Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 306cm Posted on Friday 1st January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning and a very happy New Year to you all. Did you have fun tonight? I enjoyed watching some fireworks from a relatively quiet corner and have managed to get myself up pretty much as normal this morning. Looks like quite a lot of people have also been able to, though I guess many will have a later start today. Just 1cm of fresh snow to report to you this morning but it is snowing again this morning so I expect more tomorrow. Some really great conditions to enjoy yesterday as well as some gate action. Now that almost all of the resort course areas are now open it won't be long before all of the gates join in the fun. Please keep an eye on the Avalanche Report posted below. The forecast remains good for continued snowfall in the coming week. Yey! --- Let's take a look at the snowfall numbers for December 2015 and the season as a whole so far. In December 2015 I observed a total of 244cm of snowfall here at Hirafu base, which made for a total of 308cm so far since the start of the season. Last year I observed 519cm of snowfall in the month of December, so effectively there was over twice as much as this year (though there was a bit more this year in November than the previous season). Here's the numbers lined up: December 2013 - 275cm (398cm since start of season) December 2014 - 519cm (549cm since start of season) December 2015 - 244cm (308cm since start of season) The Japan Meteorological Agency - who record numbers in Kutchan town (close by but a bit lower down than my position) - have the following numbers over the last three seasons. These numbers are as you might expect a little lower than what I observe up here. December 2013 - 258cm (357cm since start of season) December 2014 - 387cm (428cm since start of season) December 2015 - 194cm (229cm since start of season) It's worth noting again that higher up on the mountain there will be more snowfall than down here at base. It is often said that you can probably add about 50% extra on to what we get at base to get an idea of how much snow falls up there. The number to beat for the month of January? I observed 257cm in the month of January 2015 and 461cm for January 2014. Let's hope this January is a repeat of 2014! I'll keep a track on all of these numbers as the season progresses... --- Resort specific news/notes at time of writing (subject to change during the day) Niseko Grand Hirafu All courses now open. Niseko HANAZONO Resort All courses now open. Niseko Village Resort appears to be open as normal this morning. Niseko Annupuri 12 of 13 courses now open. Early gondola from 7:20am-8:20am on January 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th. Charge 1000 yen. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: light sprinkle of snow and calm. Moiwa 800m: -8℃, 5cm of new snow, W8m/s, 30cm snowdrifts. Anupuri 1150m: northerly 8m/s, -10℃, light development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW11m/s, Kamui cape N6m/s, 1019hPa, 1.2m waves. Gates 4, 5, 6 and 10 will open today. Looking at the snowfall transition, weather data, and morning observations, the general avalanche risk is low. Out of bounds riding in Niseko and anywhere else in Japan is yet to be officially recognized by the Hokkaido and federal government. All activities outside the resort boundaries must be done at one’s own risk, however the ski resorts and the local community is deploying various efforts in order to improve the safety of all resort users. Search and rescue operations are still difficult to conduct due to lack of snow, which is one of the reason the opening of the peak gates is delayed, however, preparations is moving on and it shouldn’t be too long before we start opening all gates. We appreciate your patience. The slopes above 500m altitude has been moderately reset with the wind-drifts. Happy New Year and have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Friday 1st January 2016: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 255cm Base - 115cm Niseko Village: Top - 185cm Base - 100cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 120cm Base - 100cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Friday 1st January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 306cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 22 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 1cm 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 14cm Snowfall at base this season 357cm Posted on Thursday 7th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Oh dear, I noticed yesterday afternoon that fairly soon after I had posted my morning report (when I was saying that all resorts were planning on being open as normal), wind was affecting some lifts around the resorts. Over at Annupuri early on it was the top Jumbo 4 lift; at Hirafu it was the top King Number 4 and Ace Number 3 lifts; and at Niseko Village the top Wonderland Chair. Later in the day around lunchtime the Annupuri Gondola and Jumbo Number 3 lift at Annupuri also stopped, with the Jumbo 3 lift starting up again fairly soon after. Hanazono also stopped their top Hanazono 3 quad mid afternoon. So, in the end we were affected by the wind. Sorry about that! I always try and give you the latest available information at the time of posting my report, and around 8:30am is usually a good time to be able to do that. But conditions (both nature and resort operations) can of course change quickly and alas I am not online all day doing live reports. Anyway, on to this morning and I have another respectable 14cm of fresh snow to report to you from by my base here in Hirafu. It's nice and cold and there seems to be less wind on mountain this morning, so fingers crossed resorts and lifts will be open as planned and able to stay all open for the day. It should be another excellent day out there and the forecast remains regular snowfall right through the coming week. Things are shaping up very nicely. --- This morning I thought it would be quite interesting to check out the Hirafu Ace Number 2 Quad lift webcam early in