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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 509cm Posted on Saturday 27th December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here The snow continued once again through the day yesterday with a few people asking me 'does it ever stop'? It has actually stopped this morning after continuing yesterday. Not much extra overnight but leaving us with another 25-30cm or so since my report yesterday morning. Isn't it just great when we can report that much snow so often. Let's not get complacent though, even Niseko can go through dry periods. Happily we don't seem to be up for one of them at the moment. OK so back to this morning. Temperatures remain low this morning. It's fairly calm here in the village area, though perhaps some gusty winds up on the mountain. Resorts look likely to be open as planned this morning though... although looks like there's a few lifts running at reduced speed and the top Niseko Village Wonderland lift delayed? There's a bit of blue sky opening up now and the sun even peeking through just now in places. Oh no, hold on, hidden again by cloud.... so, changeable conditions as you can see early this morning. Clearing skies expected today and tomorrow, along with a slightly milder spell tomorrow and into early next week before we get back to more snow. Enjoy the weekend. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned, top lift Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned, though top lift operating at reduced speed. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned. Delayed opening for top Wonderland lift? Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -7C, 20cm of fresh snow and calm morning. Moiwa 800m: -10C, NW10m/s, 30cm snowfall with moderate snowdrift development and good visibility. Annupuri 1150m: -11C, W10m/s with snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -12C, 20cm of new snow in 12 hours. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW9m/s, Kamui cape WSW9m/s, 1020hPa and 1.2m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is small and the mountain is calm. Cornices and snowdrifts are slowly developing. Gate 4 (Fujiwara) is scheduled to open at a lower elevation. Beware; the avalanche risk still remains high in the Higashi-One (East ridge) cornice area due to heavy snowfall in a short period of time. Gate 6 & 10 will open from the morning. Listen to the ski patrol’s instructions at the gates before stepping out of bounds. The creeks at the bottom of the valleys aren’t fully buried yet; be careful not to fall. The snow in the treeruns is in great condition. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 310cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village: Top - 200cm Base - 140cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 185cm Base - 150cm --- 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 Saturday 27th December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 509cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 29 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 479cm reported on 24 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 549cm Posted on Wednesday 31st December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello and good morning from Niseko on this New Years Eve morning. I was very much hoping that I wouldn't have to report 'no new snowfall' again today, and I am very happy that I don't have to. Yes, Niseko bounces back in style as it so often does - I have the best part of 40cm of fresh snow to report this morning. No doubt many of the folk here in Niseko will already be out lining up for the lifts! It's suitably cold and the snow is suitably light and fluffy. Oh yes. What better way to slide out the year! It should be a good day. So that's it for 2015. We have easily 'beaten' the Kutchan snowfall number for December 2013 - currently 373cm for the month compared with 258cm last year - and that number is actually more than we have had for quite a few years in the month of December. With some more snowfall due today and overnight there'll be some added on to that as well. Let us hope that the rest of the season continues in a similar way. New Years Day is forecast to be cold and snowy. Enjoy the last day of the season and if you are in Niseko the events going on here. I will see you on the other side. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned, though King Number 3 lift running at reduced speed. Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned, though top lift running at reduced speed. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base: -5C, 30cm of snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NW10m/s, -7C, 40cm of fresh. Annupuri 1150m: W8m/s, -7C, 40cm snowfall. Hirafu 1000m:W5m/s, -7C, 45cm snowfall. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW11m/s, Kamui cape NW8m/s, 1004hPa, 0.9m waves. Thick snowclouds flowed in early morning and generated heavy snowfall. The wind is relatively calm and there are no notable developments of snowdrifts. A distinct layer (Dec 28th) is present in the snowpack, but looking at the snowfall transition and other observations, the avalanche risk remains low. All gates except no.2, 3 and 9 will open today. Listen to the ski patrols’ advice before stepping out of the gates. Always use gates and never duck ropes. Visibility is bad, the surface is hard to read and the powder is deep. Carelessly following other people’s tracks could end up in unexpected results. Better stay close to the courses. Beware of falling head first and getting suffocated. There never is 100% safety in the mountains. Always think safety first. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 290cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village: Top - 210cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 200cm Base - 150cm --- 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 31st December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 549cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 30 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 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 394cm Posted on Tuesday 23rd December 2014 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Lots of light fresh snow to report again this morning from the Niseko area - 30cm outside my place - which should make for excellent conditions today. It's not quite as cold this morning as it was yesterday, but still right down there in negative numbers and -6 degrees here in the village base area. It's not quite as windy either, and lifts should be less affected this morning. Yesterday as conditions improved slightly most of the lifts seemed to be operating. The peak lifts and gates are of course still not open. No doubt there's a lot of people keeping their eyes on that situation and I can imagine the rush that will happen when they do open. Be sure to check out the Avalanche Report below for more information. Niseko continues to getting busier. Christmas might not be a major holiday for Japanese, but it is of course with lots of other folk and many want to spend their holidays here in Niseko. As you would. It's worth adding that 23rd December (ie. today) is actually a national holiday here in Japan. It's the Emperors Birthday, so... happy birthday! --- 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. Niseko Hanazono: Niseko Hanazono looks set to start the day as planned. Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola running at reduced speed. Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola not operating due to wind conditions. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa base:-10C, 25cm of crystal snow. Moiwa 600m: -13C, 30cm of fresh in 12 hours. Annupuri 1150m: -14C, W16m/s, 25cm of fresh. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW15m/s, Kamui cape W11m/s, 1007hPa and 2.6m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is shelving, snowdrift development around 800m is slowing down and the snowpack is stabilizing. However, avalanche risk is still high especially in leeward 1100m slopes. The avalanche control in Mizuno no sawa (Niseko Village) has started yesterday and a 40cm slab avalanche from Dec 20th layer running all the way down to the bottom has been reported from the ski patrol. Stay away from south facing strictly off-limits areas. Peak lifts are scheduled to open as the wind calms down, but peak gates are yet to open. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Never duck ropes to step out of bounds. The snow in the trees is even better than yesterday, but beware of branches and bushes lurking just underneath the surface. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 250cm Base - 105cm Niseko Village: Top - 160cm 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 Tuesday 23rd December 2014 Total snowfall at base so far 394cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 25 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 364cm reported on 20 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 564cm Posted on Thursday 1st January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Akemashite omedeto gozaimasu! And a Happy New Year to all Niseko Now and SnowJapan readers. Here's to a powder filled, fun and safe 2015. We may be into January already but there's over 4 months left of the Niseko season which of course stretches into May, so plenty to enjoy. Back to today. It is a cold New Years morning but calm and... the sun is out and there's quite a bit of blue sky above the area. Lovely morning. 15cm of fresh snow here outside my place, 20-25cm on mountain. As is so often the case, even with the fine early morning conditions, snow clouds shouldn't be too far away over the next few days. Forecast clearer conditions for the late weekend and into Monday. It might just be me but it seems that it's quieter than usual for just before 9am. I wonder why that might be! There were lots of parties and celebrations going on last night of course, I think that some people might be taking things a bit slow first thing! For those who like getting up early and tracks before anyone else, Annupuri First Run from today - more on that below. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Annupuri First Run' is available from today until Sunday and then also on the 11th and 12th January. For 1000 yen, you can get to ride the Gondola from 7:20-8:20am. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 20cm snowfall in 12 hours, calm. Moiwa 800m: NW8m/s, 25cm of fresh snow with development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW10m/s, -10C with snowdrifts development. Hirafu 1000m: mild wind, -10C, 20cm snowfall. Coastal data: Benkei cape SSE4m/s, Kamui cape ENE4m/s, 997hPa and 0.7m waves. The isobars are spread out and the weather is calm. Snowdrifts are developing slowly above 800m and the general avalanche risk is relatively low, except around 1100m cornice and knoll terrains where stabilization of the newly formed snowdrifts is being delayed. Hazards of surface slab slides up to 80cm thickness and 50m long is still to be highly considered. The snow in the trees is in good shape. All gates except for gate 2 & 3 will open from the morning. Beware of sudden weather changes. Have you switched your avalanche transceiver on? Peak gates 2 & 3 should open after the 3rd. Have a great New Year 2015. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 290cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 210cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 200cm Base - 150cm --- 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 1st January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 564cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 31 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 15cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 589cm Posted on Friday 2nd January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Niseko and I have another 25cm of snow to report for you. Just been and moved it out from the front of my place. Always a pleasure! Take a look at the Avalanche report too - Moiwa 30cm; Annupuri 50cm; Hirafu 30cm. So yes, tracks will have been filled in nicely and reset... and it's time to get out once again. Lots of cloud around still but there's also some sky on show again and as I type this the sun is putting in an appearance too. The forecast though is for snowfall at times through today and tomorrow. Generally clearer conditions are expected on Monday, along with 'not as cold' temperatures, followed by the next delivery of snow to come starting later on Tuesday. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Annupuri First Run' is available from until Sunday and then also on the 11th and 12th January. For 1000 yen, you can get to ride the Gondola from 7:20-8:20am. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base: -6C, 20cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: -9C, 30cm snowfall and moderate development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m:W10m/s, -12C, 50cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Hirafu 1000m: -13C, 30cm snowfall and heavy development of snowdrifts in 1200m NE area. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW12m/s, Kamui cape NW8m/s, 1004hPa, 1.8m waves. Typical winter weather pattern is generating a moderate snowfall above 800m treeline and snowdrifts are slowly developing. Wide 40cm surface slab avalanches are likely to occur in 40°open slopes above 1000m altitude. Gates 2 & 3 are scheduled to open from today but the time yet to be determined. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Moderate to high avalanche hazards in Kozan no Sawa sidewalls (Backbowl), Higashi-One cornice slope and Osawa cornice slopes. These faces should be left untouched until the weather settles down and the snowpack stabilizes. The snow in the trees has been reset and in excellent condition. Cutting across knolls and/or traversing underneath cornices is total foolishness. Avalanches strikes from above; stay away from gullies and bottom of valleys. It is strongly recommended to carry an avalanche beacon. They are not the ultimate solution, but may save your life. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 310cm Base - 180cm Niseko Village: Top - 220cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 210cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 2nd January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 589cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 32 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 40cm 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 599cm Posted on Saturday 3rd January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It was a great day out yesterday with the sun doing it's thing along with the fine snow conditions to enjoy. This morning I have another 10cm of fresh snowfall to report and it is still snowing now. Not a huge amount expected today, more the chance of it getting less during the day with just cloud expected tomorrow and then sunshine on Monday. Currently -4 degrees but still much colder higher up. From tomorrow we are still told to expect somewhat warmer (or should I say not as cold) temperatures. It looks fairly calm out there from what I can see, but the top King lift at Hirafu that is being affected by windy conditions - but all other areas seem to be open as planned. --- There's a curious bit of news from the Niseko Grand Hirafu area. Some of you may have noticed that the following lifts haven't been joining in the party yet this season: - King Number 1 pair lift - King Number 2 quad lift - Ace Number 4 pair lift The reason being stated seems to be along the lines there not being enough staff to operate the lifts safetly. Which seems odd. But anyway there's no date given for when they might get moving, if indeed they will. This doesn't mean of course that any courses are closed, but it would be good to have the lift capacity. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Hanazono: Top King Nunber 4 lift delayed due to strong winds. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Annupuri First Run' is available until Sunday and then also on the 11th and 12th January. For 1000 yen, you can get to ride the Gondola from 7:20-8:20am. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base: -8C, 15cm of broken crystal snow in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NW15m/s, -12C, 25cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Annupuri 1150m: -12C, 25cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Hirafu 1000m: -12C, 25cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW17m/s, Kamui cape W12m/s, 1005hPa, 1.4m waves. The isobars are momentarily narrowing and intermittent stormy condition is continuing. Strong northerly wind with heavy snowfall persists above 1200m, generating heavy and unstable development of snowdrifts. Peak gates 2 & 3 opening is yet to be decided. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Adjust your touring plans according to the weather conditions. Entering Osawa (Annupuri bowl) by crossing the rope below gate 2 is strictly prohibited. Better not risk your lift pass. The freedom of out of bounds riding in Niseko is barely protected by having everyone respecting the Rules. The snow in the trees has been reset, but is wind affected and a bit heavy. It is strongly advised not to stimulate knolls, cornice slopes and steep gully side-slopes below 800m. Thin surface slab avalanches are highly likely to occur. Most of avalanche related accidents happens in leeward snowdrift-loaded slopes during bad weather. Be prudent and have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 300cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 220cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 220cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Saturday 3rd January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 599cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 33 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 50cm reported on 3 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 632cm Posted on Wednesday 7th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's something of a ride at the moment here. Yesterday we were treated to a healthy dose of rain and warmer conditions in the area. Not nice conditions at all. Happily we don't get many of those days here in Niseko, but I can't remember a season when we didn't get at least a few. Just got to get through it and look forward to the snow on the other side... With that behind us, let me report the good stuff. The rain turned to snow and this morning there's about 15cm of fresh snow on the ground. (Well, when it hasn't been blown away anyway). It's back to being really cold as well, and it does feel very cold out there. The strong winds that are still with us this morning adding to that cold feeling. Wind chill factor alert! Unfortunately the strong winds are preventing resorts from fully opening and in the case of Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Hanazono areas all of the lifts closed, so there's limited choice this morning for those willing to brave the elements. Latest details at the time of writing this report shown below. The amount of snow we got overnight won't be enough to cover some icy conditions in places, but the forecasts give us continued snowfall through into next weekend and beyond so it looks like there is plenty of refresh on the way. If it isn't snowing, it shouldn't be far off. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: King Number 3 Triple, King Number 4, Ace Number 3 and Swinging Monkey lifts on hold due to wind. Hirafu Gondola is moving. 'Early Morning' lift available from 10th January to 1st February (for 500 yen, you can ride Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: All lifts at Hanazono on hold due to strong winds. Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola and Wonderland Chair not operating due to wind. Niseko Annupuri: All lifts at Annupuri on hold due to strong winds. 'Annupuri First Run' available on 11th and 12th January (for 1000 yen, you can ride the Gondola from 7:20-8:20am). --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -10C, 15cm of snowfall in 12 hours with developing snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: -13C, NW15m/s, snowstorm and developing snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -18C, stormy and notable development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -16C, 20cm snowfall and growing snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW25m/s, Kamui cape WSW20m/s, 988hPa, 3.5m waves. The ocean and the mountain range are in a stormy condition under a wintry atmospheric pressure pattern. The high wind above 1000m is sweeping the new snow away and making the surface freeze. Thick snowdrifts are developing in leeward slopes below 1000m. According to observations and snowfall transition, the avalanche risk is extreme today. 80cm or bigger surface slab slides from Jan 6th (passing low-pressure system snowfall) layer are to be expected in 900m Annupuri bowl (Osawa) cornice slopes, Backbowl (Kozan no Sawa), Higashi-One and Mikaeri sawa. Peak gates 2 & 3 as well as gate 1 & 4 will be kept closed all day. Avalanche risk is high in all elevations today. Stay away from steep slopes, cornices and knoll terrains. Keep in mind that many avalanche accidents occur during and just after storms. Better not overestimate your skills and knowledge, you can never be too careful in the mountains. Always stay prudent and humble. The conditions will get better soon. The snow in the tree-runs is wind-affected and heavy. Beware of frostbites and have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 300cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 220cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 220cm Base - 160cm --- 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 7th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 632cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 36 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 83cm 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 20cm Snowfall at base this season 652cm Posted on Thursday 8th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It was a wild day yesterday. I wonder what today has in store. Very strong winds were messing about with everything yesterday - and not just on the slopes. There was only a limited choice for people who felt the need to be out in it! Initial impression is that today is going to be better... still windy, but not as mad as yesterday. There's new snow as well but I'm having real difficulty putting a number on it due to all that wind blowing it about everywhere. 10cm, 20cm, 30cm... one of them! Even the Niseko Avalanche Report below seems to be shying away from actual numbers this morning with lots of mention of snowdrifts. OK as I need to post a number and taking a look outside my place the number I'm going for is around 20cm, I think that is fair. No doubt more higher up of course, I am hearing from a resort guy of 30cm on upper areas. If you're in Niseko reading this you might well have a different take. I might update that later after a bit more time outside. Forecast is for snowfall to continue into next week - if it stops it won't be far away from starting up again. Refresh. Nice. But... less wind please! Take care out there. Safety first, remember. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: King Number 3 Triple, King Number 4, Ace Number 3 and Swinging Monkey lifts on hold due to wind. Hirafu Gondola is moving. 'Early Morning' lift available from 10th January to 1st February (for 500 yen, you can ride Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Hanazono Number 2 and Number 3 lifts on hold. Niseko Village: Looks like all planned lifts are moving, or will be. Niseko Annupuri: Top Jumbo Number 4 lift suspended due to wind but other lifts plan to be moving. 'Annupuri First Run' available on 11th and 12th January (for 1000 yen, you can ride the Gondola from 7:20-8:20am). --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, large development of packed snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: NE12m/s, -7C, large developments of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -7C, NW15m/s and developing snowdirfts. Hirafu 1000m: NE10m/s, -7C, developing snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNE12m/s, Kamui cape NNE12m/s, 1002hPa, 5.8m waves. The strong wind and heavy snowfall generated large development of snowdrifts in and out of bounds. The estimated accumulation of snowdrifts in leeward slopes around 800m altitude grew above 200cm. The rapidly developed snowdrifts are heavy and extremely unstable, easily collapsing with a slight stimulation. The avalanche hazard is extremely high today. Hazardous condition is seen to persist until tomorrow even after the wind calms down. Do not carelessly drop into knolls, cornice slopes or other steep faces. Better not underestimate the danger of avalanches. The snowpack will stabilize soon. A thick layer of heavy and packed highly wind-affected snow is blanketing the treeruns. This type of snow is catchy and tricky to ski. Be careful and remain in control. It is not sufficient to just observe the snowpack to evaluate the risks, especially during a storm. More attention should be paid to the snowfall & weather transition. Keep in mind that a lot of the avalanche accidents occur during and just after storms. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 320cm Base - 145cm Niseko Village: Top - 240cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 220cm Base - 160cm --- 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 8th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 652cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 37 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 103cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 617cm Posted on Monday 5th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here No snow overnight but a few cm since the report I posted yesterday, so I'll dutifully log those cm in! It's a cloudy-overcast kind of morning here in Niseko with some forecasts giving us a chance of seeing the sun and clearer skies later in the day. While it's a fairly cold start to the day it should be warming up slightly today and tomorrow before temperatures going back down again later Tuesday. Snowfall is due back over Niseko later on tomorrow as well and we should be seeing daily refreshes through until the end of the week at least. Now that the New Year holidays are over for most people we can maybe get into a more normal routine --- not that it makes that much of a difference here with all of the peak months very popular and busy. Final snowfall in Kutchan statistic for last month to compare with the last few seasons: December 2014 - 387cm December 2013 - 258cm December 2012 - 306cm December 2011 - 349cm December 2010 - 201cm Last season January saw 317cm of snowfall in Kutchan, so there's the target! --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Early Morning' lift available from 10th January to 1st February (for 500 yen, you can ride Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned. Sorry in my report yesterday I put the Hirafu lift news in this bit under Hanazono by mistake. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Annupuri First Run' available on 11th and 12th January (for 1000 yen, you can ride the Gondola from 7:20-8:20am). --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base: -4C, no snowfall. Moiwa 800m: NW10m/s, no snowfall. Annupuri 1150m: NW5m/s, -9C, light snowfall with small development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -9C, no snowfall. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW10m/s, Kamui cape NW4m/s, 1015hPa, 0.4m waves. A high-pressure system is flowing in and the ocean and the mountains are in a calm condition. A moderate wind is still blowing at the peak, however the general avalanche risk is relatively low. Peak gates will open as soon as they’re ready. Seek some advice from the ski patrol before stepping out of the gates. Many people went out of bounds yesterday, and 2 cases of accidents have been reported. One fractured leg and one lost his way. Better not overestimate your skill and knowledge; always think safety first and enjoy within your limits. Following unknown people’s tracks will not necessarily take you safely back on track. You may end up astray in the middle of nowhere. There are no buses coming back from Goshiki Onsen. We make this information in hope to avoid people from encountering accidents. Having everybody respect the Rules is the only way to protect the freedom of out of bounds riding in Niseko. Strictly off-limits areas are restricted for good reasons, do not duck ropes to seek fresh tracks in there. The groomers are in a fantastic conditions today. Beware of crashes. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 310cm Base - 165cm Niseko Village: Top - 220cm Base - 150cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 220cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 5th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 617cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 35 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 68cm 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