Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 20cm Snowfall at base this season 169cm Posted on Wednesday 10th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I have another 20cm or so of fresh snowfall to report this morning as it keeps on building up nicely. Nice. The Niseko Grand Hirafu resort area is now reporting 160cm of snow depth on upper areas and 100cm at base. Still no major changes to what is open out there, but from this morning the connection passageway between the top of the Niseko Gondola at Niseko Village and Niseko Grand Hirafu areas will be open for the first time this season. It's a 150m or so walk, good exercise! Connection between the Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village resort areas is not yet open. Tomorrow may not be quite as cold with temperatures in the village venturing up into positive numbers, but from Friday we have that cold front moving in that might well bring with it the very large amounts of snow that will open up our mountain in style. Let's hope that strong winds don't mess with our fun. Looks like it might be a very snowy weekend in many regions of Japan. Here's to us all getting our share! --- Here's what's open this morning: Niseko Grand Hirafu Courses: Family Course, Alpen, Detour for Beginners, Green, Center, Kokutai, Kogen, Ni-Kabe, Jumbo, Parallel, Rinkan (lowe), Setsuzoku. Lifts: Ace Family Lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Ace Number 3 lift, Hirafu Gondola, King Number 3 Triple lift, Swinging Monkey. Niseko Hanazono Courses: Stairway to Heaven, Silver Dream, Legend of Shinya, Yotei Sunset, Crystal Garden Lifts: All 3 quad lifts operating Niseko Village Courses: Final Fling, Shaky Knees, Next Stage, Banzai, Cruiser, Don't Blink, beginners course from Gondola, Junkyard, Namara (part ungroomed), Jagaimo (ungroomed), Misoshiru (ungroomed) Lifts: Niseko Gondola, Community Chair, Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Courses: Paradise Course, Junior Course Lifts: Jumbo Number 1 Quad --- Nighta is scheduled to open from Saturday 13th December. Just 3 more nights to go! --- Official snow depth numbers at the time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 160cm Base - 100cm Niseko Village: Top - 80cm Base - 50cm Annupuri: Top - 120cm Base - 90cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Wednesday 10th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 169cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 14 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (7th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 139cm 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 4cm Snowfall at base this season 135cm Posted on Monday 8th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Less than 5cm of fresh snow to report this morning and light snow falling but it has been easing now and again. Is that the sun I just saw through the clouds there just before? Maybe, but gone again now and snow falling again. (Light?) snow showers forecast through the week but the most promising is looking likely to be as we get into the weekend. More of the mountain is gradually opening up now, but we're still probably one dump away from being fully open. Niseko Grand Hirafu have got their Gondola open now as well as the King Number 3 Triple and Swinging Monkey lifts, bringing with them more accessible terrain. This now means that Grand Hirafu and Hanazono are now connected at the top. (Hirafu, Village and Annupuri are not yet connected on the mountain and a shuttle bus is needed if you want to go between them). Niseko Village also now have their Gondola moving and have opened up more courses. I have added those new details to the listings below. --- Here's what's open this morning: Niseko Grand Hirafu Courses: Family Course, Alpen, Detour for Beginners, Green, Center, Kokutai, Kogen, Number 2 Wall, Jumbo, Parallel, Setsuzoku. Lifts: Ace Family Lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Ace Number 3 lift, Hirafu Gondola, King Number 3 Triple lift, Swinging Monkey. Niseko Hanazono Courses: Stairway to Heaven, Silver Dream, Legend of Shinya, Yotei Sunset, Crystal Garden Lifts: All 3 quad lifts operating Niseko Village Courses: Final Fling, Shaky Knees, Next Stage, Banzai, Cruiser, Don't Blink, beginners course from Gondola, Junkyard, Namara (part ungroomed), Jagaimo (ungroomed), Misoshiru (ungroomed) Lifts: Gondola, Community Chair, Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Courses: Paradise Course, Junior Course Lifts: Jumbo Number 1 Quad --- Nighta is scheduled to open from Saturday 13th December. --- Official snow depth numbers at the time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 130cm Base - 75cm Niseko Village: Top - 80cm Base - 50cm Annupuri: Top - 120cm Base - 80cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 8th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 135cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 12 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (7th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 105cm 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 40cm Snowfall at base this season 131cm Posted on Sunday 7th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I'm happy to be able to report another big delivery of snow