order to see when people start lining up for it. The first people in the queue seemed to arrive just before 7:50am and by 8am the line was long enough for it to fill the webcam image. That lift starts moving at 8:30am. I am referring to the third webcam image that can be found here by the way. I may be wrong but I'd be surprised if there were many ski resorts in Japan where people are queuing for a ski lift over 30 minutes before it opens. --- Niseko Grand Hirafu will start their 'Early Morning' (*rumours of it being re-named 'Early Moaning' are unconfirmed right now) service from January 9th and that should continue through until 31st January 2016. Basically they start up the Ace Quad lift Number 2 earlier than normal from 8am to 8:20am with the Super, Furiko, Green, Alpen and Sen-no-ki courses open. A special ticket is required for that 20 minutes and it costs 500 yen - it can be bought from the .Base lift ticket counter. Note that normal lift tickets will not get you a ride on the lifts during this special early time. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -7℃, 15cm snowfall, no development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: NW8m/s, 60cm of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -12℃, WNW15m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW12m/s, Kamui cape WNW10m/s, 1019hPa, 2.1m waves. Typical winter pressure distribution is generating intermittent westerly wind with snowfall above 600m elevation. Looking at snow cat’s fracture test, the newly formed 50cm thick slab’s shock propagation is relatively small, showing that the snowdrifts are developing while stabilizing itself. The overall avalanche risk is relatively small in areas below 1000m elevation. The storm is stronger above 1000m and the wind-chill can easily lead to hypothermia. Wool base layers are recommended when touring. Gates 3 (Hirafu peak) and 2 (Annupuri peak) are scheduled to open today. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Traversing across under cornices is as if trying to deliberately triggering an avalanche. DO NOT! Many hazards are present in the mountains, but can be avoided if you are aware of them and stay prudent. Never underestimate the dangers, always remain humble and think safety first. The snow is in a wonderful condition today. --- Official resort snow depths as of Thursday 7th January 2016: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 270cm Base - 120cm Niseko Village: Top - 190cm Base - 110cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 140cm Base - 100cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 7th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 357cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 27 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 52cm reported on 6 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 11cm Snowfall at base this season 368cm Posted on Friday 8th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's more snow to report this morning, 11cm of new fresh around my place. I was kind of expecting more this morning with the continued snowfall, but let's perhaps not get too greedy. Visibility looks more limited this morning as the snow continues to fall, sometimes heavier than others. As I write this report it is snowing lightly. And that forecast... well, it is still showing consistent snowfall and low temperatures over the coming week. Conditions are really great at the moment and the regular top-ups over the coming week probably mean that the good times are going to continue. We couldn't ask for much more than that. --- Yesterday I mentioned the Niseko Grand Hirafu early morning service, so this morning I thought I would gather up the other similar things going on at the other resorts. Monday 11th January is a national holiday in Japan - 'Coming of Age Day' - and to celebrate Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village resorts are also offering early services. And here are the details: Niseko Grand Hirafu 'Early Morning' Dates: Saturday 9th January until Sunday 31st January 2016 Time: 8:00am until 8:20am Cost: 500 yen Details: Ace Number 2 Quad lift with the Super, Furiko, Green, Alpen and Sen-no-ki courses open Niseko Annupuri 'First Run' Dates: Saturday 9th, Sunday 10th, Monday 11th January 2016 Time: 7:20am until 8:20am Cost: 1,000 yen Details: Gondola operation Niseko Village 'Early Morning Gondola' Dates: Saturday 9th, Sunday 10th, Monday 11th January 2016 Time: 7:30am until 8:30am Cost: 1,300 yen Details: Gondola operation It's important to note that these early morning lift operations require special tickets, which basically means that you have to pay extra for them. Season tickets and normal day passes cannot be used. So if you want to lay down first tracks up there, then you need to get out your change. In the case of bad weather conditions any or all of these may be cancelled. Good timing with the snow and weather and it can be fantastic, I did it once myself. Personally though I can't help but feel that it would be good if they could all just open up early for everyone and drop the extra charges, but I suppose the 'premium' aspect then disappears doesn't it. --- And talking of first runs... Hirafu Ace Number 2 Quad lift early morning webcam watch! Following on from my highly scientific observations yesterday, I thought I would give it another go this morning. I actually started putting this report together at 7:45am and there were no people there yet, other than staff. The first people arrived to wait for the lift at 7:59am and the line was longer than the photo could cope with by 8:12am. I wonder how long it gets by the time the lift starts. I must admit I haven't been there at the start of a day in quite a number of years (other things keep me busy around that time!) --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko Base 6am: -5℃, 10cm snowfall, light development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: -8℃, 20cm snowfall with development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -11℃, W15m/s, 10cm new snow on the courses and development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -10℃, 15cm snowfall and snowdrifts developing slowly. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW17m/s, Kamui cape WSW12m/s, 1009hPa, 2.6m waves. Isobars are momentarily narrowing in the winter pressure distribution chart generating snowdrifts development above 800m elevation. The snowfall amount is not big but weak and easily collapsible new slabs have formed under cornices and knoll terrain above 900m elevation. Better not traverse or group-ride these features. The avalanche risk is considerable in 40°slopes above 1000m. Be well aware and prepared. The snow under treeline is wind-packed suitable for skiing, overhead conditions in some places. Cornices are unstable and could fall anytime. Most gates are scheduled to open, please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Have a nice day. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Friday 8th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 368cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 28 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 63cm reported on 7 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 11cm Snowfall at base this season 379cm Posted on Saturday 9th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and the start of the long weekend as Monday being a holiday in Japan (Coming of Age Day). As far as I can tell this morning Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri resort areas all went ahead with their planned early morning services and they will also be happening tomorrow and Monday - more details on those can be found below. So yes, I have more fresh snow to report this morning as it continues to pile up. My ruler tell me it's another 11cm, so the last five days it has been around 10cm-15cm of fresh per day. (Here at base of course. No doubt more up there on the mountain). If you take a look at the graph near the bottom of the page as well (during today), you will see just how consistent the last few weeks has been. Very nice. There still doesn't look like there will be much of a break in the snowfall in the coming week as it is still forecast to be falling from the skies at a consistent pace. Soon we will no doubt be hearing some folk yearning for clear sunny weather rather than snow. Actually I wouldn't mind that myself - as long as we get the snow overnight before it of course. It is snowing still as I write the report this morning and should continue be for most of the day with some forecasts predicting the snow easing off this afternoon but back later tonight. There's not much else to report really - all is good. Very good, in fact. I hope that you have a very enjoyable weekend. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -6℃, 10cm of new snow, no development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: -8℃, light westerly breeze, 15cm of new snow with snowdrift development. Mikaeri anemometer: -10.8℃, W1.8m/s. Annupuri 1150m: -9℃, W15m/s, snowdrifts developing. Hirafu 1000m: -10℃, mild westerly wind, 10cm new snow with overnight snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW18m/s, Kamui cape WSW12m/s, 1009hPa, 2.6m waves. The winter pressure distribution continues with moderate snow and wind above 800m, stronger wind in higher elevation. The new snowdrifts are forming soft slabs, the general avalanche risk is moderate in most areas. Peak gates are scheduled to open. Listen to the ski patrol’s instructions before stepping out of the gates. Intermittent stronger snowfall and wind are predicted as the isobars moves on. Beware of hypothermia and frostbites. The hazard evaluation is relatively low at this stage but the conditions may change quickly. Always remain prudent and humble in the mountains. The snow is in a fantastic condition. --- Niseko Grand Hirafu 'Early Morning' Dates: Until Sunday 31st January 2016 Time: 8:00am until 8:20am Cost: 500 yen Details: Ace Number 2 Quad lift with the Super, Furiko, Green, Alpen and Sen-no-ki courses open Niseko Annupuri 'First Run' Dates: Sunday 10th, Monday 11th January 2016 Time: 7:20am until 8:20am Cost: 1,000 yen Details: Gondola operation Niseko Village 'Early Morning Gondola' Dates: Sunday 10th, Monday 11th January 2016 Time: 7:30am until 8:30am Cost: 1,300 yen Details: Gondola operation It's important to note that these early morning lift operations require special tickets, which basically means that you have to pay extra for them. Season tickets and normal day passes cannot be used. In the case of bad weather conditions they may be cancelled. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Saturday 9th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 379cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 29 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 74cm 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 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 399cm Posted on Sunday 10th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A very good morning to you from Niseko. And this morning I have another full 20cm of light fresh snow to report. That's since my last report up until the time I took my measurement at 8am this morning. Oh yes. I like 20cm and above. It's enough to fill in the tracks very nicely. And there's lots of tracks to fill in here in Niseko of course. Since I started putting this report together it has been snowing lightly and then eased off. And there's actually a hint of sun coming through the clouds at the moment in some places but that probably won't last long with continued snowfall forecast for the day. Yesterday we did see some wind higher up that was threatening to affect everyone's fun again, but today I hope there won't be much of that. It seems fairly calm this morning actually here in Hirafu, though I note that Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri have clocked up some stronger wind numbers this morning (up to 14m/s westerly). To start the day though all four resort areas are opening as planned. What can I say other than it should be another excellent day out on the slopes today. People here in Niseko at the moment are getting to experience it at it's best. Wrap up well, have fun and... take care out there. --- With the consistent snowfall we have enjoyed here over the last few weeks - and seemingly that is still set to continue - it's hard to believe how lots of areas on the main island of Honshu are suffering this season; it just doesn't seem to want to snow properly yet in some places. Like I mentioned before I do not see it as a competition - something you get by not being in the 'selling' business! - so I'd be very happy for everyone and everywhere to have at least a normal season in terms of snowfall. But I have heard a few people up here almost enjoying reading the news from other places which seems somewhat... nasty. That's not cool. We had a pretty poor start as well this season, if you remember. Happily, nature turned on the snow taps for us. It can happen to us all so let's not get carried away and just hope for a very snowy Japan winter everywhere. That's what I think anyway. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -5℃, 20cm new snowfall, no snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -9℃, W10m/s with snowdrift developments. Annupuri 1150m: -10℃, W10m/s, snowdrifts above 1100m. Hirafu 1000m: -6℃, 20cm snowfall, light development of snowdrifts. Benkei cape: NNW13m/s, Kamui cape W8m/s, 1012hPa, 1.9m waves. A passing small low-pressure system dropped 20cm of fresh snow in areas above 800m Looking at observations, the snowdrifts’ growth is relatively slow and seems stable, however it is strongly recommended to stay away from cornices, refrain from dropping into a slope at once and to stay away from valley bottoms. The snow condition is very different in areas above 1100m. If the westerly wind picks up during the day, the avalanche hazard will rise drastically in areas above 1000m. Most of the accidents occur in snowdrifts loaded slopes during stormy weather. Be flexible with your touring routes. The snow in the trees is in excellent condition. Beware of collision and falling into cracks, which are difficult to notice from above. Most gates are scheduled to open, please follow the patrol’s instructions, be aware and be prepared of the risks you’re taking. Have a nice day. --- Niseko Grand Hirafu 'Early Morning' Dates: Until Sunday 31st January 2016 Time: 8:00am until 8:20am Cost: 500 yen Details: Ace Number 2 Quad lift with the Super, Furiko, Green, Alpen and Sen-no-ki courses open Niseko Annupuri 'First Run' Dates: Monday 11th January 2016 Time: 7:20am until 8:20am Cost: 1,000 yen Details: Gondola operation Niseko Village 'Early Morning Gondola' Dates: Monday 11th January 2016 Time: 7:30am until 8:30am Cost: 1,300 yen Details: Gondola operation It's important to note that these early morning lift operations require special tickets, which basically means that you have to pay extra for them. Season tickets and normal day passes cannot be used. In the case of bad weather conditions they may be cancelled. --- Official resort snow depths as of Sunday 10th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 285cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 190cm Base - 110cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 150cm Base - 100cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Sunday 10th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 399cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 30 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 94cm 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 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 11cm Snowfall at base this season 410cm Posted on Monday 11th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from my secret base here in Hirafu where I have another 11cm of fresh powder to report since yesterday. It's a very cold one today with the resorts reporting temperatures of -14C and -15C on upper areas. Brrrr. Be sure to be wrapped up well to go up there and face masks are recommended. There don't seem to be wind issues at the start of the day with all of the four resorts open as planned. However, we are warned of the possibility of stronger winds and more storm-like conditions so keep that in mind. The Niseko Grand Hirafu official snow depth numbers have actually taken a drop today even with the fresh snow. Perhaps it's all those naughty people making tracks and compacting the snow. ;) Not to worry as the weekly forecast still has regular and consistent snowfall lined up for the coming week. There doesn't seem to be a let up in sight just yet. Today is the last day of the long weekend in Japan, and the early morning services at Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri were until this morning. The Niseko Grand Hirafu early morning service will continue on until 31st January (more details in previous reports). --- Apologies for not mentioning this yet, but at Niseko Grand Hirafu the King Number 2 quad lift has been moving this weekend. (There were some interesting stories about that lift last year if you want to go check some archives, and it will be interesting to see if they will keep it running or just have it for holidays). I thought I would this morning also mention the Free Ride Park that they have going on over there at Niseko Grand Hirafu. I'm not really into park myself, but for those who are here's what they have: 4m table top, 5m table top, 7m table top, 5m wide box, 5m narrow box, 5m down rail, 8m double down rail, 5m cylinder rail, 5m U-rail. I hope I have written them all correctly. Sounds interesting actually, perhaps I should go and give it a whirl. It's open from 10am until 4pm. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -11℃, 20cm snowfall, no snowdrifts development. Moiwa 750m: -13℃, WSW10m/s, 20cm snow, cornices/snowdrifts are developing. Mikaeri turnoff: -13℃, W2.0m/s, 30cm snowfall with snowdrifts. Anupuri 1150m: -15℃, W8m/s, scarce snowfall on the course, developing snowdrifts. Hirafu 1200m: -15℃, stormy weather with poor visibility. Benkei cape: NNW14m/s. Kamui cape: NNW10m/s, 1015hPa, 2.4m waves. The winter pressure distribution is generating intermittent strong wind and snow in areas above 1000m as the isobars spacing shifts. The stabilization of the snowdrifts in slopes with cornice/knoll features is delayed and are highly likely to collapse. The overall avalanche hazard level is moderate to high, highest in leeside steep slopes above 1200m elevation. The peak gates’ opening will be delayed and hinge upon lifts operation. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Stay away from hazardous aspects. Coldest temperature of the season so far, beware of frostbites and hypothermia. Wind-affected soft snow has blanketed the tree runs. Cracks are opening and are hard to notice from above, be careful not to fall in one. --- Official resort snow depths as of Monday 11th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 280cm Base - 125cm Niseko Village Top - 200cm Base - 120cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 165cm Base - 110cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Monday 11th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 410cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 31 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 105cm 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 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 12cm Snowfall at base this season 422cm Posted on Tuesday 12th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A good morning to you from Niseko where... it has been snowing again. It has been doing quite a lot of that of late! This morning I have another 12cm of fine quality snow to add to the tally. Right at this moment it's just cloudy but snow falling is something that can happen any time and indeed those forecasts are still telling us to expect snow today and over the coming days. It also remains very cold. I am a bit earlier with my report this morning (out of necessity), but as I take the webcam images at 7:53am there's a bunch of folk already waiting for that Hirafu lift. Niseko Village look to be reporting winds of up to 17m/s up top so we'll have to keep an eye on that - hopefully wind won't be an issue today. It should be another excellent day. --- It's time to take another excite look at some numbers. In the first 12 reports of January 2016 I have observed 117cm of snowfall here at my Hirafu base (and 94cm over the last 7 days). Last year during the same 12 day start to January 2015, I actually recorded 162cm - so like-for-like we are actually behind on last year. And if you remember, at the end of December 2015 (for the season so far up to that point) we were also about 2.5m behind on the same period the previous season. The poor ('late') start to the season is of course a big reason for the December numbers, and perhaps the big picture is just one more reflection of the generally 'mild winter' that Japan has been experiencing so far. Even though obviously no-one could call it mild up here at the moment - rather, it's actually really cold. But that's beside the point. And of course we are still enjoying very respectful and regular refresh rates, so that's all great. So perhaps and we should just consider ourselves lucky given the prolonged poor early season in many other regions of the country. I am no meteorologist (as you can no doubt tell) but I did see an interview on television yesterday with one who was saying that there is a good chance that Japan as a whole will be getting colder and brushing aside this 'mild winter' soon. That would be good for everyone. It's exciting to think how January could end up for us here in Hokkaido if the consistency continues. Oh yes, please remember everyone my observations are - and always have been - from my base here in Hirafu. --- Following on from my comments yesterday, the King Number 2 quad lift at Niseko Grand Hirafu is being rested again from today, so it looks like it was a long holiday special. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -10℃, 15cm new snow, calm. Moiwa 800m: -13℃, W10m/s, developing cornices and snowdrifts. Mikaeri anemometer: SSW2.3m, -12.8℃. Annupuri 1150m: -15℃, W15m/s. Hirafu 1000m: -14℃, mild wind and 20cm snowfall. Benkei cape: WNW12m/s, Kamui cape W9m/s, 1013hPa, 2.3m waves. Typical winter pressure distribution (High in the west, Low in the east) continues. The wind is stagnating around 10-15m/s westerly at sea and in the sky. Intermittent gusts with heavy snowfall are making the snowdrifts and cornices grow slowly around 800m elevation. 120cm thick slab largely slid with the snow-cat pressure test, however seems stable with ski compaction. Looking at all data and observations, the avalanche hazard level under 1000m elevation is low. Peak gates will open as they’re ready. Please follow the patrol’s instructions and step out of the gates. Carrying avalanche transceivers (beacons) is not mandatory in Niseko, however it is strongly recommended to. It may save not only yours but other people’s lives. The avalanche hazard level in areas above 1100m is moderate to high. 60cm thick slides are likely to occur with ski compaction. Better not stimulate slopes with knolls and cornices. Beware of frostbites and hypothermia. Overall good conditions this morning. --- Official resort snow depths as of Tuesday 12th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 280cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 200cm Base - 120cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 165cm Base - 110cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Tuesday 12th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 422cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 32 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 117cm 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 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 460cm Posted on Thursday 14th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko where we have another 15cm of fresh snow on the ground. Yesterday I spent most of the morning at Hirafu and over at Hanazono. The conditions were fantastic out there, lots of deep snow to be played in; and lots of people playing as well. There was even a bit of sunshine at times in the morning but the snow clouds prevailed for most of the day, though it wasn't heavy. This morning the snow has been back and it is still snowing, though just lightly at the time of writing this report. There