 Myoko Suginohara: 125cm, -4°; gondola only Seki Onsen: 80 cm, -5° (old report); open Dec. 22 Myoko Ski Park: 160 cm, -2°; closed for lift inspection Kyukamura RunRun: 230 cm, -1° Tangram Ski Circus: 110 cm, -5°; No. 1 pair, No. 3 quad, No. 5 quad, No. 6 pair Madarao Kogen: 90 cm, -1°; No. 1, No. 2 quad Myoko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 20th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 337cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 12 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 54cm (14th December) November 2017 snowfall 61cm reported on 3 days December 2017 snowfall 276cm 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 Myoko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Nozawa Onsen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 7cm Snowfall at base this season 148cm Posted on Wednesday 20th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Nozawa Now report can be found here . There's more sunshine and blue sky over the region early this morning. It's cold too with the thermometer showing -4C outside just before. It should warm up a bit and get into low positive numbers by this afternoon. The resort is reporting 20cm of snowfall up on the top areas since yesterday from the snow that started falling in the afternoon yesterday. Not as much down below. It is looking like we might have to wait until Christmas Day on Monday for the next delivery of fresh snowfall; though what Santa-san plans to bring us does look promising. Before then though we can expect a fair bit of sunshine - and milder conditions - if the forecasts are correct. Let's hope it doesn't warm up too much. In the meantime, plenty of snow to enjoy with most of the resort already open. All lifts operating except the following: - Mizunashi triple - Challenge pair - Utopia pair - Kandahar pair - Karasawa pair All courses now at least part open except the following: - Challenge 39 wall - Utopia B - Mukobayashi - Grand Prix - Hachiman - Kandahar Fresh snowfall (as reported by the resort): - Yamabiko (1407m): 21cm - Uenotaira (1230m): 20cm - Hikage (660m): -cm - Nagasaka (615m): 23cm - Karasawa (563m): -cm Official snow depth numbers: - Yamabiko (1407m): 175cm - Uenotaira (1230m): 160cm - Hikage (660m): 110cm - Nagasaka (615m): 90cm - Karasawa (563m): 80cm Nozawa Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 20th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 148cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 12 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 41cm (14th December) November 2017 snowfall 21cm reported on 2 days December 2017 snowfall 127cm reported 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 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 Madarao region of Nagano New snowfall at base 7cm Snowfall at base this season 211cm Weather overview Sunny Wind Light Temperature - Visibility Excellent Posted on Wednesday 20th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Madarao Now report can be found here . It's a cold and very sunny morning once again here in Madarao. Some fresh snow from last night means that it should be a very agreeable morning out on the open slopes. More sunshine is on the forecast over the next few days with the next snow due on Monday. Official snow depth: 95cm Operating lifts: Number 1 lift Number 2 quad lift Open courses Paradise Beginners B Utopia Giant (lower) Curving Pole A Lower lift ticket prices for opening until 22nd December. Planned nighta operations this season: Daily between 29th December 2017 and 3rd January 2018 7th January 2018 11th February 2018 Every Saturday between 4th January and 24th March 2018 Madarao Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Wednesday 20th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 211cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 11 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 49cm (on 14th December) November 2017 snowfall 60cm reported on 3 days December 2017 snowfall 151cm reported on 8 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 Madarao. 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 35cm Snowfall at base this season 407cm Posted on Tuesday 19th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A very good morning from Niseko. I have an impressive 35cm of fresh snow to report to you since yesterday morning. Avalanche control at Mizuno-no-sawa started yesterday, as mentioned below, and hopefully we will see gates opening at the weekend. It's always exciting and it will be good to get that 'last piece' of the puzzle set up and going. --- The snow I am reporting today takes the total haul for this season - observed by me, at base - to over 4m. Lordy dordy, we really need to try to not get complacent about this. And to really appreciate it as well. Especially after the less spectacular starts we have had in recent years. I certainly hope that the season continues like this, but can it and will it? Obviously we will see as the weeks move on and we get a complete picture of the season. For now though... sugoi! --- I am hearing rumors/rumours that a certain Santa Claus has heard about the snowfall here in Niseko this year, and has decided to take a bit of time off from his main duties to appear on the slopes on 23rd and 24th December. It is unconfirmed if he will be skiing or snowboarding but apparently even as he enjoys himself, he will still have a supply of presents to give to folk. What a thoroughly decent chap. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -6°, 30cm new snow, light winds. Moiwa 800m : -9.6°, W4.1m/s(overnight gusting to 15m/s), 40cm new snow, cornice and snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -13°, W8m/s, 50cm new snow, snow depth 1000m- 170cm, increasing. Hirafu 1200m: -13°, light winds, 50cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW9m/s(2am: 17m/s). Kamui Cape: W10m/s, 1014hPa, wave 1.7m. The wind pattern hasn't changed and heavy snow continues falling in the Niseko mountains. Grooming machines are having a hard time keeping up with it. The snow is so deep you should take snow shoes if you are snowboarding. From survey and data, on leeward slopes, cornices and knolls, above 800m there is risk of large scale surface avalanches triggered by rider stimulation. Avoid cliffs and steep areas. Snow in the forest is good but too deep. Mizuno no Sawa avalanche control started yesterday and is expected to open this weekend. Hirafu and Annupuri peak gates are also expected to open at the same time. Please be patient. Poor