to report this morning. It has been snowing through the day yesterday and overnight as well, the result being 40cm or so of fresh snow down here in the village. Conditions out on the slopes yesterday were really great and it will only be better tomorrow. Better visibility too, for the moment anyway, as right now there's lots of blue sky and sun to enjoy. Snow is forecast on and off for the day so it may well not last long. Niseko Annupuri will be opening up in a short while at 9am this morning - they plan to have the Jumbo Number 1 lift running and the Paradise and Junior Courses should be open. Operations at Niseko Village seem to be remain unchanged this morning, but more courses opening at Grand Hirafu with the lower part of Green Course, Alpen, Kokutai and the Detour for Beginners now officially open up. Over at Hanazono, Stairway to Heaven, Legend of Shinya and Crystal Garden have joined the party. Wrap up well and enjoy! --- Here's what's open this morning: Niseko Grand Hirafu Courses: Family Course, Alpen, Detour for Beginners, Green, Center, Kokutai Lifts: Ace Family Lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Ace Number 3 lift Niseko Hanazono Courses: Stairway to Heaven, Silver Course, Yotei Sunset, Legend of Shinya, Crystal Garden Lifts: All 3 quad lifts operating Niseko Village Courses: Final Fling, Shaky Knees, Next Stage, Banzai Lifts: Community Chair, Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Courses: Paradise Course, Junior Course Lifts: Jumbo Number 1 Quad --- Official snow depth numbers at the time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 145cm Base - 90cm Niseko Village: Top - 70cm Base - 50cm Annupuri: Top - 110cm Base - 80cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Sunday 7th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 131cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 11 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (7th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 101cm 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 30cm Snowfall at base this season 241cm Posted on Sunday 14th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here 'It just doesn't stop snowing' is what I heard a few people say yesterday, and sometimes it feels like that. Another 30cm of snow observed since last report and the official numbers are gradually going up as well with Niseko Grand Hirafu nearly up to the 2m mark at peak. Take a look at the Avalance Report below... 50cm of new snowfall at Annupuri 1000m. It probably shows how much we are use to things here and how much we expect when the snowfall we have been having is seen as 'still insufficient'! There's more on the way though. It might ease tomorrow but heavy snowfall is again forecast from later Tuesday through Wednesday with a good chance of strong winds as well. Did I mention it's keeping very cold? -8 here earlier and that was at base. Shouldn't be quite as cold from tomorrow. So great snow conditions to play in at the moment, and still things are not as busy as they will soon be getting so a it's a fine time to be able to get out there. Hope you can get to enjoy it. Don't get stuck in it! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 30cm of broken crystal snow and light development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 650m: WNW10m/s, 40cm of new snow and moderate development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: NW16m/s at Benkei cape. Anupuri 1000m: W13m/s, -12CX, 50cm of new snow and bad visibility. The strong atmospheric pressure gradient is generating continuous snowfall. Cornices and snowdrifts are developing above 800m. The snow is slightly wind-affected, heavy and deep but in good shape. The snow is deep and you’ll easily get stuck in flat slopes, better stay close to the groomers. Beware of hitting trees. The snow is still insufficient and the gates opening will take some more time. Do not duck ropes to step out of bounds, always use gates. Niseko’s backcountry safety has been based on this simple rule in Niseko. Please follow the rules to protect the freedom of out of bounds riding. The avalanche risk is relatively high in all areas around Niseko today, especially around 800m leeward open steep slopes. Carefully select your route. No matter the snowfall amount, avalanches happen when the conditions are right, and become an accident if a person is involved. Beware of frostbites. Have a nice day. --- Here's what is planned to be open today (subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Courses: Family Course, Sen-no-ki, Alpen, Detour for Beginners, Green, Onsenzawa, Center, Shirakaba, Kokutai, Kogen, Ni-Kabe, Jumbo, Parallel, Rinkan, Setsuzoku, Jumbo, Parallel, Holiday Lifts: Ace Family Lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Ace Number 3 lift, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift, Hirafu Gondola, King Number 3 Triple lift, Swinging Monkey. Night skiing lifts: Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift Niseko Hanazono Courses: Stairway to Heaven, Silver Dream, Legend of Shinya, Yotei Sunset, Crystal Garden Lifts: All 3 quad lifts operating Night skiing lifts: No night skiing at Hanazono Niseko Village Courses: Final Fling, Shaky Knees, Next Stage, Banzai, Cruiser, Don't Blink, beginners