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

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 614cm Posted on Sunday 4th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here 15-20cm of beautiful light new snow this morning outside my place and about that being reported by the resorts as well so another very nice new layer of fresh to play in. Oh we are spoilt! It's still snowing now but expected to stop today perhaps sometime this morning. Sunshine and blue skies are forecast for tomorrow so charge up those cameras for a chance of scenery pics. It won't last long though as we should be back to snow on Tuesday. --- The 'Early Morning' lift operations will begin at Niseko Grand Hirafu from Saturday 10th January, through to Sunday 1st February. It's basically 20 minutes of extra lift ticket time from 8am. The Ace Quad Lift Number 2 operates and the courses open are Super, Furiko, Green, Alpen and Sennoki. If you want that extra 20 minutes and think it's worth the 500 yen that it costs for a special ticket, then head over to the lift ticket counter at .Base from 7:45am on the days it's open. --- 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 slightly due to having to move snow. Not the worst problem to have! Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Annupuri First Run' is available until today 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, 15cm of snowfall in 12 hours, no snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: westerly 8m/s, -9C, 20cm of snowfall and snowdrifts development up to 100cm. Annupuri 1150m: westerly breeze, -10C, 20cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Hirafu 1000m: -8C, 20cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW14m/s, Kamui cape WSW9m/s, 1010hPa, 1.7m waves. The isobars are spacing out and snowclouds are fading. Peak gates 2 & 3 are scheduled to open today. Heavy snowdrifts have developed in leeward slopes above 800m in the last 24 hours. The newly formed snowdrifts are still very unstable and avalanche risk is high, especially around 1000m areas in the Backbowl, Osawa and Higashi-One. These steep faces should be left untouched today. Better not underestimate the hazards of out of bounds (backcountry) riding, the consequences can be more severe than you think. Ask the ski patrol’s advice before stepping out and always think safety first. Do not cross boundary ropes, always use the access gates. The snow in the trees has been reset and is in splendid condition. Have you switched your beacon on? Carrying avalanche gear may not be mandatory, but is strongly recommended to do so. Have a great day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 320cm Base - 170cm 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 Sunday 4th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 614cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 34 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 65cm reported on 4 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 655cm Posted on Friday 9th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's just a few cm of fresh outside my place this morning, though as you can see on the Avalanche Report the resort areas are coming back with larger amounts of fresh out there. The forecast is for continued light snowfall from time to time through the day today and yes, well, snow clouds still likely to be closeby through into early next week. Happily there is less wind now and it doesn't feel as cold this morning. Resorts look set to be opening as normal from the get go this morning. That's the message coming in as I am writing this anyway. Look at all those folk lining up for the Ace Number 2 Center Four lift to open (image below). Go on, give us a wave! (I'm only jealous). There are early morning special lift openings this weekend at Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri - details of which I have put in the area below for each resort. Each of them starts at a different time and have different extra charges for the privilege. I think they call this a 'premium service'. Anyway, it's there if you want to take advantage of it. Let's choosing. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as normal this morning. 'Early Morning' lift available from 10th January to 1st February (for 500 yen, you can ride Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8:00am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as normal this morning. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as normal this morning. Early morning Gondola on 11th, 12th and 13th January (for 1030 yen, you can ride the Gondola from 7:30am-8:30am) Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as normal this morning. '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: -3C, 15cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 600m: W10m/s, moderate development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW12m/s, -6C, 20cm snowfall. Hirafu 1000m: -8C, 20cm snowfall, snowy and windy with development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNE11m/s, Kamui cape NNE7m/s, 1007hPa, 3.2m waves. The wind is stagnating around 12m/s northerly and continually making the snowdrifts develop. These newly formed snowdrifts in the last 48 hours are starting to stabilize, however the avalanche risk around 1000m Osawa (annupuri bowl) cornice slopes, Kozan no Sawa (Backbowl) sidewalls and Higashi-One cornice slopes remains high today. A slide triggered from a thick snowdrift area would lead to a larger avalanche running fast and a long distance. Caution is required in open steep slopes and gullies. Accidents can be avoided by being prudent. Gates 2, 3 & 4 will be closed all day. Do not duck ropes to access the out of bounds areas. Strictly off-limits areas of Haru no Taki and Yu no Sawa must be left untouched. The snow in the tree is fast and in good condition. Beware of hitting trees. Moiwa gates 6 & 10 will be closed due to chair-lift maintenance. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 310cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village: Top - 240cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 225cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 9th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 655cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 38 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 106cm reported on 8 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 20cm Snowfall at base this season 711cm Posted on Monday 12th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Light snow falling outside now and there's another 20cm of snow outside. The Avalanche Report below says 30cm in Hirafu at 1000m. So another fine delivery of snow. It doesn't feel too windy to me here, but then again I'm right down in the village. Higher up obviously there's some wind action going on and it's affecting our fun potential this morning again unfortunately... Yes, weather conditions this morning are preventing the top lifts at all of the four resort areas from opening, so if you want to get between places this morning it's shuttle bus time folks. Probably best just to stick to one area. Snow and wind are expected pretty much for the day today but it should ease off by opening tomorrow. A break from the snow and some sunshine is a real possibility tomorrow and particularly Wednesday with temperatures getting a little milder as well. Might just be me but it doesn't feel quite as cold this morning - my thermometer says -2 now. When I started putting this report together a bit earlier it was just snowing lightly. It's coming down a bit heavier just now. --- I was talking with a friend yesterday about how long the season is here in Niseko, until early May. So there's just 112 or so more daily morning reports left to put together this season... that thought kept me awake a bit last night! I hope you'll all stay with me through until the end. Though please be warned that we don't get 20cm of fresh snow every day in April. Spring skiing does have it's appeal though, just a different kind. For those interested in previous seasons, you can check out the Niseko Now archives going back quite a few years. Find them at the bottom of this (and every Niseko Now) page. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: King Number 3, King Number 4, Ace Number 4 lifts not moving due to weather conditions. 'Early Morning' lift available daily until 1st February (for 500 yen, Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Top Hanazono Number 3 lift not moving due to weather conditions. Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland Chair lift not moving due to weather conditions. 'Early Morning Gondola' available Saturdays and Sundays until February 8th (for 1300 yen, Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am). Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola running at slower speed right now and the top Jumbo Number 4 lift temporarily suspended. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -3C, 20cm snowfall in 12 hours, no development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: -5C, N15m/s, 20cm fresh snow and 50cm of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -6C, N13m/s, large development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: -5C, NE15m/s, 30cm snowfall with development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape ENE7m/s, Kamui cape SE3m/s, 1012hPa, 3.4m waves. A small low-pressure system is passing and warm air is flowing in. The new snow is humid and snowdrifts have developed in various areas. A northerly wind is forecasted to pick up before noon and the avalanche risk will rise accordingly. Looking at the snowfall transition and other observations, potential trigger layer will be the low-pressure snowfall layer of Jan 11th. Gates 2 & 3 will be kept closed. 40cm surface slab avalanches are likely to occur in Osawa cornice slopes, Higashi-One area in the afternoon. Better not venture too far away from the resort today. It is strictly restricted to duck the ropes to access the out of bounds areas. One track under the rope will lead many others to do the same and raise the odds for accidents to happen. Please respect the Niseko Rules. Great snow can be found in the treeruns. The visibility will turn bad during the day, please beware of hitting trees. Have a safe day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 360cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 230cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 12th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 711cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 41 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 162cm reported on 11 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 30cm Snowfall at base this season 685cm Posted on Saturday 10th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. And a very good morning it most certainly is. Close on 30cm of light fresh snow in places outside my place this morning just in time for first lifts, so just imagine how much there must be higher up. It's actually rather calm as well this morning, or it looks like it is anyway. Mostly cloudy and light snow at times forecast for the day, though I can see some blue now as well. It was snowing lightly when I started putting the report together, but isn't now. Can't make it's mind up! Similar conditions are forecast for tomorrow with a good chance of sunny and clearer skies for a few days from Tuesday. Thankfully all of the resorts are opening as planned this morning. Well, apart from the Gondola at Niseko Village having some kind of hiccup preventing it from it's first 'early morning' gig this morning. Other than that though it's open as normal. As I think I mentioned before it's a long weekend in Japan with Monday being the 'Coming of Age Day' national holiday. So there'll be a lot of people about, but with the conditions being as fantastic as they very probably are this morning I would imagine there'll be lots of happy people around. I hope you can have an extremely fun weekend - wherever you are! --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. 