Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 1141cm Weather overview Fine Wind Light Temperature -5C base / -9C top Visibility Very good Posted at 9:10am on Friday 15th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Well, well. We sure got some snowfall yesterday. I would say up to 25cm or so in the village area since my last report and as you can see the Avalanche report below is reporting 35cm. Sounds good to me. Let's just call it 'lots' shall we? What's more, the sun is out! Yes, the clouds have done their thing and moved (for the most part) leaving us with the sun shining down and increasingly lovely weather conditions early this morning. It may not last the day and we expect some more snowfall overnight, but for now it's a great morning in Niseko. Wind is behaving too. So there's really not much to report this morning - just nice weather and fantastic conditions. I hope you can enjoy it, I'm off out there now. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -14C, calm morning, 35cm of fresh snow until late night. Moiwa 800m: -14C, W10m/s, moderate development of snowdrift. Annupuri peak: NW10m/s, -13.4C. Coastal data: NW9m/s, 1.1m waves, 1015hPa. A moderate westerly wind is blowing in a high-pressure band, developing snowdrifts in areas above treeline. Graupels and grainy snow is predominant in the slabs due to the passing cold-front influence and the sinter-stabilization is delayed. The avalanche risk is HIGH in leeward steep slopes around 1000m in Osawa cornice slopes, west-ridge SE facing slopes, backbowl walls and deeper Higashione. It is still dangerous to go straight to those slopes first thing in the morning. Do not traverse (ski/ride across) steep slopes today, it can easily trigger a slide. Many people may be underneath you, riding at the bottom. Peak gates are scheduled t open at 10am. Be prudent. Many hazards resides in the backcountry. Better not overestimate your experience and skills and think safety first. Beware of sudden weather changes. The snow in the trees is excellent. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Friday 15th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1141cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 75 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 162cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 1248cm Weather overview Cloud Wind Varied Temperature -7C base / -14C top Visibility Variable Posted at 8:30am on Saturday 23rd February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning and this morning I have another 10-15cm of snowfall to report from Hirafu. Some good consistent snowfall over the last week, which is great of course. We probably have a few more days of similar conditions before clearer conditions around Tuesday and the last few days of the month. It's not snowing right now as I write this but snow showers possible throughout the day. Some fairly strong winds affecting the Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 top lifts on Niseko Grand Hirafu and the top lift at Niseko Hanazono, otherwise normal operations as planned by the looks of things. From a look at the Avalance Info below it looks like some of the gates will be closed again this morning. Not much else to report this morning, it'll be another busy one out there. Hope you can enjoy it. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -10C, 15cm of broken particles snow. Moiwa 800m: storng westerly storm and development of snowdrifts. Annupuri peak: ENE17m/s, -16C. Coastal data: NW17m/s, 1.5m waves and 1011hPa. Typical winter pressure pattern continues and a snowstorm picked up from late night. Development of snowdrifts is drastic and the avalanche risk will remain high during the morning. Potentially hazardous slopes are knoll terrain in 800m SE facing slopes where slabs of up to 80cm thickness could slide. Gates 2, 3 and 6 will be kept closed. The closing of gates is based on objective hazard evaluation and is determined for the sake of ALL resort users. It is a message for everyone to tell that the area beyond should not be touched. Hiking up from the end of the rope just below gate 6, or traversing all the way to Higashione from gate 5 will only lead many people to do the same and increase the chances of accidents to happen. If an avalanche happens in Moiwa/Mikaeri bowl, it is highly likely to be deeply buried at the bottom of the valley. Higashione has large vertical difference and could lead big consequences. These are the reason for having the gates closed yesterday and today. Selfish interpretation of the rules is neglecting the trust between the users and the resorts and will only lead to a stronger regulation. We strongly demand everyone to respect the Rules if we want to keep Niseko a free & safe place to ride/ski. Beware of cracks and have a nice day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Saturday 23rd February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1248cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 83 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 269cm 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 Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 1253cm Weather overview