course from Gondola, Junkyard, Namara (part ungroomed), Jagaimo (ungroomed), Misoshiru (ungroomed) Lifts: Niseko Gondola, Community Chair, Banzai Chair Night skiing lifts: Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Courses: Paradise, Family, Challenge, Marchen, Dynamic, Junior, Utopia, Shirakaba, Silver (9 out of 13 courses open) Lifts: Annupuri Gondola, Jumbo Number 1 Quad, Jumbo Number 2 Pair, Jumbo Number 3 Pair Night skiing lift: Jumbo Number 1 Quad --- Official snow depth numbers at the time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 190cm Base - 110cm Niseko Village: Top - 120cm Base - 80cm Annupuri: Top - 130cm Base - 100cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Sunday 14th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 241cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 18 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 40cm (7th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 211cm 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 45cm Snowfall at base this season 286cm Posted on Monday 15th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here What's this... blue skies?! The sun is out this morning. But what's this... close to half a metre of fresh snowfall?! Oh yes. With reports of 60cm or so on the mountain it's one of those mornings where you just HAVE to get the skis or board on and get out. Deep fresh powder along with a rare and perhaps unexpected break in the clouds. Almost perfect. It probably won't last long! The Morino Chair lift is now operating at Niseko Village and the really good sign is that the individual ski resorts are now not feeling the need to have to report on what courses are open. Which means that most of the mountain is now open. As mentioned in the Avalanche Report below, we now just wait for the gates to get opened and the top lifts. Still, conditions are so good elsewhere that there's surely more than enough to keep everyone happy. (Well maybe almost everyone!) The Gondola at Niseko Village, King Number 3 lift at Grand Hirafu and the top Hanazono lift are moving this morning, but have been running at reduced speeds early on due to a moderate wind. Snowfall will be back maybe even soon today but definitely tomorrow, and as with many regions of Japan once again we expect heavy snowfall and strong winds. After that slow start, December 2014 is shaping up nicely. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -8C, 40cm of crystal snow without snowdrift development. Coastal data: NNE9m/s at Benkei cape. Moiwa 650m: 60cm of new snow without snowdrift development. Annupuri 1000m: 120cm snowpack and 250cm snowpack in leeward slopes around 800m. Snow clouds are expanding throughout the Sea of Japan coastline and dropping heavy loads of snow in coastal mountain areas. 60cm of new snow has dumped in some areas but snowdrifts development is minimal. Snow and wind is forecasted to pick up again and will make cornices and slabs grow. Avalanches from Dec 10th layer are to be expected in steep exposed slopes above 800m. Newly formed slabs are getting thicker and although they are relatively stable, large-scale avalanches are still likely to happen with a slight stimulation around knoll terrains. The snowpack is steadily growing and gates below 1000m are being ready to open soon. Please be patient for a little longer. Do not duck ropes. Deep and light powder snow can be found along the courses today. Be careful not to get stuck. The storm will pick up soon. Remain in control and be careful not to fall. You can easily get suffocated in deep snow. --- Here's what is planned to be open today (subject to change): Niseko Grand Hirafu Courses: Super Course and Furiko Courses now open Lifts: Ace Family Lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Ace Number 3 lift, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift, Hirafu Gondola, King Number 3 Triple lift, Swinging Monkey. Night skiing lifts: Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift Niseko Hanazono Courses: Stairway to Heaven, Silver Dream, Legend of Shinya, Yotei Sunset, Crystal Garden Lifts: All 3 quad lifts operating Night skiing lifts: No night skiing at Hanazono Niseko Village Lifts operating: Niseko Gondola, Community Chair, Banzai Chair, Morino Chair Night skiing lifts: Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Lifts operating: Annupuri Gondola, Jumbo Number 1 Quad, Jumbo Number 2 Pair, Jumbo Number 3 Pair Night skiing lift: Jumbo Number 1 Quad --- Official snow depth numbers at the time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 190cm Base - 120cm Niseko Village: Top - 140cm Base - 100cm Annupuri: Top - 130cm Base - 110cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 15th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 286cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 19 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 256cm 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 30cm Snowfall at base this season 341cm Posted on Friday 19th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A bit of relative calm after the storm is the feeling this morning. Was a bit wild yesterday with the wind messing around with lift movements. Less wind this morning, less snow falling, and not quite as cold either. 