'Early Morning' lift available from today 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 this morning. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. Except... for the early morning Gondola, doh! - some kind of mechanical issue preventing that from happening today, though it's over by the time this gets posted anyway. (Sorry!) Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Annupuri First Run' available 11th and 12th January (for 1000 yen, you can ride the Gondola from 7:20-8:20am). --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -3C, 20cm of crystal snow in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NNW12m/s, -7C, 30cm snowfall with gradual development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW12-17m/s, -10C, 50cm snowfall with development of snowdrifts up to 100cm. Hirafu ridge N15m/s, -10C, 25cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW12m/s, Kamui cape NNW6m/s, 1005hPa, 1.8m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is shelving and the weather at the ocean and the mountains is settling down. The snowfall amount above 800m altitude reached 30-40cm in the last 12 hours, the snowdrifts are slowly developing and yesterday’s snowpack has stabilized. Today’s general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates will open as soon as they’re ready. Listen to the ski patrol’s instructions before stepping out of the gates. There will be a lot of people in the mountain today, pay attention to other parties. Better stay away from the valley bottom to avoid secondary accidents. The mountains will never be 100% safe. Always remain prudent and think safety first. Niseko community is constantly concerned about your safety. The snow in the treeruns is in fantastic conditions. Have you switched your avalanche transceiver on? Are you carrying safety equipments? Food & drink? --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 230cm Base - 180cm --- 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 10th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 685cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 39 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 136cm 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 6cm Snowfall at base this season 691cm Posted on Sunday 11th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning and hello from Niseko. Guess what? It's snowing! Only light snow now as I look outside the window here, but it was coming down pretty hard just a short while ago. Whatever, I have another 6-7cm of fresh to report. Around -3 degrees, cloudy and foggy outside so generally quite poor visibility this morning I would say on mountain. Make sure you know where you're going. Yesterday was busy out there, and no doubt today will be too, but I imagine the conditions made up for any of that. As I have said before, there's a good reason why Niseko is so wildly popular. Snowfall expected to continue today and tomorrow, easing up by Tuesday when we might get some sun and blue skies. --- This may well have happened before today as I have only just noticed it and I haven't been up to that area for a few days, but anyway it looks like Niseko Grand Hirafu have now found the staff to get the Ace Number 4 lift chugging along which is good to see. If you remember about a week ago it was being reported that due to staff issues they weren't operating. Or something. It was always a bit hazy that. But the important thing is that it's moving now. Perhaps with robot staff! --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. 'Early Morning' lift available daily until 1st February (for 500 yen, Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. 'Early Morning Gondola' available today, tomorrow and on Saturdays and Sundays until February 8th (for 1300 yen, Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am). Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned. 'Annupuri First Run' available today and tomorrow (for 1000 yen, Gondola open from 7:20-8:20am). --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 10cm of crystal snow in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NW12m/s, -8C, 15cm of new snow and development of snowdrifts in Anbetsu area. Annupuri 1150m: NW10m/s, -10C, snowdrifts and crusty surfaces. Hirafu ridge 1250m: W15m/w, -12C, strong gusts from the Backbowl with development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW13m/s, Kamui cape NW8m/s, 1005hPa, 2.0m waves. A moderate north-westerly wind with snowfall is persisting. The main snowclouds are currently drifting away from Niseko area, however snowfall is forecasted to pick up during the day. The cornices above 800m altitude are unstable and likely to collapse anytime. Sunlight is weak, making it hard to see the surface. The deeper snowpack is stable and peak gates are scheduled to open. Many cases of intruders to Haru no Taki is being reported. Please remember that the freedom to ride out of bounds in Niseko is being protected in exchange of having those strictly off-limits areas closed-off. Better acknowledge that entering these strictly off-limits zones is not only neglecting the Rules, but also having a misconception of the true meaning of Freedom. Whether the conditions were safe or not, these actions are simply jeopardizing the freedom of the people that are true to the Rules. Infringers will loose their right to use the resort facilities. The Niseko Village’s Mizuno no sawa educational program has started. Follow the ski patrol’s instructions and ride safe. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 345cm Base - 165cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 230cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Sunday 11th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 691cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 40 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 142cm reported on 10 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 712cm Posted on Tuesday 13th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It's not snowing this morning and just a dusting to report. It makes a change, I suppose! Not snowing here at base anyway, though Niseko Village seem to be saying snow higher up - I'll have to get up there to check. But yes it's generally just cloudy conditions over the Niseko area early this morning. I'm happy to report that winds are calm and all of the resort areas look set to be open as planned. As per the report below, Gates 2 & 3 are going to be closed with others still to be determined. We were hoping for a bit of sunshine this morning, maybe we'll get it later on. Very probably sunny conditions to enjoy tomorrow though and maybe even on Thursday too. Looking like we're on for a bit of a break from fresh snowfall... though it should be back by Friday freshening us up for 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 this morning. 'Early Morning' lift available daily until 1st February (for 500 yen, Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. 'Early Morning Gondola' available Saturdays and Sundays until February 8th (for 1300 yen, Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am). Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -3C, 15cm of snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: -7C and developing snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: NW10m/s, -10C with snowdrifts developments. Hirafu ridge: W10m/s, -11C and large development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNW10m/s, Kamui cape N5m/s, 1024hPa, 1.8m waves. The wind is starting to calm down, however the snow surface above 800m has been affected by the wind overnight, forming wind-ripples and crusts and the snowdrifts stabilization is being delayed. The avalanche risk is high in leeward slopes around 1000m. Gates 2 & 3 will be closed; others still to be determined. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. The snow in the trees is a bit better than yesterday’s, but catchy and easy to loose control. Beware of hitting trees. The snow condition is ever changing and the hazard level varies from not only the terrain & slope orientation, but also from altitude difference. Better not overestimate your skills or knowledge; stay prudent and humble towards the mountain. Avalanches are natural phenomena that can occur in the least expected situations, however most can be avoided if precautions are taken. The groomers are in fantastic condition today. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 350cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 230cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Tuesday 13th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 712cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 42 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 163cm reported on 12 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 716cm Posted on Saturday 17th January 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Ah yes, back to snow. Certainly not a whole lot just yet - less than 5cm outside my place and 5-10cm being reported on mountain by the resorts - but definitely good to see snow falling once again after a break of a few days. For the report icons I need to choose light, moderate or heavy for the snowfall.... going to go with 'light', but very much hoping that it will be falling at more of a pace soon. The forecast is looking promising and the snow clouds should be over the region beyond Monday. So I'm hoping for a good number to put in my report tomorrow morning. A light wind right now but along with the heavier snow we're also expecting stronger winds later on; it's going to be and feel cold out there today. Hope you have a fun weekend. --- Resort specific news at time of writing - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. 'Early Morning' lift available daily until 1st February (for 500 yen, Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. 'Early Morning Gondola' available Saturdays and Sundays until February 8th (for 1300 yen, Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am). Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 5cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: N5m/s, -7C, 10cm snowfall. Annupuri 1150m: N10m/s, -8C, 10cm snowfall. 230cm snowpack at 1000m. Hirafu ridge: NE10m/s, -10C, 5cm snowfall. Coastal data: Benkei cape NNE9m/s, Kamui cape ENE2m/s, 1001hPa, 0.9m waves. A low-pressure system is moving across the Sea of Japan. Pre-low pressure snowfall started from 2am and dropped 10cm of snow until the morning. A northerly wind is forecasted to pick up, bringing snow and gusts. The avalanche risk will stay low during the morning, but will rise in the afternoon, especially in higher areas such as the Backbowl sidewalls around 1000m. Many of the avalanche accidents occur in leeward snowdrift slopes during a storm. Today’s snow is different from yesterdays. Always be prudent. The old tracks remains and the slopes aren’t reset; ride carefully. Keep your touring plans flexible and adjust them according to the weather. All gates are scheduled to open. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Don’t duck ropes! Good to see some new snow coming. Have a nice day. --- Official snow depth numbers and any notes at time of writing: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 330cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village: Top - 250cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 230cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Saturday 17th January 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 716cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 43 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 167cm 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