Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 615cm Posted on Sunday 12th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another 25cm of snow since yesterday. I'm sure I said that yesterday. Yes, I did. But it's true, as the snow just doesn't seem to want to stop at the moment. Good snow wants to fall on Niseko! There's not as much wind this morning but later on stronger winds forecast. Snow is still falling and visibility is generally fairly poor. Apart from the top lifts at Grand Hirafu and the Jumbo Number 4 lit at Annupuri having a late start as they cope with snow, all lifts plan to be running as scheduled. Let's look at the numbers and see what they say. Today Niseko Grand Hirafu is reporting 175cm at base and 360cm on upper areas. The same day last year those numbers were 200cm and 380cm respectively. So actually a bit less than last year. In our Now report on January 12th 2013 we were reporting a running total of 756cm of snowfall since the beginning of the season. Today that same number for this season is 615cm. The Japan Meteorological Agency's numbers for Kutchan town for January 2013 were 268cm. So far this month we have 134cm and so we're half way there in 12 days. December 2013 saw less snowfall than December 2012 and so it would be good to 'catch up'. Just for the sake of the numbers! Whatever the numbers are, continued snow refreshes are making for excellent conditions every day. Take care out there and have fun. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 20cm of fresh. Moiwa 800m: -11C, NW10m/s, 30cm of fresh, large & unstable development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW15m/s, -14C, 40cm snow, large development of unstable cornices and snowdrifts. Annupuri peak: W8m/s, -15℃. Wind forecast at noon: WNW20m/s. Hirafu 12hours snowfall 40cm. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW10m/s, Kamui cape W9m/s, 2m waves, 1016hPa. The isobars are spacing out as the next low-pressure system is approaching, and the wind is stagnating around 10m/s since 2am. However, the wind is forecasted to pick up later today. The avalanche risk is high above 800m. Possibilities of 80-120cm thick surface slab avalanches are present in the Backbowl, Osawa 1100m cornice slopes, Higashi-One cornice slopes and Mikaeri Bowl. Gate 2 & 3 will be kept closed today. Gate 1 & 4 are scheduled to open, however traversing all the way across to the cornices is strongly not recommend. Very hazardous conditions today. Other gates still to be determined, please respect the ski patrol’s decisions. The mountain is in unstable conditions due to the continuing storm; keep in mind that accidents are most likely to occur during and just after storms. Beware of sudden weather changes, stay humble and be prudent. Have you switched your avy beacon on? --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 360cm Base - 175cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 180cm Annupuri: Top - 220cm Base - 190cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Sunday 12th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 615cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 43 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 217cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 590cm Posted on Saturday 11th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here First the great news. Another 25cm of snow since yesterday. Yes, it just keeps on coming. And so do the cold temperatures, so snow conditions out on the mountain are just really great at the moment. Less great is that wind is causing a few issues this morning - at Annupuri the Gondola, Jumbo 3 and 4 lifts are not moving at the moment; at Niseko Village the Gondola is on hold; and here at Grand Hirafu the top lifts at both Hirafu and Hanazono are on standby. Subject to change of course with the weather conditions. Fingers crossed on that score. One more thing that I think I forgot to mention yesterday. Today and tomorrow are the weekend of course, but in Japan Monday is also a holiday making it a long weekend and one of the more popular 'ski weekends' of the season with Japanese. So it will be - and is already - busy. Without wanting to sound repetitive, the snow should continue today and tomorrow and probably Monday too. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 30cm of fresh snow. Moiwa 800m: NW15m/s, -13C, 20cm of fresh snow with heavy development of snowdrifts, bad visibility. Annupuri 1000m: strong wind and bad visibility (6am), -11C, 20cm of fresh with snowdrift development. Hirafu1000m: 30cm of fresh, relatively protected from the wind. Annupuri peak 1308m: NW14.8m/s, -17.3C. Wind frecast at noon: NW18m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW16m/s, Kamui cape WNW12m/s, 2.4m waves, 1018hPa. Snowstrom is persisting and generating heavy snowdrift development. The avalanche hazard is extreme in 800m leeward steep slopes. Peak gates will be closed. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Heavy snowfall and the new snowpack is deep and heavy. Cornices and knolls are extremely unstable. Do not stimulate these features. Avalanches are most likely to occur during stormy conditions. The snow in the trees is deep and good, but also easy to get stuck, stay close to the course. Beware of tumbles and suffocation. The snow condition is ever changing. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 180cm Annupuri: Top - 205cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 11th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 590cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 42 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 192cm 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 30cm Snowfall at base this season 645cm Posted on Monday 13th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Mad snow at the moment in Niseko. On the mountain yesterday there was considerably more than the amount we had noted down here in the village area, and it just kept on coming with heavy snow conditions. This morning there's yet another 30cm or so here, so let's presume that there was once again more up on the mountain. Let's forget about the fine details of numbers though... it's simply very deep out there at the moment. We're at that point when some of people are wishing for the snow to stop and for the sun to come out - these kinds of conditions every day are not for everyone. It's also extremely cold this morning. A moderate wind doesn't seem to be affecting lifts too much, with just a few running at reduced speed as I write this report. Limited visibility as you might expect. So it's full on winter conditions - so go out prepared. Read the Avalanche Report and stay safe. Most of all, enjoy it! We might see a slight let up tomorrow but generally we still have snow forecast every day into the weekend. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -12C, 20cm of broken crystal snow in the past 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: -13C, strong NW wind with snowdrift development, bad visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -16C, considerable development of cornice and snowdrifts. Peak 1308m: NW14.1m/s, -18.1℃. Wind forecast at noon: NW18m/s. Hirafu 1000m: 80cm snowfall in 12 hours with development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW13m/s, Kamui cape NNW10m/s, 1.5m waves, 1014hPa. Snowclouds are still widely present over the Sea of Japan and stormy condition continues. According to snowfall transition and data evaluation, the overall avalanche risk is high. Refrain from stimulating knolls and open steep slopes. An avalanche occurred in Higashi-One no.3 gully yesterday, ripping the skis off a skier. The cornices are still very unstable & heavy, and can easily burry a person if falling with it. Snow is deep in the trees as well, boarders should consider carrying snowshoes. Gates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 will be closed. Keep in mind that accidents often happen during poor weather conditions. Be prudent. The conditions will turn better soon. Better not push it too hard today, go for a quick ride and better go chill out in an onsen. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 290cm Base - 210cm Annupuri: Top - 235cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 13th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 645cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 44 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 35cm (14th, 15th and 24th December) November 2013 snowfall 123cm reported on 9 days December 2013 snowfall 275cm reported on 22 days January 2014 snowfall 247cm 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 700cm Posted on Wednesday 15th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here So after I posted the report yesterday morning the clouds did clear up and the sun did make an appearance. For a short time at least, it was blue skies and sun along with cold conditions. Beautiful. And those superb snow conditions...! The clear skies didn't last long though, evidence being the 15cm of fresh snowfall to report from Hirafu this morning. It continues to snow early this morning as well and that's basically what is forecast for the day today. Though there is a chance of the clouds clearing up some during the day as well. Whatever, it looks like the continued heavy snowfall we have had over the last week or so though is easing off. Even so, the snow clouds probably won't ever be too far away and it should be keeping good and cold. Top gates should be open this morning. More on that below... --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 15cm of crystal snow in the past 12 hours. Miwa 800m: -11C, W10m/s, 20cm of fresh, good visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -13C, W10m/s, 20cm of fresh, moderate development of snowdrift. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, 20cm of fresh. Peak 1308m: WSW4.5m/s, -16℃, wind forecast at noon: W15m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW8m/s, Kamui cape W11m/s, 1.6m waves, 1023hPa. Calm conditions under high-pressure zone. According to observation and data evaluations, no drastic snowdrift development can be observed and the overall avalanche risk is low. Peak gate 2 & 3 are scheduled to open at 10am. Ask for the ski patrol’s advice before stepping out the gates. Avalanche hazard is still high the Backbowl and Higashi-One steeps & knolls around the cornices. Better not take it too easy and drop into these slopes without determination. If it slides, it will be big. Better avoid the valley bottoms. The number of people ducking ropes is increasing. Niseko area strongly demands all people to respect the Niseko Rules; no matter where you’re from, what ethnic groups, how much experience or knowledge you might have. Ropes must not be crossed for any reasons. One track under the ropes leads many others to do the same and quickly increase the chances of accidents to happen. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 210cm Niseko Village: Top - 310cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 245cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 15th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 700cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 46 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 302cm 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 40cm Snowfall at base this season 685cm Posted on Tuesday 14th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I have been sat here trying to decide what words to use this morning, especially as we try not to get too carried away with epic adjectives on these here reports, so I thought I'd try to just go for the numbers... I have measured 40-45cm of new snow since my last report. Like, wow. We are getting on for 3m of snowfall in January alone, and that's here in the village base area and so will likely be a fair bit more than that on the mountain. Grand Hirafu has upped it's upper snow depth to 4m this morning. Sun lovers can rejoice... for the moment anyway. As I am writing this we have some blue sky appearing over parts of the mountain and even a bit of sun. It may well be only a short view though with the latest forecasts continuing to give us snowy conditions right through the weekend. If you like it deep, then this is most certainly the place to be. January is shaping up to be outstanding. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 25cm of crushed crystal snow in the past 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: -11C, 40cm of fresh, light breeze & snowfall. Annupuri 1000m: -13C, light breeze, 50cm of fresh. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, 30cm of fresh with snowdrift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -16.2℃, N16.6m/s, wind forecast at noon: W10m/s. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW11m/s, Kamui cape NNW6m/s, 1.7m waves, 1021hPa. Heavy snowfall continues, but isobars are spacing out and the wind is calming down. Snow deposit up to 70cm on-piste. Soft-slabs, up to 150cm, have formed in leeward slopes above 800m. These slabs are still unstable and avalanche risk remains high. Peak gates will be closed. Other gates to be decided, please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Do not enter Haru no Taki area. A critical accident occurred in there in 1998 and the current conditions are quite alike. Accidents happen when the conditions are right and the Niseko Rules has been set to minimize the chances of accidents to happen. It is not just another formality to avoid responsibilities. Beware of cracks. Better stay close to in-bounds area today. The visibility is bad but the snow in the trees is deep and good. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 225cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 210cm Annupuri: Top - 245cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Tuesday 14th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 685cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 45 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 287cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 725cm Posted on Thursday 16th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here After the somewhat disappointing 'only 15cm' in the report yesterday, we are back to 25cm since yesterday in todays report. I'm only kidding about the disappointing bit of course. After I posted the report yesterday morning we were treated to clearer and sunny conditions again for a while. Could the same happen again today? You know what, it actually might and there are signs of some blue sky showing through in places and the sun. It was snowing lightly earlier but has eased off now. There's a moderate wind this morning but apart from a few lifts moving at slower speeds, all is open. Anyway, obviously it was back to snowfall in time for that new delivery to report this morning. It's a good pattern - one that I would encourage those in charge of assigning the snow deliveries to stick to more often! So yes this morning we have yet another decent refresh on the mountain. It's interesting, many other resorts might not need the refresh as much as Niseko due to the popularity of this resort area. Popularity means that places get tracked out quicker. That also means that we perhaps suffer more than other places when conditions are dry. Good job we have that ongoing consistency. (Hope I haven't jinxed anything by saying that). Looking ahead, the forecast is actually for calm conditions over the next few days and a break in the daily heavy snowfall. I will of course report the latest to you here every day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -9C, 25cm crystal snowfall in 12 hours, no snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -11C, W8m/s, 30cm of fresh, overnight snowdrift development 80cm. Annupuri 1150m: -13C, 40cm of snowfall, notable snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, 20cm of fresh. Peak 1308m: -15C, NW13.1m/s. Wind forecast NW15m/s at noon. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW15m/s, Kamui cape W11m/s, 1.6m waves, 1018hPa. Intermittent snowfall continues under typical wintry pressure pattern. The isobars will start narrowing down as the low-pressure system shifts east and the wind will start picking up again. Wind-affected slopes are forming soft-slabs, however the snow under treeline is good. The general avalanche risk is low except in steep slopes of the Backbowl and Higashi-One cornice area. The cornces have grown big and are very unstable. Better stay away from them as they could largely collapse with a slight stimulation. Some cracks are starting to form especially in knoll terrain, these cracks are hard to see from above, please be careful not to fall in there. Gates opening is yet to be decided, please follow the ski patrols instructions. Do not duck ropes, use gates to access the out of bounds areas. The resort is always concerned about all user’s safety, and the Niseko Rules has been set for the sake of all resort users. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 420cm Base - 220cm Niseko Village: Top - 320cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 260cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Thursday 16th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 725cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 47 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 327cm 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 2cm Snowfall at base this season 737cm Posted on Sunday 19th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a few cm of snow to report from here in Hirafu village area this morning. It has been a somewhat dull and overcast start to the day here though things have been clearing up away from the mountain and looking out towards Yotei where there's lots of clear blue sky. Some bright areas on the lower mountain as well at the moment... feels like it's going to clear up again? Fairly strong northerly winds this morning are affecting some of the lifts at resorts including the Annupuri Gondola, Jumbo 3 and 4 lifts; the Niseko Gondola and Wonderland Chair at Niseko Village; the King Number 3, King Number 4 and Ace Number 4 lifts at Grand Hirafu; and the top Hanazono lift. Wind speeds of up to 19m/s being logged by the people over on Annupuri. Hopefully see some more snowfall later on tonight and then it looks like it'll be on and off for the first half of the coming week, but probably nothing major in terms of snow. Come on now... we want our refills! Snow falling or not, it is going to remain cold. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, trace new snow in the last 12 hrs, falling from 5am.Moiwa 800m -11C, wind W from 5am, Annupuri 1150m -13C, wind NNW 15m/s, some snow drift development. Hirafu 1000m -12C, wind N15m/s, snowfall and snow drift development from 5am. Annupuri Peak 1308m -12.5C, wind N17.6m/s – wind predicted at noon NW15m/s. Cape Benkei SE3m/s, Cape Kamui ESE3m/s, wave 2m, pressure 1014hpa. Little snowfall in the last 24hrs and the mountain is tracked out. Isobars are moving closer together and snow clouds will develop. Above 800m rapid development of snow drifts is expected. Backcountry conditions are not good, gates 2 & 3 will be closed, others yet to be decided. Please follow Patrols decisions. The Jan 17th frost layer will become possible fracture layer in future snowpack. Avalanche occurrence and scale are related to how the snow has fallen. During and directly after storms are high risk times for avalanches in Niseko. Today the danger of avalanches is high on steep slopes due to wind effected slabs. The mountain conditions change everyday, dont over estimate your skills, safety first. Dont duck ropes looking for fresh lines, Beware trees, cracks. Have a great day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 195cm Niseko Village: Top - 320cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 270cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Sunday 19th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 737cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 49 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 339cm 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 5cm Snowfall at base this season 745cm Posted on Tuesday 21st January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here About 5cm of new snowfall to report this morning though it looks from the report below that resort areas have seen up to 15cm of fresh up there. Less wind this morning, it feels nice and calm and while there's still cloud around there's lots of blue skies around. It's a lovely morning. Still, the chance of snowfall sometime later on today and also tomorrow as well. Things have of course calmed down since that magnificent run of snowfall until last week so let's take a breather and look at some of the numbers for January so far. Remember these numbers are observed snowfall, here in the Hirafu village area. -- 347cm of snow for January 2014 -- 60cm of that being in the last 7 days -- 740cm total for the 2013/2014 season so far The corresponding numbers as posted on January 21st 2013 were: -- 370cm of snow for January 2013 -- 123cm in the last 7 days -- 906cm total for the 2012/2013 season so far Last season JMA recorded 268cm of snow in Kutchan town for the whole of January. So far this January, that same number is on 228cm. Let's see how those numbers pan out come the end of the month! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -9C, 10cm new snow in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -11C, wind SW5m/s. 15Cm new snow, no snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -12C, 15cm new snow, minor snowdrift development, wind WSW8m/s. Annupuri peak1308m: -12.8C, wind WNW5.9m/s, wind predicted to be NW10m/s at noon. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, wind calm, 15cm new snow. Cape Benkei: NW7m/s, Cape Kamui: N8m/s, wave 0.6m, pressure 1011hPa. There is no significant pressure gradient and both ocean and mountain are calm. From current observation the general avalanche risk is low. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the Patrols advice before going through the gates. This daily avalanche report is issued to help protect peoples right to enter the backcountry. The mountain contains many dangers, avalanches being just one danger. Beware trees, cracks and other hidden hazards. Make careful decisions without overconfidence and don’t rely too much on your equipment. You can not be too careful. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 390cm Base - 180cm Niseko Village: Top - 320cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 270cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Tuesday 21st January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 745cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 51 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 347cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 740cm Posted on Monday 20th January 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu. Another cold morning with a current temperature of -10 degrees and just a few cm of new snowfall to report and quite calm here at village level though the avalanche report tells us to to expect winds of around 10m/s around noon today. For now all resorts look set to go for the day. Weather conditions are currently cloudy with light snow being reported by Grand Hirafu but nothing major. Fingers crossed we'll get back into larger snowfall numbers from later on tomorrow. There's not much else to report really this morning, so until tomorrow! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 3cm new snow in the last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: -13C, wind W5m/s. Annupuri 1150m: -14C, 5cm new snow, no new snowdrift development, wind W10m/s. Annupuri peak1308m: -14.3C, wind W2.5m/s, wind predicted to be W10m/s at noon. Hirafu 1000m: -13C, trace new snow. Cape Benkei: NNW9m/s, Cape Kamui: NW 4m/s, wave 0.9m, pressure 1009hPa. Calm weather at both ocean and mountain. No obvious snow drift development. Generally the avalanche risk is low except for Kozon no sawa (back bowl) side walls. All gates are expected to open. Yesterdays tracks are not covered , be careful of falling and hitting trees. Cracks are hard to see from above, take care. Once you pass through the gates you are not in the ski area any more. Please follow the patrols advice. Be prepared. Do not duck ropes. Snow is shallow and fast. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 185cm Niseko Village: Top - 320cm Base - 220cm Annupuri: Top - 270cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Monday 20th January 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 740cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 50 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 342cm reported on 19 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 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 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 1093cm Posted on Friday 7th March 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A very good morning from Niseko. And yes it is another good one as I have about 25cm of fresh snow to report. It is good and cold as well, and snow is continuing to fall from the skies making visibility less than great on the slopes, but conditions should make up for that. I am beginning to like this early March! Less exciting is the moderate wind again today which at the moment looks to be affecting the following lifts: Annupuri: Gondola, Jumbo 4 Village: Wonderland chair Hirafu: Ace 4, King 3, King 4 Hanazono: Hanazono Number 3 As always, that can change with the conditions so lets hope they can get those top lifts moving, but looking at the forecast we can perhaps expect windy conditions for the next few days. (The good news is that we can also expect snow and cold temps too!) --- 9:20am update More lifts closed as the winds try to spoil things.... Annupuri is completely closed, with the Ace 3 and Swinging Monkey lifts not moving at Hirafu and the Hanazono Number 2 lift also stationary. Keep an eye on the official site for real-time updates. Take a look at the report below - extreme avalanche risk. Take care out there. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, stormy, 35cm of snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 600m: 40cm of snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: W15m/s, large development of snowdrifts, -14C. Hirafu 1000m: 40cm of new snow, -13C. Peak 1308m: W14.1m/s, -16.9℃. Coastal data: cape Benkei NW18m/s, cape Kamui W13m/s, 2.8m waves, 1010hPa. The low-pressure system has grown as powerful as a Typhoon and generating a very strong winter pressure pattern. The ocean and the mountains are under a heavy storm, making snowdrifts develop drastically. According to observations and snowfall transition, the avalanche risk in Niseko range and the surrounding mountains is extreme. Peak gates will be closed. Stay away from steeps, cornices and knolls above treeline. Snowdrifts have piled up to 200cm in thickest zones. Heavily developed cornices are extremely unstable and would trigger an avalanche as they fall. Potential sliding layer is March 3rd layer, which has become a weak hoar layer due to large temperature change, and can easily let go the slab above it. The surface slab is thick, heavy and very unstable. Most accidents are caused by stimulating developing snowdrifts (slabs). Mountain conditions are ever-changing. It can be safe one day but totally change to extreme conditions the next day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 410cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 380cm Base - 210cm Annupuri: Top - 380cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 7th March 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 1093cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 85 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 56cm reported on 5 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com