'Just' -3 here at base according to my trusty thermometer, and indeed the resorts report similar temperature at their base levels, Niseko Village recording -7C on their upper slopes. Snow is forecast to ease off during the day today - might the sun make a bit of an appearance? - and a milder conditions due tomorrow. Looks like it might even rain a bit before turning into snow later in the day tomorrow. Let's hope not. OK anyway so 30cm or so of fresh snowfall to report since yesterday. It's difficult to read this morning with all of the wind that we had yesterday blowing it around. Just think lots of fresh snow to play in and you've pretty much got the picture. Over the last week or two it has been getting gradually busier in Niseko, from now on there'll be more and more people arriving daily so I would expect things to be noticeably busier. With everyone hopefully having the time of their lives, it should be a fun atmosphere. Make it so, everyone! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -3C, 15cm of crystal snow in 12hours. Moiwa 600m: -4C, calm wind and 25cm of broken crystal snow with development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW 12m/s, Kamui cape WNW7m/s, 1023hPa, 1.9m waves. Annupuri 1150m: -6℃, mild NW wind, good groomers conditions and snowdrift development. The current snowpack is 130cm at Annupuri 1000m. The atmospheric pressure gradient is small over the Sea of Japan, and the wind is mild around Niseko area. Yesterday’s northerly wind made snowdrifts develop slowly above 800m altitude. The Backbowl’s sidewalls are loaded with heavy snowdrifts. The avalanche hazard is high around 1100m Kozan no sawa (Backbowl) slopes, 900m Osawa cornice slopes. The gates are yet to open and peak hike is still restricted. The snow in the trees is a bit humid and in good condition. Beware of over-speeding and hitting trees. Do not duck ropes; one track left under a rope will lead many others to follow and unnecessarily increase the chances of accidents to happen. Crossing ropes is severely prohibited by the Niseko Rules. We’d like to call all accommodation facilities to inform their guests about the Niseko Rules. Have a nice day. --- Lifts planned to be operating, subject to change due to weather conditions. Any news at time of writing is noted in the main report above: Niseko Grand Hirafu Lifts: Ace Family Lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Ace Number 3 lift, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift, Hirafu Gondola, King Number 3 Triple lift, Swinging Monkey. Night skiing lifts: Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift Niseko Hanazono Lifts: Hanazono Number 1, Hanazono Number 2, Hanazono Number 3 Night skiing lifts: No night skiing at Hanazono Niseko Village Lifts: Niseko Gondola, Community Chair, Banzai Chair, Morino Chair. Night skiing lifts: Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Lifts: Annupuri Gondola, Jumbo Number 1 Quad, Jumbo Number 2 Pair, Jumbo Number 3 Pair Night skiing lift: Jumbo Number 1 Quad --- Official snow depth numbers at the time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 210cm Base - 90cm Niseko Village: Top - 150cm Base - 110cm Annupuri: Top - 135cm Base - 110cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 19th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 341cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 21 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 311cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 311cm Posted on Thursday 18th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This particular region of Hokkaido missed the worst of the storm yesterday. Places in eastern regions got much wilder conditions by the looks of things, and more snow too. Here I have 25cm or so of snow to report. Not bad of course, but much less than some places got. The official snow depth at Niseko Grand Hirafu resort is now up to 2m though. It's snowing this morning still and rather windy and here's how the wind conditions are affecting lifts as of before 9am: All of Annupuri on standby, though will open if weather conditions improve. The Niseko Gondola at Niseko Village is not moving, but the three lower lifts are open. The Hirafu Gondola, Ace Number 2 Center Four, Ace Number 3, King Number 3 Triple, Swinging Monkey lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu are not moving. All of the Hanazono lifts are not moving. So choice for the morning boils down to basically the lower areas of Hirafu or Village. Not crazy cold actually, with the temperature just under 0 right now. Tomorrow should see calmer conditions and the snowfall easing off. Back to snow at the weekend though. It's never far off! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -4C, light wind and 30cm of small broken crystal snow in 12 hours. Moiwa 600m: -4C, ENE10m/s, 40cm of new snow and light development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW15m/s, -7C and developing snowdrifts. Benkei cape: NNE15m/s. Kamui cape: ENE9m/s, 997hPa and 2.2m waves. The wind and snowfall is moderate under 800m as the low-pressure system moves east and the atmospheric pressure gradient is relatively small. The snow in the trees is pretty good. The storm is forecasted to pick up, strong northerly wind will make the cornices and snowdrifts develop drastically. The avalanche hazard level will rise considerably as the storm picks up during the day. The visibility is very bad. Riding slopes near/under cornices are to be avoided in all areas in and around Niseko. Avalanches are also likely to happen under chairlift lines and steep faces within the resorts. This information is released for the safety of all Niseko resorts’ guests. Do not duck boundary ropes. --- Lifts planned to be operating (* subject to change due to weather conditions). Any news at time of writing is noted in the main report above: Niseko Grand Hirafu Lifts: Ace Family Lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Ace Number 3 lift, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift, Hirafu Gondola, King Number 3 Triple lift, Swinging Monkey. Night skiing lifts: Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift Niseko Hanazono Lifts: Hanazono Number 1, Hanazono Number 2, Hanazono Number 3 Night skiing lifts: No night skiing at Hanazono Niseko Village Lifts: Niseko Gondola, Community Chair, Banzai Chair, Morino Chair. Night skiing lifts: Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Lifts: Annupuri Gondola, Jumbo Number 1 Quad, Jumbo Number 2 Pair, Jumbo Number 3 Pair Night skiing lift: Jumbo Number 1 Quad --- Official snow depth numbers at the time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 200cm Base - 90cm Niseko Village: Top - 140cm Base - 105cm Annupuri: Top - 130cm Base - 110cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Thursday 18th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 311cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 20 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 281cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 419cm Posted on Wednesday 24th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Another fine snowy morning here in Niseko with about 25cm fresh on the ground once more outside my place here in Hirafu. Going to be more than that up there, so conditions should be top notch again today on the mountain. It's still coming down very nicely now so refills aplenty during the day... and tomorrow and Friday by the looks. A steady supply of fresh light snow, nice. (Oh yes, just to update what I was reporting yesterday - the JMA snowfall number for December 2014 in Kutchan has now gone over that for December 2013. Keep it coming!) It's not as cold again here at base, just around -3C degrees now, with resorts reporting low temperatures at peak of -8C. Wind doesn't look like it's going to cause lift disruptions this morning. I'm hearing that Gates 5 and 6 should be opening very soon, bit more on that down in the Avalanche Report below. Top lifts at Hirafu, Village and Annupuri not yet moving but hopefully it's going to open soon. It being Christmas, there's a number of events going on. Santa should be found on the slopes today and tomorrow. Whether he will be skiing or snowboarding, unconfirmed! But apparently he will have some 'delicious presents' to give to some people who meet him. That's over at Hirafu anyway. I've got a feeling that he might be spotted elsewhere as well. Fireworks. Who doesn't like fireworks? Well, apart from my dog. Pets are advised to keep away from 9:15pm tonight when there'll be a firework display at Hirafu after the night skiing has finished. I have no doubt that once that lot has finished there will be further frivolity at various establishments around the village and beyond as well. Have fun. Wrap up well. Don't drink too much, etc. It may sound strange but in past seasons there have been very sad accidents happen late at night. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Niseko Grand Hirafu looks set to start the day as planned, top Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 lifts not moving yet. Niseko Hanazono: All Niseko Hanazono lifts will be open as normal. Niseko Village: Four lifts open as normal, top Wonderland Chair lift not moving yet. Niseko Annupuri: Four lifts open as normal, top Jumbo Number 4 lift not moving yet. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -3C, 30cm of crystal snowfall in the past 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: -4C, mild wind, 40cm of fresh, snowdrift development and 30m visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -6C, strong wind, 30cm of new snow and notable development of snowdrifts. Snowpack 140cm at 1000m. Hirafu 1000m: -5C, 30cm of fresh and light development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNE9m/s, Kamui cape N5m/s, 1010hPa and 1.4m waves. Typical heavy snowfall (30-40cm) of an approaching low-pressure system. The wind in high-altitude is strong, but mild around 800m and the snowdrifts development is relatively slim. Visibility is poor. This thick new layer of low-pressure generated snow often collapses even without notable weak layers. Beware of slides in steep knolls and cornice slopes. Depending on the chairlifts operation, Gate 5 (Hanazono) and 6 (Moiwa) will open today. Seek for the ski patrol’s advice before stepping out of bounds. Carrying avalanche gear is strongly recommended. Many hazards are present in the out of bounds area. Always remain prudent and think safety first. Always ride one by one and stay away from gully bottom. The snow in the trees is in good shape. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 270cm Base - 120cm Niseko Village: Top - 170cm Base - 120cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 140cm Base - 110cm --- Lifts open for night skiing (planned): Niseko Grand Hirafu Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift. There is no night skiing at the Hanazono area. Niseko Village Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Jumbo Number 1 Quad Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Wednesday 24th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 419cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 26 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 389cm reported on 21 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 364cm Posted on Monday 22nd December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's a really very - very - cold morning here in the Niseko area. My thermometer says -10C. Niseko Village has a low on their report of -16C. The numbers look cold and it sure feels cold too. I bring news of fresh snow on the ground as well with 20cm at my base here and as you can see on the Avalanche Report below, 25-30cm being reported on the mountain. Lower areas could do with that again (and again, sorry for being greedy!) to freshen things up good and proper. Unfortunately, the strong winds are still with us. Not as much as yesterday morning and this morning it's not affecting lifts like it was yesterday. Forecast for the coming few days is slightly less cold and generally cloudy conditions with snow continuing to fall on and off. --- Regular readers of Niseko Now will know that sometimes we look at the snowfall numbers that have been reported in Kutchan Town by the Japan Meteorological Agency. Just for a bit of fun. These are the official data recorded by JMA in Kutchan Town - not on the mountain, which usually gets considerably more snowfall. But as it's a constant that we can compare year to year, it's something that is of interest. Anyway, last season here's the snowfall recorded in early season November 2013: 99cm December 2013: 258cm And here's the same this year: December 2014: 41cm December 2014: 237cm Of course, we were disappointed with November this year, but as you can see with over a week left for December we are only 21cm off the number from last season for the whole month. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Other than a problem with the Family Lift that they hope to get sorted quickly, Hirafu looks to be opening lifts as ppanned - Gondola running at slower speed. Niseko Hanazono: Niseko Hanazono looks set to start the day as planned. Niseko Village: Niseko Village looks set to start the day as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola not operating due to wind conditions. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -11C, 10cm of broken crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -13C, NW20m/s, 30cm of new snow. Annupuri 1150m: -18C, W20m/s, 25cm of fresh. 1000m altitude snowpack 135cm. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW23m/s, Kamui cape WSW19m/s, 1002hPa, 3.1m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient remains steep and the storm is persisting. Cornices and snowdrifts are developing and the avalanche risk is high in leeward knolls and cornice slopes around 700m. Avalanches mostly occur in heavy snowdrift slopes during and just after storms, and become an accident if somebody is involved in it. Do not duck ropes to seek fresh lines. One track left under the rope will lead many others to follow it and increase the chances of accidents to happen. Out of bounds access from the resort is still restricted. Avalanche risk is also high everywhere else in the Niseko backcountry area. Carefully chose your tour route. Snowdrift slabs take some time to stabilize after the storm settles down. Precaution is key to safety. Beautiful conditions in the trees today. Beware of frostbite. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 230cm Base - 95cm Niseko Village: Top - 150cm Base - 110cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 135cm Base - 110cm --- Lifts open for night skiing (planned): Niseko Grand Hirafu Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift. There is no night skiing at the Hanazono area. Niseko Village Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Jumbo Number 1 Quad Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 22nd December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 364cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 24 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 334cm 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 45cm Snowfall at base this season 484cm Posted on Friday 26th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Huge amounts of fresh snowfall to report this morning as it keeps on coming down. 40-45cm outside my place, resorts on the mountain report that and more. 60cm on the upper areas of the mountain this morning? Very probably. Amazing. When Niseko is firing on all cylinders like it is now, it's really impressive stuff. Being here for a long time doesn't damper that feeling at all. Snow to ease off maybe later on in the day today or early tomorrow and there