visibility today due to snow fall. Take care falling into holes or hitting trees. Cracks are hard to see from above. Do not duck ropes. Have a good day. --- Tuesday 19th December 2017 What's planned to be open today in Niseko (subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Lifts operating: - Ace Number 3 Pair lift - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad lift (* nighta) - Ace Family quad lift (* nighta) - King Number 3 quad lift - Hirafu Gondola (* nighta) - Holiday Number 1 pair lift (* nighta) - Swinging Monkey - King Number 4 Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts operating: - Hanazono Number 1 quad lift - Hanazono Number 2 quad lift - Hanazono Number 3 quad lift Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts operating: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift (* nighta) - Jumbo Number 2 pair lift - Jumbo Number 4 pair lift - Dream Number 1 quad lift Niseko Village Lifts operating: - Niseko Gondola - Banzai Chair - Community Chair (* nighta) - Upper Village Gondola (* nighta) - Village Express (* nighta) - Wonderland Chair --- Official resort snow depths on Tuesday 19th December 2017: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 310cm Base - 140cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Top - 170cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 180cm Base - 120cm --- Floodlit 'nighta' skiing: Night skiing is planned for every evening at the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas. There is no nighta at the Niseko HANAZONO area. Ski lifts that are scheduled to be operating for nighta are noted above. Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Tuesday 19th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 407cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 29 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (19th December) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 219cm 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 Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 7cm Snowfall at base this season 276cm Posted on Tuesday 19th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . There is no snow falling now but there is 7cm of new snow on the ground that sneaked in there over night. It is calm in the village but probably a light breeze actually on the resort. It looks to be fully overcast and no sun is managing to break through that cloud barrier. From tomorrow the weather looks good with a cloud and sun mix through until the end of the week. Furano Zone open. Kitanomine Zone partially open. Kitanomine Gondola closed. Furano Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Tuesday 19th December 2017 Total snowfall at base 276cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 29 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 28cm (5th December) November 2017 snowfall 125cm reported on 13 days December 2017 snowfall 151cm 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 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 372cm Posted on Monday 18th December 2017 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here The good news continues. Heavy snowfall since last night; it is currently snowing heavily and I measured 25cm of fresh snow on the ground here by Hirafu base. And. There's lots more snow scheduled to arrive over the next few days. Marvellous. I've got some computer stuff to do this morning and while the conditions should be really great, it's very cold and visibility looks rather limited so I'm not feeling to hard done by. Time for some extra celebratory toast. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -7°, 25cm new snow, calm. Moiwa 800m : -10°, WSW3.5m/s, 30cm new snow, slow snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -13°, W10m/s, 30cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1200m: -14°, W10m/s, 30-40cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW14m/s. Kamui Cape: WSW10m/s, 1016hPa, wave 1.4m. A weak snow wind continues with the East/West low pressure arrangement, snow drifts are developing slowly, however because of the amount of snow that has fallen, around 800m growth has been over 60cm . From impact test, 50cm slab is breaking easily and stabilisation is delayed. There is the possibility of a large scale avalanche in the following areas -West Ridge south slope, Mikaeri Bowl, East Ridge cornice slope, Strictly off Limits Haru no Taki and Yu no Sawa side wall. The snow is deep and good in the forest. The snow wind is relatively weak at 15m/s but has continued for a long time, so a lot of snow has built up. Avoid riding under cornices, knolls and lift lines. Do not duck ropes to ride out of bounds. Others will follow 1 track, leading to higher risk of accident. Careful of frostbite. Have a good day. --- Monday 18th December 2017 What's planned to be open today in Niseko (subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Lifts operating: - Ace Number 3 Pair lift - Ace Number 2 Center Four quad lift (* nighta) - Ace Family quad lift (* nighta) - King Number 3 quad lift - Hirafu Gondola (* nighta) - Holiday Number 1 pair lift (* nighta) - Swinging Monkey - King Number 4 Niseko HANAZONO Resort Lifts operating: - Hanazono Number 1 quad lift - Hanazono Number 2 quad lift - Hanazono Number 3 quad lift Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Lifts operating: - Annupuri Gondola - Jumbo Number 1 quad lift (* nighta) - Jumbo Number 2 pair lift - Jumbo Number 4 pair lift - Dream Number 1 quad lift Niseko Village Lifts operating: - Niseko Gondola - Banzai Chair - Community Chair (* nighta) - Upper Village Gondola (* nighta) - Village Express (* nighta) - Wonderland Chair --- Official resort snow depths on Monday 18th December 2017: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 280cm Base - 130cm Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Top - 170cm Base - 120cm Niseko Village Top - 170cm Base - 110cm --- Floodlit 'nighta' skiing: Night skiing is planned for every evening at the Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri areas. There is no nighta at the Niseko HANAZONO area. Ski lifts that are scheduled to be operating for nighta are noted above. Niseko Now 2017-2018 season Data as of Monday 18th December 2017 Total snowfall at base so far 372cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 28 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 29cm (20th November) November 2017 snowfall 188cm reported on 11 days December 2017 snowfall 184cm 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