Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 958cm Posted on Friday 14th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's Friday morning and I have good news - snowfall to report! Yes, it's back to snow. Actually, it was back to the snow during the day yesterday... It's not knee deep alas, but 10cm or so here in the village area and as you can see below from the Avalanche Report today 20cm being reported from the mountain there. Yey, as they say. We are told not to expect much snow today - if any, the light snow seems to have eased off now and there's more and more blue sky appearing now - but snow is forecast for the over the weekend and into early next week. Some forecasts say it'll be tomorrow and some say Sunday. It is currently -6 degrees here in Hirafu and while it should get very cold overnight tonight, tomorrow is expected to be somewhat milder than today with highs closing in on freezing point. Especially if we end up with the sun that some forecasts tell us might happen. So kind of a mixed outlook really and difficult to read. I'll tell you exactly what is happening tomorrow morning... tomorrow morning. In the meantime, I must get out and enjoy that new fresh layer we have. Looks like lots of people have the same idea! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 20cm in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -12C, Wind NW12m/s, 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -15C, wind NW15m/s, 20cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, light winds, 10cm new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: -16.2C, wind WNW7.8m/s. Cape Benkei: NW15m/s, Cape Kamui: WSW10m/s, wave 1.4m, pressure 1026hPa. A high pressure system is bringing strong westerly winds into the area, this has caused movement of snow and snowdrift development on leeward slopes . On steep slopes and knolls above 1000m the avalanche risk is higher. The snow in forest although not deep, is reset and should be good. Snow flurries and gusting winds are expected to continue today. Avoid riding steep slopes(>40deg) above 1000m as there is possibility of up to 50cm fracture and avalanche to occur. Opening of peak gates yet to be decided. Please respect the patrols decision. Newly formed snowdrifts are very weak and prone to collapse easily, causing surface avalanches. In the Niseko area, once winds reach 18m/s the avalanche risk rises dramatically. Accidents can be avoided by recognising the changing conditions and taking appropriate actions. A slope that was save yesterday may not be today. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 310cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 14th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 958cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 70 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 99cm 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 5cm Snowfall at base this season 948cm Posted on Wednesday 12th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I'm pleased to be able to report 5cm of fresh snow this morning. Even with the chance of there being a bit more than that higher up (though not at 1150m according to the Avalanche Report this morning), it's not enough to refresh the mountain after the run of days we have had without any new snow - but it's definitely better than 0cm! We have clear blue skies over the Niseko region, the sun is out, it's calm and it's keeping cold. Actually I am seeing that it apparently dipped down to minus 16 degrees overnight in Kutchan. Currently it is around -11 degrees. There's not much else for me to report this morning. Weekly forecast is still not looking like there's any major snow on the into next week. We might have to make do with smaller top-ups like the overnight one we got. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 5cm new snow crystals in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -13C, 5cm new snow, light winds. Annupuri 1150m: -12C, wind W7m/s, 5cm new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: -14.2, SW0.3m/s Cape Benkei: SW3m/s, Cape Kamui: SW9m/s, wave 1.2m, pressure 1027hPa. Isobars are spaced widely apart over Niseko and high pressure system is bringing calm weather at the sea and mountains. 5cm of light snow crystals fell overnight. There is high probability of shallow surface avalanches on steep south facing slopes, general avalanche risk is low though. Peak gates are expected to open this morning. Please listen to the patrols advice before passing through the gates. Lately there has been increasing numbers of people ducking ropes and claiming no knowledge of Niseko Rules. Accommodation providers, guides, instructors and everybody involved in snow tourism have a duty to pass on the correct information about Niseko Rules. The rules are there to maintain a minimum safety level and protect our freedom to ride out of bounds. Beware there are many dangers on the mountain . --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 375cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 305cm Base - 220cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 12th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 948cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 69 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 89cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 986cm Posted