seems to be more of a wind around this morning and the resorts are reporting fairly strong wind up on the mountain so there's a chance that it may affect lifts today - though starting the day with the intentions of being open as planned. The forecast still shows a possible break in the snowfall around Sunday though that probably won't last long as we should be back to snow early in the week. If anything, early next week the snowfall may get heavier! Getting bored of all this snowfall? No, didn't think so! --- From this morning the 'Deep Snow Forest' (深雪林間) course will be open at Niseko Annupuri - meaning that all of their courses are now open. It's an ungroomed course, 400m in length and fairly close to base with a steepest gradient of 34 degrees and average gradient of 24 degrees. The resort describes it (in Japanese) as a tree run and off-piste course for advanced riders. Definitely worth a look I would say if you are gnarly enough. If you aren't gnarly enough just pretend you didn't know, or say you went somewhere even more gnarly. --- On the main NHK news last night they were headlining that there would be a piece on the economic effects of the 'mild winter' this year. Here was me thinking we would get an interesting in-depth look at how ski resorts are being affected in different regions around Japan... only to get a report on the price of cabbages. And daikon radishes. It was rather odd, perhaps a bit like the season. (For those of you interested, cabbages are apparently down 34% in price compared with last year. I can't remember the number for the daikon). --- In more serious news, it is very sad to hear about the avalanche incident over in the French Alps. A time to perhaps remember once again the potential dangers that are always close by with this sport that we love. Not that we should ever be forgetting those of course. Let's take care out there. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -7℃, 20cm of broken crystal snow with snowdrifts development. Moiwa 800m: W15m/s, 40cm snowfall with snowdrifts. Mikaeri 740m: -9.48℃, W6.7m/s, snowdrifts and bad visibility. Annupuri 1150m and Hirafu 1000m: strong westerly wind with large development of snowdrifts. Benkei cape: NNW14m/s, Kamui cape NW11m/s, 1008hPa, 1.5m waves. The wind picked up as the low-pressure system moved east, snowfall also picked up from 4am, generating large development of cornices and snowdrifts. 45cm thick surface slab avalanche are likely to occur in 800m knoll terrain. The storm is forecasted to calm down around 10am, however avalanche risk will remain high all morning in steep valley slopes above 800m elevation. Peak gates 2 & 3 will be closed at least until noon. Please follow the patrol’s instructions. Stay away from Osawa cornice area and Higashi-One cornice area, and do not duck ropes when gates are closed. Gates are the only access point to the out of bounds area. Conditions have changed from yesterday and hazard level is higher today, heavy load of unstable snowdrifts are present in some aspects and are highly likely to slide with riding stimulation. Cornices and knolls are signs to avoid. Most accidents occur during and just after storms. The snow in the tree runs is good, but depth is uneven. Beware of collision and falling in cracks that are hard to see from above. Respect the Rules and have a safe day. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 14th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 460cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 34 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 155cm 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 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 24cm Snowfall at base this season 484cm Posted on Friday 15th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here My oh my, we really are enjoying a superb patch right now, aren't we? There's 24cm of beautiful fresh new snowfall piled up round the back of my place this morning after the impressive snow that we had yesterday. Given that the mountain is often thought to get up to one and a half the amount we get here in the village area, that means we can very probably expect 30-35cm up there this morning. Out of duty I think I will have to force myself to make my way up there this morning right after posting this report, just so that I can check for myself and confirm. I already have most of my gear on! It's the kind of morning that I love as well. The sun is out and there's increasingly more blue sky as well. A beautiful morning... in so many ways. Niseko Grand Hirafu today breaks the 3m barrier for official snow depth up top. And oh yes, snowfall still on the forecast every day over the next week with some sun still a possibility on Sunday. Hurray! --- How many of you felt the earthquake yesterday at 12:31pm? It was quite a bit one as well - magnitude 6.7. The biggest shaking was felt in eastern parts of Hakodate city and along the coastline to the south east of Sapporo. Parts of Sapporo got a fair shake too. Here in the Niseko region a 'shindo 3' was recorded. The Japanese 'shindo' seismic intensity scale is actually very interesting and gives you a much better idea of how an earthquake affects people in different places on the ground rather than the simple magnitude number. It is measured in units which basically describe the degree of shaking at a point on the ground. Shindo 1 is a bit of wobble and some people might not notice it. The strongest Shindo 7 is a violent, destructive and terrifying earthquake. Wikipedia explains shindo 3 as being 'felt by most to all people indoors - some people are frightened' and 'objects inside rattle noticeably and can fall off tables'. Shindo 3 isn't destructive at all and so there were no problems here that I am aware of. Anyway, nothing to worry about. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -8℃, 30cm snowfall. Moiwa 800m: -10℃, E5m/s, 40cm of wind-compacted snow. Mikaeri 740m: NW8m/s at 4am, 40cm snowfall with development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, 50cm wind-affected slabs/ Hirafu 1000m: -10℃, mild wind, 30cm snowfall. Coastal data; Benkei cape S3m/s, Kamui cape ENE4m/s, 1014hPa, 1.5m waves. Heavy snowfall continued in the western areas above 800m until late night and snowdrifts have largely developed, however the wind calmed down after 1am and no real snowfall since then. Looking at the weather transition and snow observations, the snowpack is stabilizing and the overall avalanche hazard level is lowering, however risk remains high in leeside slopes above 1000m. Stay away from Osawa (Annupuri bowl) cornice/knolls and Higashi-One (East ridge above Hanazono) cornices/knolls. 50cm thick slab slides are still highly likely to occur. The snow is deep, beware of being stuck. Good idea to carry snowshoes/skins. Peak gates will open, please follow the patrol’s instructions. The snow is wind-affected, bit heavy, good consistency. Beware of collisions and cracks. Most accidents can be avoided by being prudent. Have a great day! --- Official resort snow depths as of Friday 15th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 310cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 230cm Base - 130cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 200cm Base - 140cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Friday 15th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 484cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 35 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 179cm reported on 14 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 17cm Snowfall at base this season 501cm Posted on Saturday 16th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu base here in Niseko. What a truly wonderful day yesterday was. The sun was out in the morning and there were lovely clear blue skies. It was good and cold. There were excellent deep snow conditions (I usually try to avoid that word, but I really could not think of another that fit better!) And then later on in the day the snow clouds came back and started to give us yet another refresh. So this morning my measure of the new snow is 17cm. I see that the Avalanche Report below is showing 20-30cm as well which is great to hear. Once again it's top quality stuff as well, dry and light, just how we like it. See if you can make a snowball out of it! This morning it has been snowing (again) though it is actually quite bright as I write this and I can see some blue skies over to the east and Mt Yotei. The sun seems to be breaking through in places too. --- I have observed 197cm of fresh snowfall here since the beginning of January, and over 504cm of snowfall since the season began. With the forecast still showing lots of snow over the coming week, it looks like we are very likely going to be easily 'beating' the snowfall I observed last January (which was 257cm). Perhaps we might even start to catch up on the total for the season even with our late start. Those of you who picked to come to Niseko around now... Congratulations! I hope it continues so that all of you folk coming soon can also experience these conditions. Have a great weekend wherever you may be. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -8℃, 30cm of crystal snow and calm morning. Moiwa 800m: -12℃, mild wind, 20cm of new snow and no development of snowdrifts. Mikaeri 740m: -10.8℃, Southerly0.8m/s, 30cm snowfall. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, NW8m/s, 20cm snowfall. Hirafu 1000m: -12℃, 15cm snowfall, no development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW14m/s, Kamui cape W10m/s, 1015hPa, 1.1m waves. The isobars are spaced out and the weather is calm. A NW wind is predicted to pick up in higher elevation. The overall snowdrift development is minimal and the mountain is blanketed with 20-30cm of fresh snow. Jan 15th layer would become a notable layer in the future snowpack. Layer observations and snowdrifts development are key features for avalanche prediction. Avalanches in Niseko are typically triggered by collapse of developing snowdrifts, and become an incident when people are caught in it. Peak gates are scheduled to open. Ask the patrol’s feedback before stepping out. Gate 7 (A-sawa) & 9 (Waterfall) are also scheduled to open today. Beware not to fall into creeks. This information is released for the sake of all ski resort user’s safety in the out of bounds area. Carrying avalanche gear (beacon, shovel, probe) may not be compulsory, but is strongly recommended to do so. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Saturday 16th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 320cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village Top - 240cm Base - 140cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 200cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Saturday 16th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 501cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 36 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 196cm reported 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 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 23cm Snowfall at base this season 445cm Posted on Wednesday 13th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here And it most certainly is a very good morning with a lovely 23cm of fresh dry and light snowfall to report to you from here at base. That might be 30+cm higher up. Nice. And it is continuing to snow as well and coming down at quite the rate as well at the moment. The Niseko Grand Hirafu resort are now just 5cm off hitting an official upper mountain snow depth of 3m, not that official snow depths are quite as important as the fresh snow that we receive each day. If I were so inclined just around now would be around the time when I'd be bringing out the clichéd and cheesy adjectives to describe conditions! :) Yes, things are going very well indeed and the folk lining up for those first lifts of the day must be very excited about what's just ahead of them. Unfortunately, top lifts were affected by strong wind and poor visibility across the mountain from around mid-morning yesterday, but while it continues to snow and visibility will probably be limited up there this morning it seems that wind is not going to be a factor this morning. As we all know though, that can change quickly. Is that actually a break from snowfall I see on the forecast for around Sunday, and appropriately maybe a bit of sun? It might be (though it's probably back to snowfall from Monday). Until then we can expect further snow every day through until Saturday. I think we all love those beautiful clear sunny days and in a period like this we don't get that many here, so they are to be treasured. Having said that, it would almost be a shame for the consistent daily snowfall to take a break. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -9°, 20cm new crystal snowfall. Moiwa 800m: -12°, wind NW8m/s, 20cm new snowfall, cornice and snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -10.4°, wind SSE0.9m/s, 40cm new snowfall. Hirafu 1000m: -12°, light winds, 20cm new snowfall. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NW 16m/s,. Kamui Cape WSW 13m/s, 1010hPa, wave 2.1m. Currently the pressure gradient is shallow and with the approaching low pressure system crystal snow is falling. There has been minor cornice and snowdrift development and propagation from impact is not carrying a great distance. From observation and data analysis, general avalanche risk is low. All gates are expected to be open. Please follow the patrols instructions. Be careful of sudden changes in the weather. The Moiwa to Annupuri via Mikaeri Ridge trail is now completed. This route is managed and maintained and by The Niseko Avalanche Institute for the purpose of snow research, by the Institute, and where necessary to, aid in rescues. During these times the route will be closed to the public Please take care over estimating your speed and hitting trees. Snow conditions are fantastic, have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Wednesday 13th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 295cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 210cm Base - 120cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 180cm Base - 120cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Wednesday 13th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 445cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 33 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (26th and 28th December) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 140cm reported on 12 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 16cm Snowfall at base this season 592cm Posted on Wednesday 27th January 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning, and I have a decent amount of fresh snow to report this morning... a good 16cm of it observed by myself and the Avi report mentioning up to 30cm of fresh up there. Nice. And the regular snowfall should continue through at least into next week. This morning there's lots of cloud around but some blue sky as well. Perhaps snowfall arriving overnight tonight - just how it should be! Should be a good morning. --- Soon after my report went up yesterday, it seems that wind had it's own ideas and was causing problems with summit lifts. The top lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri were quite quickly put on hold due to wind and apparently poor visibility; to be joined by the Niseko Gondola early afternoon and then the top Niseko Hanazono lift mid afternoon. Oh dear, so much for all being open! Sorry about that - all was looking 'normal' with the information I had available when I was preparing the report. As the Avalanche Report noted so well in the same report, 'be aware of a sudden change in the weather and bad visibility'. It can and does happen. --- It is interesting to see the large messages that are popping up on the Niseko United website and in other places at the moment. It seems that the resorts need to remind some people that season passes are not transferable and that they'll be doing more checks on them from now on - and cancelling any passes that are being used by anyone other than the original owner. Obviously there must have been more than a few instances of people passing around season passes. They have every right to not be happy if people are doing that - it's pretty clear that the passes are not transferable. Anyway, I can't remember seeing such a prominent message like that before so it looks like they are now taking action on it. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -4°C, 20cm new snow, minor snowdrift development, stormy. Moiwa 800m: -6°C, NW10m/s, 30cm new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: NNW10m/s, 30cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -8°C, W15m/s, 30cm new snow, poor visibility, snow drift development. Hirafu ridge line -8°C, blizzard conditions, 30cm new snow, snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NNW12m/s. Kamui Cape W9m/s, 1016hPa, wave 1.3m. Maritime and mountain data suggests the wind below 1000m is starting to drop, however above 1200m blizzard conditions will persist. From observation, around 800m western aspect knolls , 60cm new slabs have grown which will easily fracture from skier stimulation this morning. Peak gates opening times yet to be decided. Please listen to the patrols decisions. Do not ignore the rules and duck the ropes to go out of bounds. Most avalanches occur during and just after snowstorms. The newly developed slabs are unstable and will fracture easily. The frost layer formed from Jan 26 low pressure snowfall will become a weak layer in the future snowpack. Snow conditions change daily, today's avalanche conditions are higher than yesterday. Cautious behavior is prudent. Is your beacon turned on? Snow in the trees is reset and in great condition. --- Official resort snow depths as of Wednesday 27th January 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 320cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 270cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 260cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Wednesday 27th January 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 592cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 43 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 287cm reported on 22 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com