might even be some sunshine over the weekend. Still looks like it will warm up slightly through early in the week before more significant snow arrives. I think some people would enjoy a bit of a break from the full-on conditions and get the chance to see the beauty of the areas and not just of the snow on the slopes. Not for long though of course; we always want more snow round the corner. King Number 4 lift and Dynamic Course opening at Niseko Grand Hirafu today meaning that all of the courses at that resort area are now open. Similarly, with the Panorama Course opening at Niseko Annupuri, all of the courses there are open too. Lots of folk lined up for the opening of the lifts this morning eager to get out and enjoy the snow. Who would blame them! It has certainly been a very merry Christmas for people lucky to be here at the moment. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: King Number 4 lift to start moving today. Dynamic course now open meaning that all of the courses at Hirafu are now open. Niseko Hanazono: All Niseko Hanazono lifts will be open as normal. Niseko Village: Top Wonderland Chair now open, resort open as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Panorama Course open from today - meaning that all of the courses at Annupuri are now open. All lifts open too. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -8C, 40cm of overnight snowfall. Moiwa 600m: -10C, 50cm of light crystal snow on the course. Annupuri 1150m: -13C, 60cm of fresh. Hirafu 1000m: -10C, 60cm of fresh. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW19m/s, Kamui cape NNE11m/s, 1010hPa, 2.0m waves. Heavy dump of light snow generated by a typical winter weather pattern. The atmospheric pressure gradient is shelving and the snowdrifts are yet to largely develop under 900m altitude, however drastic development of snowdrifts are forecasted as the storm picks up. High altitude open slopes should be avoided today. The avalanche hazard in Higashi-One (East ridge) and Osawa 1000m line remains high. The snow in the trees is good, but too deep. Better stay close to the courses today. Gates 5 & 6 are scheduled to open. An access route between Moiwa and Annupuri has been made yesterday, however this is a connecting route for rescue purposes and will not be groomed. This route will be inaccessible when gate 6 is closed as it is outside the resort boundary. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Please beware of overspeeding and loosing control on the courses. Snowcats have been having difficulties grooming due to the heavy amount of snowfall. Have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 300cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 190cm Base - 130cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 165cm Base - 130cm --- Lifts open for night skiing (planned): Niseko Grand Hirafu Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift (There is no night skiing at the Hanazono area) Niseko Village Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Jumbo Number 1 Quad Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 26th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 484cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 28 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 454cm reported on 23 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 2cm Snowfall at base this season 344cm Posted on Sunday 21st December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Rain! Noooooo! We don't like rain, oh no. Sadly in the afternoon yesterday we got served up with rain which continued to fall overnight as well. Not the best introduction to Niseko for the many people who are probably here for their first taste of the resort that's for sure. Happily this morning temperatures have dropped somewhat and it has been snowing... quite heavily in fact as I write this. As well as the snow though, some strong winds as well this morning. Take into account the less than perfect conditions due to the rain; the wind; the limited visibility and only a limited number of lifts and courses open this morning; and it all adds up to not one of the best days. Time for a soak in the onsen perhaps. The good news is that now it has turned into snow it should continue today and tomorrow as well. In fact, it's generally snowy conditions forecast through the coming week, so conditions should hopefully improve quite quickly. From today I have changed things up a bit in the report, and will note any resort-specific news in the area below if there is any that I can find to share. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Just the low Holiday Number 1 lift and Ace Number 1 Pair lift moving at the moment due to weather conditions. Niseko Hanazono: Operation of all 3 lifts temporarily suspended. Niseko Village: The Niseko Gondola is not moving due to the winds. Community, Banzai and Morino Chair lifts open as normal. Niseko Annupuri: All lifts on hold as of 8:30am due to strong wind conditions. They will open if and when conditions improve. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -4C, heavy snowfall from before 6am. Moiwa 600m: westerly gusts, poor visibility and snowdrifts starting to develop. Annupuri 1150m: -12C, W15-25m/s with snowfall. Icy and dodgy condition from 400m altitude on down. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW19m/s at 5:25am, Kamui cape WSW21m/s, 999hPa and 1.8m waves. Westerly 25m/s winds are forecasted at 1500m level at noon. The temperature dropped and a westerly storm started as the cold front passed around midnight. A 20-30m/s wind with heavy snowfall is blowing above 600m from 5am, snowdrifts will develop drastically and the avalanche hazard will rise accordingly. A track across the rope of closed gate 6, heading to Mikaeri area was found yesterday. Keep in mind that out of bounds access from ski resorts is still officially prohibited in Japan. Niseko’s gate system is quite unique and is actually still an experimental grey area. Respecting the Niseko Rules is the only way to protect the freedom to step out of bounds, as well as keeping the minimum safety of all guests. Many seem to understand the situation and remain patient until the gates open, but it is a shame to see that some still disregards a simple rule. "Freedom" is not easy to obtain and should not be misperceived. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 210cm Base - 90cm Niseko Village: Top - 150cm Base - 100cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 135cm Base - 110cm --- Lifts open for night skiing (planned): Niseko Grand Hirafu Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift. There is no night skiing at the Hanazono area. Niseko Village Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Jumbo Number 1 Quad Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Sunday 21st December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 344cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 23 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 314cm 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 439cm Posted on Thursday 25th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Top lifts open for Christmas! More fresh snow. 20+cm outside my place, resort areas reporting 30cm. Yes, it's very good morning from Niseko and... Merry Christmas! A cold Christmas morning - no wonder Santa has that big bushy beard - and not so much wind this morning. It's still snowing though only lightly, with more due during the day today and tomorrow. So, top lifts open at Niseko Grand Hirafu (well, the Ace Number 4), Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri. All should be moving this morning with Gate 4 also scheduled to be open today as well. Looking ahead, from Saturday we can expect the snow clouds to clear and maybe we'll have some sunny conditions to enjoy. Looks like a milder spell from the weekend too, hopefully it won't warm up too much. Have a great day everyone and all the best for the holidays wherever you are reading this from in the world. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: From today, the Ace Number 4 Pair lift will be open. Original plan was for King Number 4 lift to open but due to the 'discouraging' (!?) condition of the Dynamic Course, they've changed that plan. Curious to know more on that! Anyway, the Large Course and Miharashi Courses are now open. Dynamic Course aside, not 'fully open', I do believe. Niseko Hanazono: All Niseko Hanazono lifts will be open as normal. Niseko Village: Top Wonderland Chair now open - opened yesterday from around 10am actually. Niseko Annupuri: Top Jumbo Number 4 lift now open. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -8C, 30cm of snowfall in 12 hours, calm morning. Moiwa 800m: -12C, 20cm of fresh snow and development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -13C, 30cm and development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -13C, 20cm of fresh snow and development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW12m/s, Kamui cape WSW10m/s, 1008hPa, 1.2m waves. A mild winter weather pattern with a moderate westerly wind is prevailing, making snowdrifts develop in areas above 800m. The snow under treeline is in good shape, but 40cm slides from 23rd depth hoar layer are to be expected in steep slopes along the valley. Gate 4 is scheduled to open today at a lower elevation, however avalanche hazard still remains high in NE areas of 1000m altitude. High-traversing all the way to the slopes under Higashi-One (east ridge) cornices is strongly discouraged. Listen to the ski patrol’s instructions and always use gates to step out of bounds. Carrying and knowing how to use avalanche gears (beacon, probe & shovel) is strongly advised. The visibility is fluctuating. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 280cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village: Top - 170cm Base - 120cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 150cm Base - 120cm --- Lifts open for night skiing (planned): Niseko Grand Hirafu Ace Family Pair lift, Ace Number 2 Center Four lift, Hirafu Gondola, Holiday Number 1 Pair lift (There is no night skiing at the Hanazono area) Niseko Village Community Chair and Banzai Chair Niseko Annupuri Jumbo Number 1 Quad Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Thursday 25th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 439cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 27 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 409cm reported on 22 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com