Cloud, light snow at times Wind Varied Temperature -10C base / -14C top Visibility Fair Posted at 8:55am on Sunday 24th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's a cold morning here with the temperature at around -10C degrees. We have just over 5cm or so of fresh snowfall to add to our numbers and keep the runs fresh. Perhaps not enough to fill in all of the tracks made in the busy day that was yesterday of course, but better than none. It's cloud and light snow this morning again and those winds are messing with lifts again on the mountain. Top lifts at all four resort areas are not moving at the moment. In addition, the Niseko Gondola at Niseko Village and the Annupuri Gondola are also closed. Most other lifts seem to be moving this morning but there's some winds of up to 20m/s up there. Latest forecasts show the snow easing off sometime tomorrow to be followed by some clearer skies and likely milder conditions from Tuesday. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -11C, 5cm of crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: moderate westerly wind and 5cm of new snow. Annupuri peak: NNW9.5m/s, 16.8C. Coastal data: NNE8m/s, 0.7m waves and 1010hPa. Annupuri 1000m snowpack: 375cm. A low-pressure band is approaching, mild wind and light development of snowdrifts. Avalanche risk is lowering. Peak gates are scheduled to open at 10am, however may close depending on the coming weather. The surface is difficult to see and cracks are opening everywhere; beware of falling into them. Avalanches occur when the conditions allow and are not necessarily dependent on the amount of snowfall. Avalanches are natural phenomena that only becomes a problem is a person is involved in it. A winter-mountain will never be 100% safe. According to the snowfall transition, observations and data evaluation, the slabs are stabilizing, however slides are still to be highly expected in slopes with cornices and knolls in Kozannosawa (Backbowl), Osawa (Annupuri bowl), Mikaeri area (Moiwa bowl) and Higashione. Better not stimulate suspicious slopes and/or stop at the bottom of the valleys. Ask the ski patrol for advice and use gates to step out of bounds. Be safe, enjoy and have a nice day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Sunday 24th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1253cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 84 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 274cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 1288cm Weather overview Cloud, light snow at times Wind Light Temperature -7C base / -12C top Visibility Generally OK Posted at 8:15am on Tuesday 26th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I have to file an early report this morning as Sapporo awaits. The city, not the beer! It is a calm start to the day here. The snow continued falling yesterday, getting heavier later on and in the end of we have another 20-25cm this morning here in the Hirafu village area, most of that by the end of the day yesterday and a bit more overnight. (The Avalanche report this morning is reporting 40cm in the last 24 hours). So a calm morning meaning we should all be open today. Mixed conditions with some light snow falling in areas, and a bit of sun to be seen in others. It could go either way. More of the same over the next few days, followed by a return to snow just before the weekend. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -9C, 5cm of snowfall in the past 12 hours, 40cm in 24H. Moiwa 800m: 40cm in 24H, development of snowdrifts, -13C. Annupuri peak: W10.2m/s, -15.4C. Coastal data: WNW11m/s, 0.9m waves, 1020hPa. Annupuri 1000m snowpack: 390cm. A high-pressure band is covering southern Hokkaido area and the mountain is finally calm. Total 40cm of snow fell yesterday. New soft slabs (snowdrifts), up to 100cm thickness, have developed in leeward slopes above 800m. The stabilization of snowdrifts (snow slabs formed by wind-drifted snow) is delayed in areas above 1100m and the cornices are growing big. Gate 2 & 3 are scheduled to open at 10:30am. Beware! Avalanche hazard remains high in open steep slopes with large vertical drop; namely the Backbowl sidewalls and other similar condition slopes. These slopes should remain untouched today. DO NOT traverse across or wait at the bottom of those slopes. Avalanche strikes you from behind. The snow in the tree is stable and in very good condition. Better not overestimate your gears and skills. Think safety first. Rider/skier's wisdom is always being tested in the out of bounds area. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Tuesday 26th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1288cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 86 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 309cm 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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 1290cm Weather overview Cloud Wind Light Temperature -2C base / -8C top Visibility Generally fine Posted at 8:47am on Wednesday 27th February 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Sapporo was fun. It's a great city and a visit is highly recommended. And yes, the beer of the same name is fine too. Enough of that. Back to Niseko! Just a few cm of snow to report this morning since yesterday and it's a mild morning. Fairly calm too here where I am in Hirafu, but I can see that the flags waving about excitedly over at Hanazono on the webcam. Even so, they are reporting wind speed of up to 5m/s, and all resorts on the mountain are preparing to be fully open as normal, so wind doesn't seem to be an issue today. It's cloudy at the moment with the chance of light snow showers during the day, but certainly nothing major. Similar weather conditions are likely tomorrow, maybe with some stronger winds. Today, the JMA snow fall number for Kutchan Town stands at 216cm which is exactly the same as was recorded in the month of Febraury 2012. Another 20cm and we'll 'beat' the numbers for Febraury over the last 7 seasons. Yes, they are only numbers, but when it comes to amounts of snow we always want bigger ones. Doesn't look like we'll manage that in the end but a respectable number anyway for sure. Next up will be March which sometimes throws us some delights and surprises. The forecast for the first days of March is actually looking very positive with the potential for heavy snowfalls this Friday into Saturday and a return to more suitably colder conditions on the mountain late weekend. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -6C, 5cm of snowfall in the past 12 hours, calm morning. Moiwa 800m: SW5m/s, no development of snowdrifts, -10C. Annupuri peak: SW7m/s, -11.1C. Coastal data: S4m/s, 0.8m waves and 1015hPa. According to all data and observations, there are no snowdrift developments and the snowpack is stable. The general avalanche hazard is low. This morning's snowfall is typical of pre-low pressure system and will potentially become a trigger layer in the future snowpack. Deeper layers are stable, however caution is always required in 1200m area knolls and 40°slopes under cornices. It is strongly discouraged to stimulate those kinds of slopes during high winter season. Traversing under cornices and knolls is a very bad idea. Peak gates are scheduled to open at 9:30. Listen to the ski patrol’s instructions when stepping out of bounds. Do not duck ropes/nets. Skiing under Hanazono 3 lift is prohibited. Do not ignore the announcements. The mountain is mostly tracked, but the snow is still in good condition. Do not overestimate gears and skills. Snow & wind is forecasted to pick up in the afternoon, visibility will turn bad, beware of cracks. Think safe, have fun and have a nice day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Wednesday 27th February 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1290cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 87 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 311cm reported on 23 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 1310cm Weather overview Cloud and light snow easing off Wind Light Temperature -2C base / -5C top Visibility Improving Posted at 9:39am on Saturday 2nd March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another mild morning here in Niseko, though I have around 10cm of snowfall to report. Perhaps not the prime light powder that Niseko is famous for, but new snow all the same. I'll take it! I see that 15cm of snow is being reported from over in the Moiwa area... Snow forecast for the day along with, yes you've guessed it, moderate to strong winds. Top lifts at all of the resorts on the mountain are not operating this morning but it just seems to be affecting top areas. Oh, and the Niseko Gondola at Niseko Village. I remember saying it before but there sure seems to have been a relatively large number of wind-affected days this season. Visibility has been pretty poor this morning on mountain, as noted in the avalanche report, but as I am writing this report there's some shadows being case on parts of the mountain as sun breaks through. There's even some small patches of blue sky on show here and there. Just mostly cloudy here as I am writing this. Could it be clearing up? In the coming week we can expect a run of calmer days and perhaps some sunshine. If you take a look back at our Niseko Now report archives you'll get an idea of how much snowfall there has been in March and beyond from previous seasons. The Kutchan town snow fall data from the Japan Meteorological Agency for the month of February 2013 was 228cm, so a slight increase on the previous year and the most since 2009. Last season March was relatively dry with just 79cm, compared with over 2m of snow in the previous two seasons. So March can bring surprises and some excellent conditions. Here's to March 2013 being one of those. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -3C, 15cm of new snow. Moiwa 800m: -5C, 15cm new snow, significant snowdrift development, Annupuri peak: wind SE3.5m/s, -8.9C. Coastal data: wind W15m/s, 0.9m waves, pressure 981hPa. Snowdrifts have rapidly developed above 800m, in strong SE wind, with the passing of the low pressure system yesterday. Snowfall has been warm, wet, broken particles. Below 800m lift lines and inbound steep slopes are also unstable. Today, a cold westerly wind is expected to intensify, followed by rapid snowdrift development. Avalanche risk is VERY HIGH. All gates will be closed for the safety of all resort users. Do not enter the Higashione area, Kagami Numa area or Osawa cornice slopes. Visibility is very bad. Please be aware of cracks and other hazards. The snow conditions within the resorts is good. Do not overestimate your own skills or equipment performance. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Saturday 2nd March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1310cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 90 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 15cm reported on 2 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 1325cm Weather overview Cloud with patches of blue Wind Light Temperature -5C base / -10C top Visibility Decent Posted at 9:39am on Sunday 3rd March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Yesterday was a bit of a wild ride, as it was in many other regions of Japan I hear. The Shin Chitose airport and gateway to Hokkaido near Sapporo was closed for a while, messing with the travel plans of more than a few people. It sure has been a dramatic start to March. So after a day of strong winds and disruption, this morning things have calmed down. There's has been probably 10-20cm of snow since yesterday, but the storm was blowing it all about and so it's one of those days when pinning down a number is particularly difficult. It's actually colder than it was yesterday morning according to the thermometer and about -4C as I write this. Lots of cloud around still, but I can also see some blue sky above the mountain and the sun is out here in Hanazono where I'm writing this mornings report from. Light snow showers still on the forecast for today but it feels like it may well clear up. Followed by more clearer skies this week over Niseko, sun and warmer conditions as the week progresses. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -4C, 20cm of broken snow crystals in the last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: -5C, wind NW5m/s, snowdrift development. Coastal data: wind NNW12m/s, 3.5m waves, pressure 1009hPa. Annupuri peak: weather station damaged. Strong wind and snow from yesterday morning until midnight. Wind driven snow caused rapid snowdrift development. Snow deposited previous to low pressure system remains a weak layer. All peak gates will be closed today for the safety of all resort users. Most avalanche accidents during or just after a storm, please take care. According to data and observation the snowpack is starting to stabilise, however open steep slopes and knolls should be avoided. Do not let poor judgement or experience get you into a dangerous situation which may cause an accident. Niseko Rules have been developed over many years, through many bitter experiences, by the local mountain community to protect all mountain users. Individuals who continually disrespect or disregard Niseko Rules have no right to live in this community. Do not duck ropes. Do not enter strictly off limits areas. Be careful of cracks. The snow is heavy but good in the trees. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Sunday 3rd March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1325cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 91 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 30cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 1345cm Weather overview Cloud, light snow Wind Light Temperature -4C base / -8C top Visibility Decent Posted at 8:56am on Tuesday 5th March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Well, can't say I was totally expecting this but we can again add another 10cm or so of fresh snow this morning in Hirafu village area and a temperature of -3C at the moment. There'll be more snow on them there mountains, so perhaps some nice deep places to be hunted down. Resorts are reporting lower base temperatures of around -3 degrees and upper mountain areas at around -9 degrees as of 8am this morning. Cloudy with light snow showers early on. What's more, there is hardly any wind at all this morning. Yes, it's all calm here. Niseko Annupuri are even reporting wind speeds mountain-wide of 0m/s! The top lifts should be getting a good work out today and peak gates are scheduled to be open as of 10am. The forecast seems to be promising more goodies for us than it seemed to be yesterday which is encouraging. Though we can expect tomorrow and Thursday to be milder before temperatures drop once again around Friday. Winter doesn't seem to want to make way for full on spring just quite yet. And you'll hear no complaints from most people here, I'm sure. Take care and have fun. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -5C, calm, 10cm of new snow. Annupuri peak: -11.6C. Coastal data: wind N3m/s, 0.7m waves, pressure 1014hPa. At 1500m the wind is expected to be W10m/s by 12pm. Currently Annupuri snow depth is 400cm at 1000m elevation. There has been no significant snowdrift development overnight and the overall avalanche risk is low. Peak gates are expected to open at 10am. Please listen to the ski patrol's advice before leaving the ski area. Outside the gates is outside the ski area. Generally the snowpack is stable, however there is still a possibility of slabs fracturing in some areas. Please use caution on cornice slopes, knolls and open steep slopes. Ski down one by one and avoid riding in the valley bottom. The new snow is fantastic powder and easy to ski. Please be careful going fast and hitting a tree or falling into cracks. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Tuesday 5th March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1345cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 93 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 50cm reported on 5 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 1335cm Weather overview Fine with some cloud Wind Light Temperature -7C base / -12C top Visibility Good Posted at 8:53am on Monday 4th March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It may be March but I have another 10cm of snow to report from Hirafu this morning... Niseko isn't forgetting to be consistent, for now anyway. There's quite a bit of cloud around but it's a fine morning and calm too. Annupuri have been reporting some stronger winds up top, but over here in Hirafu all seems fairly calm - the flags are taking a rest from being blown about, the sun is out. Yes, a nice morning. Feels like the cloud that is remaining might well clear up. Hardly any snow on the forecast in the coming week - more sun and/or cloud - with a pattern of temperatures gradually warming up as the week goes on. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -10C, 5cm of new snow. Weather sunny and calm. Moiwa 800m: -12C, 10cm new snow, minimal snowdrift development. Wind calm. Coastal data: wind SSE14/s, 0.5m waves, pressure 1016hPa. Annupuri peak: -14.5C. Wind is expected to pick up by 12pm, WSW 10m/s at 1500m. All peak gates are expected to open at 10am. Do not traverse under cornices or stimulate knolls. On slopes above 1100m there is possibility of fracture from March 1st layer. Have you switched your beacon on? Are you carrying shovel? Probe? Headlamp? If not, avoid the valley bottoms. It is recommended you ski in the trees. The snow is in great condition. Be careful of cracks and avoid hitting trees. Have a safe day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Monday 4th March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1335cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 92 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 40cm reported on 4 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1345cm Weather overview Cloud Wind Light Temperature -2C base / -6C top Visibility Fair Posted at 9:19am on Thursday 7th March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here No new snowfall to report since yesterday from the Niseko area. A lovely clear early morning here, but since then it has clouded over and it's becoming much greyer. Strong winds were expected again later today, but have been whipping up something more in the last hour or so. I can see the flags outside a restaurant nearby blowing about furiously right at the moment. Wind speeds up to 14m/s noted by the resorts and the top lifts at each resort area are on hold. I've said it before but strong winds have definitely been one of talking points of this season here in Niseko - apart from the often totally awesome snow conditions of course. Resorts are posting temperatures of around -2C around base, but here in the Hirafu village area it is right now around +1C. It might well get as warm as around +5C today and there's a good chance there will be..... rain. Yes, the R word. There's good news though as well. From tomorrow looks like we should see temperatures drop once again and be on the receiving end of another fresh delivery of snow with hopefully more also over the weekend. Might even get a decent amount. Fingers crossed. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -6C, no new snowfall, clear weather. Moiwa 800m: no snowdrift development, -6C. Annupuri peak: -9.3C. Coastal data: wind SSE6m/s, 0.8m waves, pressure 1012hPa. At Annupuri peak the wind is expected to be W20m/s by 12pm. Currently Annupuri snow depth is 400cm at 1000m elevation. Peak gate opening times are yet to be determined due to a strong westerly wind above 1000m. There has been no new snowfall overnight, however yesterday's strong wind has created snowdrifts leeward of knolls above 800m elevation. These will easily collapse with slight stimulation, please be careful. Similar conditions have caused an accident in Moiwa bowl in the past. On steep wind slopes above 1000m a hard slab has been developing from strong wind. A fall could trigger a fracture, causing an avalanche, please take care. An avalanche will occur anytime if the conditions are right regardless of how much snowfall there has been. The mountain is currently changing from winter to spring conditions. Temperatures will rise with the approaching low pressure this afternoon, causing some melt. The snow in the trees has not been reset, but conditions are not bad. Ducking ropes to enter prohibited areas is forbidden in Niseko. Have a safe day. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Thursday 7th March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1345cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 93 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 50cm reported on 5 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1345cm Weather overview Cloud, light snow Wind Light Temperature 0C base / -3C top Visibility Decent Posted at 10:19am on Wednesday 6th March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I had fun out there yesterday and was a bit surprised to find some fairly deep untouched snow out in places. Was good. No fresh cm of snow to report to you this morning from Hirafu, though it has been snowing and a thin layer of snow on the car outside now. Visibility not as good this morning on mountain. It's quite a mild morning but temperatures remaining around the zero level at the moment. Poor visibility and conditions have the top lifts at Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village not moving early on, and it seems the Niseko Gondola has been operating at reduced speed. The King Number 4 only opened up a short while ago after a late start because of wind. Similar conditions are forecast for tomorrow. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -2C, no new snowfall, snow surface has melted and refrozen. Moiwa 800m: no new snowfall, -3C. Annupuri peak: -6.3C. Coastal data: wind SW4m/s, 0.4m waves, pressure 1006hPa. At 1000m the wind is expected to be SW15m/s by 12pm. Currently Annupuri snow depth is 400cm at 1000m elevation. The temperature has risen then cooled off again with the passing of low pressure system, which has caused the surface of the snow to melt and refreeze again. Below 800m a 2cm thick crust has formed. Today's layer will become a significant layer in the future snowpack regardless of altitude. General avalanche risk is low, however on SE faces around 1000m, below the ridge line, the March 1st layer (pre low pressure snowfall) persists as a potential weak layer. Also beware massive cornice chunks breaking off. The snow conditions are not good today. Below 800m the groomed runs are hard, in the trees is difficult to remain in control, be careful. Peak gates opening times yet to be determined. Please respect ski patrols decisions. The weather can change quickly. The snow surface is hard to see, beware cracks. Dont duck ropes to leave the resort. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Wednesday 6th March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1345cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 93 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 50cm reported on 5 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1345cm Weather overview Cloud, fine Wind Light Temperature 4C base / 0C top Visibility Fair Posted at 8:30am on Friday 8th March 2013 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another morning with no new snowfall to report, though the snow depth for Hirafu has risen by 10cm since yesterday. It did actually snow yesterday for a while after starting off raining. Impressive numbers for 8th March, 485cm up top there. A bit milder than this time yesterday actually. We're really feeling like spring right now both in weather and snow conditions, but are at the same time preparing for and rubbing our hands in anticipation of another blast of winter. Hopefully by tomorrow morning I will have some snow to report and it will be colder as a cold front moves in and some potentially heavy snow around Sunday. That would be great, obviously! For now, it's a fine morning. Fine but cloudy, sort of somewhere in between. All resort lifts set to be open as scheduled. Avalanche Information Niseko base 6am: -5C, no new snowfall, sunny, refrozen snow. Moiwa 800m: no new snowfall, no snowdrift development, -5C. Annupuri peak: -7.5C. Coastal data: wind calm, 1.2m waves, pressure 1002hPa. Annupuri snow depth 1000m elevation: 400cm. A warm front followed by cold air mass has formed a crust on snow surface below 500m, above 800m the surface has recrystallised which will become a significant layer in the future snowpack. The snow on the ridgelines is hard and there has been very little snowfall or snowdrift development. Take care on steep slopes, if you cause the crust to break away it will be like going for a magic carpet ride. In the afternoon as the temperature rises the risk of cornices breaking away increases, avoid traversing below cornices. Gates 2 and 3 are expected to open at 10.30am. Please follow the ski patrols advice. The mountain is not in good condition due to the change from winter to spring conditions. Beware not only of cracks, there are deep holes as well. The weather can change quickly, prudence and careful planning is required. Niseko Now 2012-2013 season Data as of Friday 8th March 2013 Total snowfall at base so far 1345cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 93 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (27th January) November 2012 snowfall 118cm reported on 11 days December 2012 snowfall 418cm reported on 27 days January 2013 snowfall 443cm reported on 26 days February 2013 snowfall 316cm reported on 24 days March 2013 snowfall 50cm reported on 5 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