Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 898cm Posted on Wednesday 5th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Yesterday was a great day. Beautiful blue skies, just a few clouds, calm. Lots of goods on offer as well due to the wind of the previous few days keeping lifts closed. Nice. Just a few cm of new snowfall to report this morning in Hirafu and a cold -11 degrees. After the clearness of yesterday, we are back to snow and limited visibility this morning and it is snowing again. It was actually much clearer just earlier on this morning, so it just shows how quickly conditions can and do change. Snowfall forecast for the next few days and it will remain cold. Wrap up well! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -11C, Trace new snow crystals in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: -13C, calm, no significant snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -16C, wind N10m/s. Hirafu 1000m: -16C, some snowdrift development, Northerly wind and snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: -17.4C, wind NNW11.1m/s. Cape Benkei: NNE10m/s, Cape Kamui: wind N7m/s, wave 0.8m, pressure 1008hPa. From this mornings observations shallow snowdrifts around 1000m East Ridge (HigashiOne) are likely to slide. There has been little snow in the last 12hrs and the surface is not reset, but snow is good. The avalanche risk will increase though the afternoon with the expected increase in wind and snow. 1-2nd Feb frost layer will become notable in snowpack, note the future snowfall transition. Avalanches often occur in windy and snowy conditions. Snow conditions change everyday, snowdrifts develop rapidly on leeward slopes in strong winds and can easily collapse high above you on the mountain. A slope that was good yesterday isn’t necessarily good today. Gate openings yet to be decided. Please follow the patrols advice. Enter the mountains with caution, a few small mistakes and overconfidence is the cause of many accidents. Have a good day, beware frostbite. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 345cm Base - 230cm Annupuri: Top - 285cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Wednesday 5th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 898cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 65 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 39cm reported on 5 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 881cm Posted on Sunday 2nd February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's just a thin layer of new snowfall to report this morning. After the windy conditions of yesterday - it's somewhat calmer this morning, though still a moderate wind is affecting the top lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu and Niseko Village as of mid morning. Earlier on this morning the sun was making an appearance and there was only a light wind, but it has clouded over and snow and windy conditions are forecast for the rest of the day. Having said that, it's a relatively mild day after it being really cold overnight. Should get colder again from tomorrow though and snow is lined up on the forecast for at least the first half of the week. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -11, no new snow in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: -12C, trace new snow, snow drift development eased. Annupuri 1150m: -11C, trace new snow. Hirafu 1000m: -11, 10cm new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: -12.6C, wind WSW7.6m/s. Cape Benkei: SSE10m/s, Cape Kamui: wind calm, wave 1.1m, pressure 1013hPa. The strong winds for the last 2 days have dropped in the last 10 hrs and new snowdrifts are starting to stabilise. The overall avalanche risk is beginning to fall however around 1000m Kozen no sawa, Osawa, Higashione (east ridge) cornice slope, the risk of slabs fracturing continues. Also on south facing slopes below 850m the risk continues from Jan 28-29 layer. Peak gates are expected to open today. Please listen to the patrols advice before exiting the gates. The snow is good. The 2nd Feb layer is expected to become a notable layer in future snow pack due to surface frost. Pay attention to the snow conditions, heavily wind effected slopes are not good riding, take care falling. Dont traverse under cornices. Dont set off any avalanches. Switch on your beacon. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 345cm Base - 230cm Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Sunday 2nd February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 881cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 62 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 22cm reported on 2 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 896cm Posted on Tuesday 4th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just under 10cm of fresh snow this morning in the Hirafu village area. Light snow and cloudy/overcast earlier on this morning but the skies have been clearing and we seem to be on for a fine, sunny day. Can't say I was expecting that! The local forecast still has cloud for the day so it may well cloud over once again. For now though - lovely morning. Not much wind as well this morning with all resorts open as planned. And it's keeping cold too, so it should be a good morning to be out on the mountain. Back to snowy conditions tomorrow through Friday. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 5cm of new snow in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: Occassional northern flurries, Anbetsu side 30cm snowdrift growth. Annupuri 1150m: -13C, wind W8m/s, 10cm snowdrift growth. Hirafu 1000m: -12C, 10cm new snow, calm. Annupuri peak 1308m: -16.9C, wind NW10.3m/s. Cape Benkei: NW9m/s, Cape Kamui: wind N7m/s, wave 1.6m, pressure 1009hPa. The weather is calm at both sea and mountains and there is little noticeable snowdrift development. Avalanche risk is low. Peak gates are expected to open this morning. Yesterdays tracks are not covered but the snow is good. The ridge lines are hard and crusty, not good for riding. When traversing go one by one. Ride the fall line, dont keep traversing under the cornices. More cracks are appearing everyday, they release tension in the slope but do not necessarily cause an avalanche immediately. However on NW to NE (Goshiki Onsen side)slopes it is possible for a huge avalanche to be triggered deep within the snowpack at the same time the crack opens. Have a good day. Dont duck ropes. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 345cm Base - 230cm Annupuri: Top - 285cm Base - 210cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Tuesday 4th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 896cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 64 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 37cm reported on 4 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 938cm Posted on Friday 7th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here And it's another cold morning in Niseko with 15cm or so of fresh snow down here in my Hirafu village base. I was told that it was clearer again earlier on this morning, but a bit of a late start for me today and now it is cloud and... yes, you guessed it... snowing, albeit lightly at the moment. Snow showers for the day seems to be the forecast. Saturday tomorrow of course and we might get some sunshine and a break from the snow clouds. It will remain cold though and we should be returning to snow on Sunday. It's never that far away mid season! It should be a good day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 15cm new snow crystals in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: -14C,calm, cm snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri 150m: -18, calm. Hirafu 1000m: -13C, calm. Annupuri peak 1308m: -18.6C, wind WNW8.7m/s. Cape Benkei: wind NNW14m/s, Cape Kamui: wind W9m/s, wave 1.9m, pressure 1019hpa. The winter weather pattern has calmed and isobars moved apart and snow drifts are beginning to stabilise. From observation snow is stable under 800m and avalanche risk is begiining to fall, but Kozan no sawa 1100m, Osawa 1000m and HigashiOne cornice slope the risk continues. Peak gates are expected to open this morning, but please listen to the patrols advice before leaving. Outside the gate is not the ski area and everybody is responsible for themselves. Don't rest at the bottom of steep slopes, in gullies or on slopes under cornices. Dont traverse steep slope and trigger avalanche, there are many people on the mountain and can easily bury them below. Around 1000m there is the possibility to trigger slab avalanche by skier stimulation on Feb 6th layer due to delayed stabilisation from the cold weather. Snow is great have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 390cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 230cm Annupuri: Top - 305cm Base - 220cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Friday 7th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 938cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 67 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 79cm reported on 7 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 923cm Posted on Thursday 6th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu and I have another 25cm or so of fresh snow to report. Very nice snow too, conditions should be very good indeed this morning out on the mountain (where there will likely be even more of course). It's another very cold morning and I'm glad to say less wind. Yesterday wind make access limited at the resorts, but at the start of the day while we have a moderate wind blowing it does not seem to be affecting lift operations. Obviously that can change any time, but fingers crossed... So it's snowing - still! :) - but visibility is limited. It's that Sapporo Snow Festival time of the year, with many people visiting Niseko making the trip over to Sapporo to take a look at the very impressive snow sculptures and enjoy the festivities. It's well worth a look. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 25cm new snow in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: -14C, wind W15m/s, major snowdrift development, poor visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -18C, wind W16m/s, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: -13C, 25cm new snow, snowdrift development. Annupuri peak 1308m: -18.1C, wind WNW7.7m/s. Cape Benkei, Cape Kamui: no data. Strong wind and heavy snow have entered the region and there has been major snowdrift development on leeward faces. Mikaeri Bowl, Osawa cornice slope, Kozen no sawa, HigashiOne cornice slope the avalanche risk is HIGH. Peak gates 2&3 will be closed. Others undecided, please follow the patrols instructions. From observation around 800m elev, new slab development on cornices and knolls is 120cm. There is possibility of 80cm surface slab fracture easily triggered from rider stimulation. Dont carelessly jump cornices or into steep slopes today. The snow in the trees is good. Beware trees, cracks, frostbite. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 390cm Base - 200cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 230cm Annupuri: Top - 300cm Base - 212cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Thursday 6th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 923cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 66 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 64cm reported on 6 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 943cm Posted on Saturday 8th February 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Brrrr, it's very very cold this morning. And those of you reading this in Tokyo - or hearing about the forecast 'heavy' snowfall down there - might be thinking that we'd be getting masses more up here.... but actually, we've just got 5cm or so from yesterday and no more this morning. And instead of stormy snow clouds above Niseko right now.... it's clear, sunny and calm. It often happens like that. So yes the sun is out and it's going to be a fine day. Snow should be back with us tomorrow. Keep well wrapped up, the cold is going to continue. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -15C, no new snow in last 12 hrs, clear, cold & surface frost. Moiwa 800m: -14C,calm, no snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: -15C, calm, no new snow. Hirafu 1000m: -13℃, calm, no new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: -16.7C, wind N4.3m/s. Cape Benkei: wind S4m/s, Cape Kamui: wind NE5m/s, wave 1.1m, pressure 1021hpa. A high pressure system has brought us a clear cold night and a surface frost has formed, which will become notable in future snow pack. Drifts formed over the last few days have stabilised and general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates are expected to open this morning. Please listen to the patrols advice before exiting the gates. While it is not enforced, it is recommended everyone wears a beacon and knows how to use it. The snow is good. Every year as technology improves your riding speed increases. Remember, if you hit a tree – the tree always wins. Take care drinking too much, a fall down the stairs can lead to a serious accident. This information is issued for the safety of all mountain users. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and lift news at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 390cm Base - 205cm Niseko Village: Top - 350cm Base - 230cm Annupuri: Top - 305cm Base - 220cm Niseko Now 2013-2014 season Data as of Saturday 8th February 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 943cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 68 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 84cm reported on 8 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 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