on Tuesday 18th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's a similar story of strong winds this morning in Niseko. I don't have the updates in yet but I would expect similarly disrupted lift services on the mountain today, with the top lifts probably not moving. And like yesterday, very likely some long queues forming for the popular lifts and areas that remain open - perhaps another day to try out some of the less busy areas? About 10-15cm of snow outside my place this morning, with the report below recording 30cm in places. Wind has been blowing it all about. It's cloudy at the moment and is that even some sunlight trying to bust through the cloud in places (?), but snow is likely to continue on and off for the day says the forecast. It should keep cold, with similar conditions expected tomorrow. Less wind please, if possible. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, 30cm new snow in the last 12hrs, snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -9C, wind and snow from West, major snowdrift development. Annupuri 1000m: -9C, wind W15m/s, heavy snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -8C, snowdrift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -13.3C, wind NW16.8m/s. Cape Benkei: N17m/s, Cape Kamui: NNE8m/s, wave 4.0m, pressure 1014hPa. We are continuing to be effected by winter weather pattern bringing blizzard conditions here and at the sea with rapid snowdrift development all over the mountain. The avalanche risk is HIGH on steep slopes regardless of elevation or orientation. Beware snowdrifts have hidden cracks and newly formed cornices are unstable. All peak gates will be closed, please follow the patrols advice. The snow in the trees is heavy and deep today due to the high winds. Take care not to get stuck in the bottom of a gully or fall in deep snow and suffocate. Best not to venture too far today. Do not duck ropes to ride fresh lines. From snowpack analysis there is high possibility that strictly off limits area HarunoTaki will have a large scale avalanche. Snow conditions change everyday. After the storm breaks the snowpack will stabilise over time. Avalanches are a natural phenomenon and are only an accident if people are involved. Dont overestimate your knowledge and equipment. Have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 180cm Niseko Village: Top - 360cm Base - 215cm Annupuri: Top - 310cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Tuesday 18th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 986cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 74 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 127cm 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 5cm Snowfall at base this season 976cm Posted on Monday 17th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Lots of wind about at the moment - following on from yesterday, it's going to be another windy day here today. Early on before the lifts get moving here's the lifts that we are hearing will not be operating - as always subject to change with conditions of course: Hirafu: Ace 3 and 4, King 3 and 4; Hanazono 2 and 3 Annupuri: Gondola, Jumbo 3 and 4 Niseko Village: Gondola and Wonderland About 5cm of fresh snowfall to report this morning. The wind means that it's more and less in places, lots of windblown snow around this morning. The Avalanche Report says up to 20cm. The snow clouds are going to be staying over the region for the next few days, so fingers crossed we should be getting good topups. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, 20cm crushed snow crystals in the last 12hrs, snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -8C, wind N15m/s, major development of hard snowdrift, easily fractured. Annupuri 1150m: wind N20m/s, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -8C, blizzard conditions, snowdrift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -11.6C, wind N17.4m/s. Cape Benkei: N14m/s, Cape Kamui: NNE13m/s, wave 3.6m, pressure 1015hPa. Currently we are experiencing winter weather pattern bringing intermittent wind and snow from the north. There has been major snowdrift development above 800m. From observation and data the avalanche risk is HIGH. The wind has formed hard slabs that are not bonded well to the Feb 13-15th layer. Expect these to easily fracture to a depth up to 120cm. Slab growth between 3am and morning was 25cm, a small scale surface avalanche will easily occur. Take note, at around 1000m leeward slopes, a small avalanche is likely to trigger a large scale avalanche. The storm has hidden cracks and because of that they are even more dangerous today. Peak gates will be closed today, please follow the patrols directions. Do not duck ropes to get fresh snow. Do not enter restricted areas. The snow in the trees is good . Take care falling into cracks, hitting trees. The snow changes everyday. Be safe. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 180cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 210cm Annupuri: Top - 315cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 17th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 976cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 73 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 117cm 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 2cm Snowfall at base this season 1147cm Posted on Wednesday 19th March 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Yesterday I said in the report that we were expecting rain/sleet later in the day. We got that, and more. Changeable conditions with heavy rain, sleet and snow and some strong winds added in for good measure. So no, not the best day of the season! This morning there's a few cm of rather heavy and wet snow. A cloudy start to the day with some breaks in the cloud and blue sky in places, and a temperature of 1 degree as I write this, so not as mild as it was yesterday morning. There's still a wind about but doesn't seem to be affecting lift operations though it does look like a few lifts at Grand Hirafu are a bit delayed due to some kind of maintenance. Doesn't look like there's any significant snowfall on the forecasts, just a bit here and there perhaps - later on tomorrow and Saturday. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 5cm of wet snow in 12 hours and 5cm of crystal snow since dawn, development of snowdrifts. Moiwa peak: n/a. Annupuri 1150m: mild wind, -9C, development of unstable snowdrifts, snowpack 340cm. Hirafu 1000m: calm, -7C. Peak 1308m: no data, N23.3m/s at 11pm, -9.2C. Coastal data: no data available. Snow and wind stayed strong overnight due to strong airflow from the approaching High pressure system to the eastbound Low. Snowdrifts have developed drastically in lee-slopes and the avalanche risk is high. Heavily developed snowdrifts are extremely unstable during and immediately after storms. They collapse irrelevantly to layer compositions and can cause larger surface slab slides. The wind has calmed down as the isobars started to space out, however the snowpack stabilization will be delayed notably above 1000m. Gates 2 & 3 will be closed and others are yet to be determined. Please respect the ski patrol’s decisions. The snow in the trees has been mostly reset and good snow can be found. The avalanche hazard in surrounding mountains varies from areas, but one general rule is that the stabilization is slower in higher altitude. Conditions should be very unstable in Mt Yotei Makkari face’s “Terrace valley” above 1200m. Hardpack patches are present in the morning. Beware of falling, slipdrops, cracks and hitting trees. Prudence is key to avoid accidents. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 395cm Base - 185cm Niseko Village: Top - 390cm Base - 190cm Annupuri: Top - 380cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 19th March 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1147cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 94 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 178cm reported on 20 days March 2014 snowfall 110cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 1144cm Posted on Sunday 16th March 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another few cm of snow this morning on the ground here in Hirafu - so hopefully/probably more than that on the mountain - and it is a fairly mild morning with temps just under zero. Resorts are reporting poor visibility early on with top lifts at Hirafu, Annupuri and Village all on hold as of 8:30am. As per forecast, cloud with light snow at times is what we seem to have today. A few people have asked us where the weather forecasts are.... if you look on the right side of this page (or indeed any of our Now reports), you will see a list of 'Nearby snow resorts'. Click on the resort you are interested in to be taken to the resort info on SnowJapan. At the top of that page you will see a large blue tab labelled 'Weather info'. That's where you will find the weather/snow forecasts - and they are updated throughout the year. You may also find some stuff you didn't know about on the site, so please do go over and take a look. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -3C, 3cm of low-pressure snowfall. Moiwa peak: n/a. Annupuri 1150m: mild wind, -7C, thick fog, poor visibility, 3cm of fresh, snowpack 340cm. Hirafu 1000m: mild wind, -7C, light snowfall. Peak 1308m: S9.7m/s, -8.2C. Coastal data: cape Benkei SSE5m/s, cape Kamui ENE2m/s, 0.7m waves, 1013hPa. A small Low is quickly passing over southern Hokkaido. Typical small crystal snow has started to fall since 2am. This type of snow is loose and slides easily whether in steeps or trees. It is also likely to form a weak layer under future snowdrift slabs that could trigger avalanches with unclear crown. Beware of the coming snowfall transition. The snow condition is actually not too bad as the temperature gradient remained small. Peak gates will open from the morning. Listen to the ski patrol’s instructions, be geared up and step out of the gates. The visibility will be bad in the morning. The season is slowly shifting to spring, but temperature is still low. Beware of sudden weather changes and falling into cracks. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 390cm Base - 200cm Annupuri: Top - 395cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Sunday 16th March 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1144cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 92 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 178cm reported on 20 days March 2014 snowfall 107cm 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 1cm Snowfall at base this season 1148cm Posted on Friday 21st March 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A lovely day again yesterday, clouds overnight and just a thin layer of new snow this morning - about 1cm or so. Cloudy at the moment, with Mt Yotei hidden, and around 0 degrees now. This morning the main thing though is going to be... the wind. As I write this before 8:30am, here's what is affected: Niseko Annupuri - Annupuri Gondola Niseko Village - Niseko Gondola, Wonderland Chair Niseko Grand Hirafu - King 3, King 4 Hanazono - Hanazono 3 That may well of course change as conditions change, but we are expecting windy conditions for the day, hopefully less tomorrow. As I mentioned, today is a national holiday in Japan. --- Due to the 'Waya' event on Sunday, the King 1 and Hirafu Freeride Park at Niseko Grand Hirafu will be in use just for that and so not available to the public. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -1C,low-pressure snowfall 1cm in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: n/a. Annupuri 1150m: NE18m/s, -7C, 1000m snowpack 340cm. Hirafu 1000m: -6C, no snowfall, strong NE wind. Peak 1308m: NN 20.3m/s, -9.3C. Coastal data: cape Benkei E4m/s, cape Kamui 3m/s, 0.6m waves, 1002hPa. The low-pressure system moving NE at 35km/h along the pacific coast is generating strong NE wind (20+m/s above 1000m). Gates 2 & 3 will be closed. Others to be determined. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Spring avalanche hazard is rising in south facing off-limits areas, Haru no taki, Mizuno no sawa, Yu no sawa. Stay away of the valley bottoms, avalanche could strike from above you. Deep thick slides are also likely to occur in Kozan no sawa (backbowl), Osawa and Higashi-one. Beware of trees, cracks and giant snowballs under cornices. The conditions are bad, wet, catchy snow. Better not push too far today. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 390cm Base - 180cm Niseko Village: Top - 385cm Base - 185cm Annupuri: Top - 370cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 21st March 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1148cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 95 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 178cm reported on 20 days March 2014 snowfall 111cm 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 1cm Snowfall at base this season 1145cm Posted on Monday 17th March 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Less than 1cm of snowfall to report this morning, just a thin dusting really with the temperature around 0 degrees at the moment. There's still quite a bit of cloud around, but the sun is out as well and some blue sky. Once again we might get a bit of snow overnight into tomorrow and then tomorrow in the daytime there's a chance of some rain. Strong winds forecast for tomorrow as well - enough to mess about with lift schedules if it happens. For the moment though this morning good weather, the groomers should be good early on. Just hope it doesn't warm up too much... --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -2C, 0.5cm graupels in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: -5C, W5m/s and development of snowdrifts in Mikaeri area. Annupuri 1150m: snowpack 360cm. Hirafu 1000m: -5C, slight snowfall. Peak 1308m: NW13m/s, -8.3C. Coastal data: cape Benkei NNW10m/s, cape Kamui NNW6m/s, 0.7m, 1020hPa. Although the isobars are spaced out as a high-pressure system is traveling east, an intermittent NW wind is blowing, making snowdrifts develop in some areas. Newly formed snowdrifts in 1000m area are unstable and easily collapse. Temperature is relatively high and the snow in the trees will get better in the afternoon. Many dangers, other than avalanches, exist in the backcountry. Beware of loosing control, hitting trees, falling into cracks. Peak gates will open from the morning. Do not enter south facing strictly off-limits areas. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 395cm Base - 195cm Niseko Village: Top - 390cm Base - 200cm Annupuri: Top - 395cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 17th March 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1145cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 93 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (14th January) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 461cm reported on 29 days February 2014 snowfall 178cm reported on 20 days March 2014 snowfall 108cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 967cm Posted on Tuesday 24th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Fresh snow! I wouldn't usually get so excited around 10cm or so of snowfall that may not be quite classic Niseko quality, but with the lack of fresh over the last week it's just really great to see snow back with us... and hopefully will be the start of more to come. The folk lining up for first lifts tells me that others feel the same way. It's snowing pretty good heavily now actually. Please continue! The Report below mentioning 20cm of fresh over at Moiwa. :) It's a bit colder too as you might expect this morning. Come on snow, stay with us! If the forecast is correct it should be snowing through until tomorrow and then around Friday. Temperatures are remaining borderline mild, so fingers crossed things go the colder way. (It's the best way, easy). For now though I imagine fresh tracks will very quickly be made this morning so get up there earlier if you want to try and get some. --- Wind played around with lifts yesterday but some got moving. The Annupuri Gondola stopped shortly after 10am but by mid morning Hirafu was open apart from the top Ace and King Number 4 lifts, with the Ace and King 3 moving at reduced speed. The Hanazono top lift also got started just before 11am. Top lifts affected this morning again by wind, though less than yesterday. See below for details as at 8:30am. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Top Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 lifts on hold at the start of the day due to wind. Niseko Hanazono: All lifts look set to be operating as normal from the start this morning. Niseko Village: Top Wonderland Chair will be on hold Niseko Annupuri: Top Jumbo Number 4 lift on hold early on due to strong wind. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 10cm of new snowfall in last 12 hrs, wet broken crystals and hail. Moiwa 800m: SW5m/s, 20cm new snowfall and snowdrifts, -6C, bad visibility. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 300cm. Hirafu 1000m: 10cm new snow, -6C. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind SW speed not avail, -8.3℃. Cape Benkei: WNW14m/s, Cape Kamui: WSW16m/s, pressure 1005hPa, wave 1.8m. The powder came back! Strong SW wind and snowdrifts developing slowly above 800m. Knolls and steep slopes around 800m will easily fracture at Feb 21-22 layer. The depth is expected to be less than 30cm, however still dangerous. The snow in forest is good. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrols advice and be prepared before riding out of bounds. Always be aware on knoll and cornice slopes, ride one by one. The valley bottoms are the path of potential large scale avalanches, dont stop in them. Yesterday over 8 people entered strictly off limits area Yu no sawa. A lot of people work hard to protect your right to ride out of bounds in Niseko. Please dont disrespect them, follow the rules and help keep Niseko free. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 135cm Niseko Village: Top - 290cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Tuesday 24th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 967cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 67 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 161cm 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 5cm Snowfall at base this season 957cm Posted on Monday 16th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's not a whole lot of new snow to report this morning, I think 5cm is a fair number for round here at base but that wind we have been having has been blowing it all around and generally being really annoying. Grrrrr. Yesterday, the Ace Number 2 Center Four lift got moving just before 9am, but Swinging Monkey and Ace Number 3 didn't get moving at the beginning of the day and from about 10am Hanazono had all three of it's lifts closed. Looks like some disruption to lifts again this morning (noted below), but lets keep fingers crossed that the wind might calm later in the day today. The forecasts gives us a bit of hope for that. With avalanche risk high, it looks like most gates will be closed. It is cloudy just now - looks like it might be snowing up there - and quite mild with the temperature here around 0 degrees. Forecasts do indeed give us the chance of light snow during the day. OK, so from tomorrow things look set to calm down good and proper. In fact, from tomorrow right through until the weekend the forecast seems to be lots of sunny conditions, calm, relatively mild and no (or little) snowfall likely. Just as long as the snow is back soon, I think we can all enjoy some of that. Cameras at the ready! --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Ace Number 3 and 4, King Number 3 and 4, Swinging Monkey lifts on hold early on due to strong wind Niseko Hanazono: Top Hanazono Number 3 lift on hold early on due to strong wind Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland lift on hold early on due to strong wind Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola and top Jumbo 4 lift on hold early on due to strong wind --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -2C, 50cm snowdrift deposit in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NNW12m/s, -8C, large developent of dense snowdrifts. Annupuri 1000m: -7C, N15m/s with gusts, large development of snowdrifts and cornices, snowpack 320cm. Hirafu 1000m: N15m/s, -7C, large development of snowdrifts in some areas. Benkei cape NNE9m/s, Kamui cape E5m/s, 1013hPa, 3.2m waves. Snowdrifts and cornices have largely developed overnight. New slabs thickness have exceeded 150cm in 800m leeward knolls and are extremely unstable, likely to widely slide with a 60cm crown. The avalanche risk in Niseko and the surrounding peaks is extremely high, most gates will be kept closed today. Better not fully rely on quick and easy pit-checks for decision making, a slab that may look stable could let go and cause a fatal slide. Many cases of backcountry touring accidents in surrounding peaks are being reported. It’s a bit of a shame to get injured while playing in the mountains. Never overestimate your knowledge/skills or underestimate the hazards of winter mountains. We only hope that no Niseko residents/visitors is involved in a fatal accident. Have a safe day. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 16th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 957cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 66 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 151cm 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 957cm Posted on Friday 20th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Hirafu. A mix of weather going on this morning. Cloud, trying to snow (and actually snowing lightly higher up I am told), but the sun managing to appear as well in places. Over towards Mt Yotei, that mountain is looking rather handsome as well (but doesn't it always). I reckon it's going to clear up and be blue skies and sunny by late morning. Light wind here at base but resorts are reporting more up there at upper elevations. All resorts opening as normal this morning and it would appear the gates will be open too. Have fun and take care. When's our fresh snow coming!? Mild conditions probably lasting over the weekend, there may even be some rain on Sunday, but we should see snow back falling from the skies and a dip in temperatures again early week. Phew! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, no new snowfall. Moiwa 800m: N8m/s, -8C, trace new snow. Hirafu 1000m: snowpack 320cm, NNW10m/s, -8C, trace new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: N15.1m/s, -9.6C. Cape Benkei: E6m/s, Cape Kamui: E2m/s, 1022hPa, wave 1.3m. At upper elevations the wind has picked up and there has been some snowdrift development above 800m. The 20th Feb layer will be notable in the future snowpack. The general avalanche risk is low. All gates are expected to be open. During an average winter full depth avalanches are expected in Osawa, Kozan no sawa during early April, however due to this year's warm winter there is the possibility of them earlier – from late February to early March. Cracks and other evidence of the snowpack shifting are indications of possible deep avalanches. These avalanches release without warning from the heavily loaded ridge lines are devastating to the forest and anyone caught below. Steep south facing valleys around 1100m are the usual dangers zones , but these avalanches are difficult to predict. They can happen at an time of day, regardless of temperature and often occur with no visible signs such as cracks. We need to be especially careful due to the unusual snow fall pattern this year. This type of avalanche is like an angry giant smashing everything in its path. Always be aware, avoid the valley bottoms and don’t put yourselves in dangerous place. Please listen to the patrols advice before passing through the gates. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 20th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 957cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 66 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 151cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 952cm Posted on Sunday 15th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Hirafu and this morning I have another 15cm of new snow to report here at base. Unfortunately, the north westerly wind is again causing headaches with top lifts closed along with the Gondolas at Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village. Seems the Ace Number 2 Center Four lift might be a bit late opening as well due to some checking or maintenance going on there. With a fair few good folk lined up waiting, hoping that gets moving quickly. Snow showers possible on and off today and into tomorrow, though for the moment there's more and more blue sky appearing... it feels more like it will clear up than snow. There are clearer conditions and a break from snowfall forecast during this coming week. Might get the sunshine and blue skies thing going on by Tuesday. Should be much calmer too. Enjoy the day and I'll see you tomorrow. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, 15cm snowfall 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NW8m/s, snowfall with 50cm snowdrift development. Annupuri 1000m snowpack 310cm. Hirafu 1000m: heavy wind with packed snow -10C. Peak 1308m: NNW18.6m/s, -11.5C. Benkei cape NNE 13m/s, Kamui cape N11m/s, 1009hPa, 2.4m waves. Strong northerly wind with intermittent gusts is blowing in high altitude. Snowdrifts are slowly developing in all areas. The cornices are growing big and are unstable. The avalanche risk is high in all out of bounds areas; Moiwa bowl, Backbowl, Osawa and Higashi-One. Avalanche accidents are most likely to occur in leeward slopes with heavy snowdrifts deposit during storms. Do not stimulate knolls, stay away from valley bottoms and ride down one by one. Peak gates will be kept closed. Do not duck ropes. One track left under a rope would lead many others to do the same and raise the chances of accidents to happen. Please respect the Niseko Rules. The snow in the treeruns is in excellent condition. The storm will settle down soon. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 410cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 190cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 340cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Sunday 15th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 952cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 65 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 146cm 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