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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 961cm Posted on Saturday 15th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a few cm to add this morning and it's an overcast morning here in Hirafu. Once again on the news we are hearing about heavy snow in Tokyo and large areas of that region of Japan, and them getting more than snowfall us. And once again, it feels odd. Things are looking more promising now, hopefully starting from later on today, with snow lined up well into the coming week. It should be keeping cold as well. At the moment it is -6 degrees here at base. Another busy weekend out there. Hope you can enjoy it. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 3cm in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -11C, minor snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -11C, wind SW5m/s, minor snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, trace new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: -9.2C, wind NE5.0m/s. Cape Benkei: S9m/s, Cape Kamui: E3m/s, wave 0.5m, pressure 1028hPa. Currently we are under influence of a high pressure system which is bringing light winds and a little snow. There has been only minor snowdrift development overnight and general avalanche risk is low. The cold clear weather on Feb 13 has produced a weak frost layer in the snowpack. The possibility of 50cm slab on northeast slopes around 1000m remains. Peak gates are expected to open this morning, please listen to the patrols advice before going through the gates. Skiing down in groups is dangerous, the cracks are hard to see from above, take care loosing control and hitting a tree. Dont stop in the bottom of a gully, that’s where an avalanche will run. Ducking ropes is strictly forbidden in Niseko. The groomers are in great condition. Have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 210cm Annupuri: Top - 315cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 15th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 961cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 71 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 102cm 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 971cm Posted on Sunday 16th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Crazy scenes continue down around Tokyo and surrounding prefectures in particular with some tales of epic snowfalls being recorded on the plains. It's not much use there is it?! Anyway as that system moves north, we are being hit with strong winds and noticeably warmer temperatures as well - it's not all that colder than freezing point here this morning, but hopefully will be getting colder. Oh yes, we do have about 10-15cm of fresh snow this morning, though I wouldn't rank it as classic Niseko snow, milder conditions explaining that. It's generally just cloudy at the moment. Stronger winds on the mountain are affecting the following lifts at the time of writing: Niseko Grand Hirafu: King 3 and King 4, Ace 4 lifts Annupuri: Jumbo 4 lift Niseko Village: Wonderland Chair and Niseko Gondola Very possibly that situation will change during the day. Snow showers are forecast to continue over the next few days and as I said hopefully along with colder conditions. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -3C, 20cm new snow in the last 12hrs, snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -6C, wind N15m/s, major snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -6C, wind N20m/s, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -5C, snowdrift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -8.8C, wind N13.8m/s. Cape Benkei: NNE6m/s, Cape Kamui: SSW2m/s, wave -calm, pressure 1015hPa. The newly formed snowdrifts are unstable and will fracture easily. From observation and snowfall data the avalanche risk is high. On steep open leeward faces a fast running surface slab avalanche, with a fracture up it 50cm, is likely to occur. Drifts formed from low pressure snowfall are not well bonded and will collapse easily. Be careful around cornices, knolls and steep slopes above 800m. Peak gates 2&3 will be closed today, Gate 6 yet to be decided. Please follow patrols advice. Accidents can be avoided if you understand the dangers of snowdrifts correctly. Many accidents happen during and just after bad weather and storms. Avalanches are a natural occurrence and only become an accident if people are involved. The snow in the trees is getting better. Have a safe day. Take care hitting trees and falling into cracks. --- 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 Sunday 16th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 971cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 72 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 112cm 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 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 1022cm Posted on Friday 21st February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I remember saying it would probably build up during the day in my report yesterday. Well, this morning I do have a very nice delivery of snow to report. Over 25cm here outside my place, and a quick glance at the Avalanche report below shows some bigger numbers still on the mountain. It's cloudy, it's snowing and it's around -5C. (Having said that, there is actually some sunlight shining down in places over the town area as I write this report). And there's not much wind either. Tol lifts and gates will all be open. So there's lots of fresh snow about and very fine quality snow it is too - conditions should really be top notch this morning. There's lots of people already itching to get up there and waiting for the lifts to open. It's going to be another really great (and busy) day in Niseko! Looking ahead after snow today and perhaps tomorrow, after that clearer conditions are currently on the forecast from Monday through into midweek. --- As regular readers will know, we sometimes take a look back at how much snow has fallen and compare with previous seasons. Just for the fun of it, nothing more than that. So let's take a look at the current situation. As of 21st February 2014: - 1022cm of snowfall in the Hirafu Village area (observed in our reports) - 163cm for the month so far As of 21st February 2013 (ie. last season): - 1313cm of snowfall in the Hirafu Village area (observed in our reports) - 334cm for the month so far The Japan Meteorological Agency statistic for the whole of February in Kutchan town last season was 228cm, and 216cm the season before that. This February so far they have recorded 110cm (not including today). Remember the JMA Kutchan readings are taken in Kutchan town, and our readings are observed in the Hirafu Village area - and it's generally thought that you can add another 50% or so to the number to get an idea of what might have fallen higher up on the mountain. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 12 hours snowfall 50cm, light crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, mild wind, 50cm of fresh, no snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -13C, 40cm. Hirafu 1000m: -12C, 20cm of fresh. Peak 1308m: NW8.9m/s, -14.1℃. Coastal data: Benkei cape WSW5m/s, Kamui capeNNW9m/s, 1.2m waves, 1017hPa. Snowclouds generated by a small low-pressure is mostly covering the west side of the Niseko range, dumping 40-50cm of crystal snow. The snow is fluffy and light in the mild wind. Looking at the snowfall transition and observations, the avalanche hazard in regular terrain is moderate, however still considerable to high in typical avalanche terrain. Peak gates will open from the morning. Steep open slopes such as the Backbowl’s sidewalls remains very hazardous. Better not ride all the way down to the bottom from the Annupuri second bowl (F5-E4 of Niseko Rule’s map). Avalanches strike from above. Higashi-One cornice slopes are equally hazardous (H7-8). 50cm thick surface slab slides are to be highly considered in the strictly off-limits Haru-no-taki area. DO NOT enter these off-limits areas. Cracks are lurking underneath fresh snow, attentively observe the hubbles on the slopes. Falling in those cracks can lead serious consequences. It is recommended to stay in-bounds or close to the resort today. The snow is great, overhead blowers, light and deep. Beware of getting stuck in the forest. Always be conscious of the hazards of backcountry skiing and stay prudent. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 395cm Base - 195cm Niseko Village: Top - 360cm Base - 215cm Annupuri: Top - 335cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 21st February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1022cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 77 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 163cm reported on 17 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 994cm Posted on Wednesday 19th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just under 10cm of fresh snow this morning since yesterday here in the Hirafu area, though I notice the Avalanche report below is saying 40cm in places over at Annupuri due to snowdrift. Strong winds have not been very friendly the last few days, causing some very large lift lines at some of the lifts on the mountain again. I'm afraid it looks like the top lifts at Hirafu (Ace 4, King 3, King 4) are going to be affected again this morning and I don't yet have any updates from the other resorts at the time of writing. Please check before going is the best advice. Hirafu is expecting the strong winds to remain until evening today so hopefully we can stop talking about wind tomorrow. Expect a mad rush situation once those lifts and gates get to re-open! It's mostly cloudy this morning but thinning with a bit of blue sky just about visible in some places. Snow showers probably won't be too far away though over the next few days. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 15cm of fresh snow with development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: NNW16m/s, -9C, developing snowdrifts and poor visibility. Annupuri 1150m: gusty NNW20m/s, -11C, 40cm of new snow with snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -10℃, 20cm of new snow with snowdrift development. Peak 1308m: N12.3m/s, -12.5℃. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW11m/s, Kamui cape E4m/s, 3m waves, 1015hPa. The isobars are starting to space out, but the wind remains strong above 800m. Cornices and snowdrifts are still developing. The snow in the trees is lighter nice blowers, however avalanche risk remains high in wind affected snowdrift/cornice slopes above 800m. Gate 2 & 3 will be kept closed. Other gates undecided. Please respect the ski patrol’s instructions and do not duck ropes to seek fresh tracks. One irresponsible track left under the rope will lead many others to do the same and increase the chances of accidents to occur. Cracks are hidden under fresh snow, beware of falling into hidden-cracks. Falling headfirst can lead to suffocation or other critical situation. Be careful choosing your route. Do not traverse across slopes under cornices today. Ski/ride down the fall line. The storm will pick up again as the isobars narrow up again, beware of sudden weather changes. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 375cm Base - 175cm Niseko Village: Top - 360cm Base - 215cm Annupuri: Top - 330cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 19th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 994cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 75 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 135cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 997cm Posted on Thursday 20th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is a cold and snowing morning here in the Niseko area. There's not much to report yet in terms of cm - less than 5cm - but it will probably building up during the day. What's better is that this morning there is much less wind about and all of the mountain seems prepared to be open including the top lifts. There's lots of excited people already lined up for those first lifts getting up there right now. Looks like peak gates will be open as well. Visibility isn't the best, don't get too carried away and take care! Snowfall, maybe on and off, forecast over today and the next few days and keeping cold. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 5cm of fresh in the past 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: mild wind and 10cm of fresh. Annupuri 1150m: mild wind, -13C, 3cm of fresh. Hirafu 1000m: mild wind, 3cm of fresh, calm weather. Peak 1308m: NW3.0m/s, -12.9C. 12:00 forecast: NW10m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW7m/s, Kamui cape W4m/s, 1.4m waves, 1019hPa. The isobars are spacing out, making the wind and snowdrift development calm down. The snowpack is stabilizing. Peak gates will open from the morning. A small avalanche occurred in 800m lower Annupuri bowl (O-sawa) middle-ridge yesterday, one skier got buried but been rescued safely. Avalanche hazard remains considerable in some areas today. Better not traverse open steep slopes such as the Backbowl’s sidewalls. Falling cornices, traversing slopes or stimulating knolls could all trigger a slide. Most cases, people get buried in avalanches triggered by someone else. If you trigger a slide, you’re not only putting yourself in danger but others that are below you. Cracks are hiding under newly formed snowdrifts. Be especially careful in Moiwa bowl and Higashi-One. Do not duck ropes. Be prepared with avy-gear and use the gates to step out of bounds. Guides and leaders are responsible for their group’s safety. Have a nice 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 - 330cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Thursday 20th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 997cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 76 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 138cm reported on 16 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in 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 1032cm Posted on Saturday 22nd February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's a lovely morning in the Niseko area, nice and calm but and mostly clear with blue skies and importantly that new delivery of 10-15cm of snow that I have just signed off on making it even lovelier. Lovely. Perfect weather and probably conditions too for the start of the weekend. And the fine clearer weather looks like it's going to continue as well, though the downer of that (apart from the probably lack of fresh overnight deliveries) is that from early in the week it will probably be getting a bit milder than it has been with town temps. getting into positive numbers. For now though, should be a really great day. Busy, but great. Have fun finding those untouched places! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -9C, 12 hours snowfall 30cm of crystal snow, no development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: N6m/s, 30cm, -9C, moderate development of snowdrifts overnight. Annupuri 1150m: N7m/s, -11C, development of snowdrift. Peak 1308m: NNW5.9m/s, -12.3℃. Hirafu 1000m: -8℃, 20cm of fresh snow. Coastal data: Benkei cape N11m/s, Kamui cape E5m/s, 1.7m waves, 1022hPa. Isobars are largely spacing out, mild wind with no drastic development of snowdrifts. Accirding to snowfall transition and 5am observations, the general avalanche risk is low. The surface layer of new snow is getting heavier on top of Feb 13-15th layer, caution is still required in 1100m altitude slopes with heavy load of snowdrifts. Winter mountains are always hazardous, especially in this time of the season. Opening of gates 2, 3 and 6 will be delayed in order to minimize happy-go-lucky visitors. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Riding the anti-avalanche barriers along route 66 is dangerous. Parking on the road is prohibited. Beware of sudden weather changes and falling into cracks. The snow is in good condition. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 390cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 360cm Base - 215cm Annupuri: Top - 355cm Base - 230cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 22nd February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1032cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 78 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 173cm reported on 18 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 1037cm Posted on Friday 28th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Niseko and we do actually have some new snow to report. It's a bit wet, but it's snow all the same - we'll take it! It's not snowing now and actually the sun is making an appearance. The forecast does seem to telling us to expect sun today. Hopefully it will be getting colder over the next few days as well and from Monday snow clouds should be back over the region. I have to write my report early this morning and so I don't have complete news yet from the resorts regarding lifts but there may well be some stopped this morning due to the wind. The only thing I have as of 8am is that Annupuri say they'll open if and when the wind calms down, so seems at least some delays there. Please check with the resorts for the updates on that situation. Update: Niseko Grand Hirafu are saying that the top King 3, King 4 and Ace 4 lifts will not be opening on time due to the wind up there. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: 0C, 3cm of wet wind-affected snow. Moiwa 800m: n/a. Annupuri 1150m: W15m/s, -6C, development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -6C, light snowfall. Peak 1308m: NW21.6m/s, -8C. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW14m/s, Kamui cape NW12m/s, 1.0m waves, 1012hPa. Warm air inflow with wet snowfall due to passing low-pressure system. Westerly wind is picking up above 600m as the cold-front passed early morning. Re-crystallized snow due to temperature drop is unstable and easily sliding in steep faces. Tracks have frozen under treeline and the skiing condition is bad. Peak gates opening is yet to be determined, please respect the ski patrol’s decisions. The weather is forecasted to temporarily improve, however another storm will start picking up as soon as snow-clouds start to form on the Sea of Japan. Keep in mind that many of the accidents occur during poor weather conditions. Have a safe day. Spring season is approaching. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 200cm Annupuri: Top - 355cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 28th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1037cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 80 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 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 1047cm Posted on Monday 3rd March 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Rejoice! There's 10-15cm of fresh snowfall to report this morning with the report below logging in 20cm on the mountain. Now that's more like it. It isn't snowing just at this moment as I am writing this, just cloudy conditions but snow is forecast on and off for the day today. The forecast is looking encouraging as well with the chance of snowfall every day through until at least the weekend. This could be good, so yes... bring it on! With the new layer of snow this morning conditions should be improved today, though of course we could do with more to cover up the fresh-less conditions we have had underneath over the last week. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 15cm of overnight snowfall. Moiwa 800m: n/a. Annupuri 1150m: W8m/s, -10C, 15cm of fresh, light development of snowfall, snowpack 315cm. Hirafu 1000m: -9C, 20cm of fresh with light development of snowdrifts. Peak 1308m: WNW11.5m/s, -13C. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW13m/s, Kamui cape W10m/s, 1.5m waves, 1017hPa. Typical wintry pressure pattern (high in the west, low in the east) generated some snowfall overnight. Shallow, but good quality snow. According to snowfall transition and observations, the new snow in lee-slopes above 800m is forming soft-slabs and could potentially slide from Feb 28th layer. The snow is not fully reset in the forest; old tracks and hard snowballs are hiding under. Ski carefully. The groomers’ conditions are very good and powder condition can be safely enjoyed in un-groomed courses during the morning. Peak gates will open from the morning, please use gates and do not cross boundary ropes. The snow will pick up as the isobars narrows down, beware of sudden weather changes. Developing snowdrifts in high altitude steep slopes are very unstable and could trigger a 40cm thick avalanche. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 375cm Base - 180cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 200cm Annupuri: Top - 360cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 3rd March 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1047cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 81 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 10cm 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