Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 992cm Posted on Friday 27th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello and good morning from Hirafu. Just another small amount of fresh snow this morning, around 5cm outside my place. It feels a bit warmer too and the snow quality is reflected by that - bit wet. Looking at the report below there's a fairly decent amount to be found higher up so head up there for the goods. Stronger winds likely later in the day and temperatures drop. It looks like even at 8:45am as I am about to post this, the top lifts at Annupuri, Village and Grand Hirafu are stopped because of the wind. Anyway, hopefully I will have more snow to report tomorrow morning for you. --- If you take a look down this page at that pretty little table of statistics, you'll see that this season so far we are on 992cm of observed snowfall, compared with 1037cm last season at the end of February. --- Resort specific news as of 8:45am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Top King Number 4 and Ace Number 4 lifts on hold. Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned. Niseko Village: Top Wonderland lift on hold. Niseko Annupuri: Top Jumbo Number 4 lift on hold. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: +1C, 20cm of wet snow in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: SW10m/s, 30-40cm of new snow and snowdrift development, -4C. Annupuri 1150m: SW15m/s, 20cm new snowfall, snowdrift development, -7C. Hirafu 1000m: SW15m/s, blizzard conditions, snowdrift development -6C. Annupuri peak 1150m: wind SW speed not avail, -6.0℃. Cape Benkei: SW3m/s, Cape Kamui: SSW12m/s, pressure 997hPa, wave 0.7m. Low pressure system has brought warm air into the region with heavy falls of wet snow. From observation, snowdrifts above 1000m are unstable, Osawa, Kozan no sawa, Mikaeri Bowl, below Higashi one(east ridge), will easily fracture at Feb 26th layer, 40-50cm depth. These slabs are heavy and dangerous. All peak gates will closed this morning. Please respect and follow the patrol`s decisions. Cracks are hidden by new snow and cant be seen from above, take care not to fall in head first. Snow in the forest is heavy and hard to push through. The local business group that was reported recently causing trouble on Niseko and nearby mountains has approached the local council to try and justify their behavior. These people do not even try to understand why there are Niseko Rules, and how they came to be put in place. They show there nativity by thinking they can complain to local government and every thing will be OK. The reason this trouble has started is because this business has the wrong view about what freedom means, overestimates their own experience and knowledge, and do not take any cultural differences into account. The Avalanche Institute is an independent organization who together with the ski area management and local government try to minimize accidents. If someone interferes with our ability to do this, we will react strongly. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 415cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 370cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 27th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 992cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 70 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 186cm reported on 17 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 1002cm Posted on Saturday 28th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Hirafu and some more snow to report on this last morning of February. Another 10cm here in the base area once again, and hearing 20cm or so higher up from the resort. It's kind of similar amounts as we have seen over the last 4 or 5 days in fact, so a steady refresh each day and bringing us up to 196cm observed at base for February. It also means that we break through the 10m mark for the season as a whole. I'll take a look at more statistics sometime in the next few days. This morning the sun is out. Lots of blue sky, a few clouds and some bright sunshine. A moderate wind but it doesn't seem to be affecting lift operations this morning, at the time of writing and checking information anyway. (Phew!) A generally fine day expected today with a return of snowfall sometime late on tomorrow. I've got a few people to meet out on the mountain so I'm off to put the boots on. Have a very fine, safe and fun day wherever you are. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -3C, 20cm of new snow. Moiwa 800m: NE10m/s, 20cm of new snow, major snowdrift development. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 315cm, NNW15m/s, snowdrift development. Hirafu 1000m: Strong winds, -7C, snowdrift development on leeward slopes. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind NNW18.1m/s, -9.1C. Cape Benkei: NNE16m/s, Cape Kamui: ENE6m/s, pressure 1018hPa, wave 2.7m. Blizzard conditions late last night to dawn caused rapid snowdrift development on steep south facing slopes (under knolls). From 5am observation, expect slabs to fracture at 50-60cm, avalanche risk is High. Slabs are fracturing at Feb27th low pressure layer. Peak gate openings are yet to be decided. Please respect patrol's decisions. Annupuri Osawa, Kozan no sawa should not be ridden today. Do not traverse from gates 1 and 8 to Osawa cornice slope. Do not duck ropes. Also be aware there is avalanche risk low on the mountain at Annupuri Ski area in the gully under gondola. Most avalanche accidents happen right after a storm. A simple pit check alone is an unreliable way to assess risk. The wind blown snow propagates impact regardless of a weak layer. Avoid riding in valley bottoms- where the avalanche will run. The snow is good and deep in the forest. Be aware of hidden cracks. Is your beacon on? Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 370cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Saturday 28th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1002cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 71 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 987cm Posted on Thursday 26th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning and there's fine clear blue skies above Niseko this morning. But we also have another 10cm or so of snow again this morning, delivered from yesterday afternoon and overnight. It is good and cold this morning too so I would expect conditions to be pretty good - not the deepest of layers, so I'd go early to get it while it's there. I expect to be bringing news of more snow in my report tomorrow too, with a snowy day ahead of us Friday. Just hoping that wind doesn't become a nuisance again... All resort areas plan to be open as normal this morning, as do the gates. So have a good one! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 10cm of new snowfall in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: W5m/s, 15cm new snowfall and minor snowdrift development overnight. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 305cm. Hirafu 1000m: light winds, 15cm new snow, -7C. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind NW 5m/s, -10.9C. Cape Benkei: NW4m/s, Cape Kamui: WSW5m/s, pressure 1021hPa, wave 0.8m. The sea and mountains are calm under influence of a high pressure system. The mountain has a shallow blanket of fresh snow and there has been some minor snow drift development. From observation the general avalanche risk is low and the snow is good in the forest. All gates are expected to be open. The Mizuno no sawa educational program is now closed for the season. In Haru no Taki, Mizu no sawa, Yu no sawa the cracks are becoming more obvious and the risk of full depth avalanche is increasing. These steep south facing gullies should not be ridden. From this years snowfall transition a large scale avalanche from around 1100m in Osawa and Kozan no sawa is predicted. This avalanche will run a long way, traveling at about 80kph, picking up trees and rocks as it goes. Avoid riding in the valley bottom. Avalanches only become an accident if people are involved. Niseko Rules have been put in place for the safety of all guests and to protect your right to ride out of bounds. Please respect and follow the rules, and understand the difficult job the ski patrol have to do. Have a good day. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Thursday 26th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 987cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 69 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 181cm reported on 16 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 977cm Posted on Wednesday 25th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning Niseko Now readers, and there's another 10cm of snow to report this morning and it looks decent quality too. Probably to do with the fact that it's colder this morning and I could really notice that when I went out for my early morning walk. I must go up and try it, you know.. just to check! It's not snowing right now, rather it's a somewhat surprisingly fine morning. Lots of blue sky, just a bit of white cloud, just a light wind... and the sun shining down on us. Should be some fine views to be had this morning. Still forecasts tell us that we might just get a bit of snow today, sun expected tomorrow before snow arrives just in time for the weekend - decent snowfall forecast for Friday. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 15cm of new snowfall in last 12 hrs, calm. Moiwa 800m: NW10m/s, 20cm new snowfall and snowdrift development. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 300cm. Hirafu 1000m: light winds, 15cm new snow, -10C. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind NW speed not avail, -10.6C. Cape Benkei: WSW4m/s, Cape Kamui: NNE4m/s, pressure 1016hPa, wave 2.0m. Strong westerly wind continued at higher elevations until dawn. Leeward slope knolls show 50cm of new snowdrifts which appeared stable at 5am observation. As wind drops the snow will turn to light crystals. The snow in the forest is good but you will still hit the bottom. Yesterdays low pressure snow was slow because it contained dirt from the continent and the dirt will remain in the Feb 24 layer. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrols advice before going out of bounds. From the snowfall transition don’t stimulate steep slopes of knolls today. The avalanche risk continues to be high. Large scale avalanches will run down the valley bottoms, always avoid riding in the bottom of gullies and valleys. We are always repeating this – please respect and follow the Niseko Rules. The snow is better than it has been for a long time. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Wednesday 25th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 977cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 68 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 171cm reported on 15 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 1002cm Posted on Sunday 1st March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from the Niseko area and welcome to March! No fresh snow to report this morning and clouds over the region. It's a rather grey morning actually after the fine and clearer start to the day yesterday. I managed to join the crowds and find myself some nice pockets of snow. There's a light to moderate southerly wind in places, but not enough to be affecting the lifts at the start of the day. We should be enjoying some more fresh snow as well soon, with it perhaps starting to fall before the lifts close for the day today and to continue at least through tomorrow. Fingers crossed for some decent numbers and it keeping on the colder side of what is forecast. --- OK so as promised time to take a look at some numbers just for some fun. Here's the snowfall observed by myself here by the base area in Hirafu... February 2014: 178cm February 2015: 196cm So a bit more snow last month than the same month last season. The last 5 days of the month really helped us out there! Last season up until end of February 2014: 1037cm This season up until end of February 2015: 1002cm We're just a bit behind the overall haul for the season so far as of the end of February, but managed to hit 10m of observed snowfall. The big difference this season is December and January kind of 'swapping positions' - with lots more snowfall in December this season than last, but quite a bit less in January this season than last. It kind of adds up to there being quite a bit less 'fresh' in the first two months of 2015 than we had last season. Looking at the other Now reports makes for interesting reading too, with a similar kind of story in quite a few areas. Now on to the Japan Meteorological Agency statistics, coming to you from the Kutchan town area a bit lower down. February 2014: 130cm February 2015: 167cm So those numbers also reflecting slightly more this February than last. --- How about March? Last season I observed 113cm. Let's double that this season, ok Snow Gods?! Remember there's always going to be more up on the mountain than down at base, and probably 1.5 times more is not too off the mark in general. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, no new snow. Moiwa 800m: light winds, no new snow, -7C. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 315cm. Hirafu 1000m: SW5m/s, -7C, no new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind SW 10.8m/s, -10.0C. Cape Benkei: SSW3m/s, Cape Kamui: S8m/s, pressure 1020hPa, wave 0.7m. The pressure gradient is shallow and the sea and mountains are calm. Snow is stable and general avalanche risk is low. All peak gates are expected to be open. Do not play around cornices, they might suddenly collapse. Making a kicker out in the forest is fun, but think about if there is an injury, how will you get out? Will rescuers be able to get to you and help? Avalanches are not the only danger in the mountains. This information is issued for the prevention of all accidents. Do not try and sneak past the patrol to duck ropes. If you want to go out of bounds you must use the gates. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 370cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Sunday 1st March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1002cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 71 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 0cm 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 1005cm Posted on Monday 2nd March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a thin new covering of snow this morning to report with 5cm being reported higher up the mountain. It's one of those days when wind becomes an issue unfortunately with some lifts at each of the four main resort areas affected. Below I have added the information as it is at 8:30am.... it may well change of course during the day, best to check with the resorts for the latest if you are going to be out there. The forecasts are telling us to expect quite strong winds during the day though, so if anything the situation may get worse rather than improving. Sorry! I sure don't enjoy writing that kind of stuff! But it is what it is... Light snow is falling at the moment and the temperature is nudging up to +1C now, so it could be colder. Visibility is going to be limited up there this morning, so know where you're going and take care. Sunny skies are expected tomorrow with hopefully calmer winds, and we should be back to snow - hopefully decent snowfall - by Wednesday morning. --- Floodlit night skiing operations are due to continue daily until Sunday 22nd March. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Top Ace Number 4, King Number 4 and King Number 3 lifts on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko Hanazono: Top Hanazono Number 3 lift on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Number 1 lift running at reduced speed. Niseko Village: Top Wonderland lift on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Gondola running at reduced speed. Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola, Jumbo 3 and Jumbo 4 lifts on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: 0C, 5cm low pressure snowfall in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: N10m/s, 5cm new snow, -3C, snow drift development. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 315cm, N15m/s, -3C. Hirafu 1000m: N12m/s, -4C. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind N16.4m/s, -6.1C. Cape Benkei: NE14m/s, Cape Kamui: S2m/s, pressure 1002hPa, wave calm. Low pressure system over eastern Japan is bringing warm air into the region. As the low intensifies the northerly wind will increase. From 5am observation the snow is stable, however as the wind increases through the day snowdrifts will fracture more easily and the avalanche risk will increase. Most accidents happen during stormy conditions. Peak gates 2 and 3 will be closed, others yet to be decided. Please respect and follow the patrols decisions. Niseko Rules are not a suggestion, do not ignore them and duck ropes to go out of bounds. Your safety in Niseko is protected by the Rules, disregarding them threatens the safety of everyone on the mountain. Danger riding or stopping in the valley bottoms, this is where the avalanche will go. Take care, today visibility is bad, beware falling into cracks, hitting trees. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 2nd March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1005cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 72 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 3cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 1008cm Posted on Tuesday 3rd March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Niseko and a bit earlier than usual as I need to get myself off to Sapporo this morning. Anyway, a bit more new snowfall this morning with 10cm being reported higher up on the mountain. There is lots of cloud about up there this morning but the sun should be out today at times and we'll see temperatures creep into low positive numbers during the day here at base. Just not it's -1C. After the strong winds of yesterday I'm glad that today is starting off calmer and all resorts seem to be open as normal... Annupuri Gondola due for a slightly late start (something to do with them doing checks on it after the strong winds of yesterday!) Hopefully we'll have snow clouds back tomorrow and Thursday, lets see how much they can bring us. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 10cm new snowfall in last 12 hrs. Moiwa 800m: NW3.5m/s, 10cm new snow, -6C, major snow drift development. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 310cm. Hirafu 1000m: Light winds, 10cm new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind W8.4m/s, -10.3℃. Cape Benkei: NW10m/s, Cape Kamui: W11m/s, pressure 1015hPa, wave 1.9m. There has been a rapid development of new snowdrifts above the low pressure snow layer from 28 Feb . The drifts have begun to settle, but above 800m, leeward slopes knolls and under cornices, the risk of 40-50cm surface avalanche continues. All gates are expected to be open. Be careful riding leeward slopes, just under sharp ridgelines and open steep slopes. Do not traverse under cornices. Slab stabilization is delayed at higher elevations. Our prayers go out to the 3 people lost on Asaridake. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 400cm Base - 145cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 370cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Tuesday 3rd March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1008cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 73 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 6cm 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 1039cm Posted on Wednesday 11th March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here So yes it was pretty wild weather conditions yesterday in many parts of Hokkaido. The bad weather was affecting transportation as well as ski lifts. Not a nice day! How about today then? Well, the good news is that the rain did turn into snow during the day yesterday and this morning there is fresh snow on the ground. 10cm of it. Expect more higher up on the mountain of course - I am hearing 20-25cm from a friend who works at a resort. Further good news is that it is still snowing rather heavily now and is forecast to continue through the day today; snowfall is likely to continue until the end of the week, perhaps today will be the heaviest. That all sounds good to me, and it should be building up nicely. Good numbers to report tomorrow I would imagine. Less good news is that the stormy conditions are continuing... Yesterday some of the lifts that had been stopped due to the weather gradually did seem to open mid to late morning, though just lower lifts, and even the Hirafu Gondola and Ace Number 2 Center Four lift managed to get going at 5pm. This morning at the start of planned ski resort openings the situation is no lifts moving at Annupuri and Hanazono and lower lifts open at Niseko Grand Hirafu and Niseko Village. Details as of 8:30am in the area below. Keep an eye on the weather and with the resorts for the latest. Winds will hopefully be less of an issue tomorrow. Have a safe day if you plan to brave the elements! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -3C, 20cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: SE10m/s, large development of snowdrifts and difficult access to Mikaeri cat track. Annupuri 1000m snowpack 335cm. Hirafu 1000m: strong wind and heavy snowfall, large development of snowdrifts, poor visibility, -5C. Peak 1308m: -7.2C, anemometer data n/a. Benkei cape: WNW24m/s, Kamui cape WSW18m/s, 974hPa, 1.6m waves. A developing low-pressure system is passing by generating heavy snowfall with strong gusts. Snowdrifts are developing drastically and the avalanche risk is extreme in all areas. Most gates will be closed, please don’t duck ropes to step out of bounds. All surrounding peaks are in an extremely hazardous condition; remember that many of the accidents occur during poor weather. Better not push it too far today. Hazardous conditions will persist a while after the weather ameliorates. 50cm thick slides from March 10th layer are highly likely to occur in leeward slopes above 700m altitude. Climax (ground) avalanches from 1100m areas are also to be expected. Better stay away from the valleys & bowls even after the storm settles down. This information is dedicated to prevent accidents of all ski resort users. Moiwa ski area will be closed due to the weather. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 445cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 370cm Base - 190cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Wednesday 11th March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1039cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 76 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 37cm 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 6cm Snowfall at base this season 1029cm Posted on Saturday 7th March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Ah, here we are at another weekend. The weeks just whiz by don't they. Thick fog up top apparently and a few lifts not going to be operating at the start of the day due to very poor visibility apparently. The Gondola at Hirafu also is going to be a bit delayed due to some kind of maintenance. Hopefully that will get going quickly. Some new somewhat wet snow on the ground this morning - I make it 6cm - and light snow has still falling but not much is expected and it will very probably finish up this morning. Definitely limited visibility out there though, even lower down on the mountain. It feels rather mild too this morning. We will likely see some sun tomorrow and it will get a bit warmer. Tuesday through until the end of the week is looking quite tasty at the moment with some significant snowfalls and cold weather lined up on the forecasts. Let's hope that arrives unchanged. In the meantime, be sure you know where you're going and have a funtastic Saturday. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Top King Number 4 and Ace Number 4 lifts on hold due to poor visibility. Hirafu Gondola set for a late start due to some maintenance. Niseko Hanazono: Plans to be open as normal this morning. Niseko Village: Plans to be open as normal this morning. Niseko Annupuri: Top Jumbo Number 4 lift may not be moving early due to poor visibility. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: 0C, 5cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: SE5m/s, 10cm snowfall with moderate snowdrift development, poor visibility, -3C. Annupuri 1000m snowpack 325cm. Hirafu 1000m: mild wind & snow, poor visibility, 5cm snowfall, -5C. Peak 1308m: S2.3m/s, -6.3C. Benkei cape SSW2m/s, Kamui cape ENE4m/s, 1025hPa, calm sea. The wind is calm under the high-pressure system and a humid snow has blanketed the mountain due to warm air inflow. The wind has slowly drifted snow in knolls and steep slopes above 700m; surface slab slides up to 20cm are likely to occur. Those slides may be thin, but the snow is heavy and is powerful enough to carry a person to the bottom. Potential failure from March 7th layer. The snow in the trees has been partially recovered and in good shape during the morning. Refrain from riding the valley bottoms. Climax (ground) avalanches hazard, as well as creek holes, are present in Osawa and Kozan no sawa (Backbowl). When falling into creeks, the stream could easily drag you downstream and drown you under snowbridges. Do not traverse open steep slopes under cornices, it could easily trigger a slide. Peak gates are expected to open if the visibility improves. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. Still a long way before the end of the season, have a nice day. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Saturday 7th March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1029cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 75 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 27cm 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 25cm Snowfall at base this season 1094cm Posted on Friday 13th March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here The weather is still acting all confused like it's early-mid season, which is of course great news for us all here to enjoy it. There's some very happy people around at the moment, I can tell you. We have seen another very respectable amount of fresh snow, 25cm in fact, here in Hirafu base since my report yesterday and of course we expect more up there on the mountain - the report below bringing in 40cm in places. We really could not be asking for more at the moment in terms of snow with excellent fresh snow conditions and lots of it to play in. If only we could do something about that wind. Looks like top lifts are again affected at the start of the day - info as of 8:30am is posted below. Subject to change, hopefully for the better. We should be on the tail end of this storm now and can expect calmer conditions from tomorrow. --- Just a quick look at my numbers to compare with last season in March. Last March for the whole month I observed 113cm. This month up until and including today, I'm on 92cm. So there's not much more to get past last season. Of course you might expect less snow in the second half of March than the first, and the forecast into next week is showing something of a return to drier more spring like conditions, but still... :) --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 30cm new snow in last 12hrs. Moiwa 800m: NW8m/s, 40cm new snowfall, snow drift development, -6C. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 335cm. Hirafu 1000m: NW10m/s, 40cm new snowfall, snow drift development, -6C.. Annupuri peak 1308m: -8.6℃. Cape Benkei: NW13m/s, Cape Kamui: WSW14m/s, pressure 1003hPa, wave 2.1m. There has been over 100cm snow in the last 2 days and storm is beginning to break. Mikaeri link road is not passable. From observation, at 700m on snow drift slopes there is high possibility of surface slab avalanche over 60cm in depth. Main gates will be kept closed. Dont duck ropes to go out of bounds. Yesterday some people entered strictly off limits area Haru no Taki and had to be rescued by Hirafu Patrol. These people didnt know Niseko Rules, ducked ropes, followed some tracks and went into the valley. The first track made under the ropes can lead to an accident one day. Dont disrespect the rules and people who continue to, will be banned from this mountain. The snow will slowly stablise, but to avoid a giant avalanche stay out of the valley bottoms. Avalanche speed will be over 100km/h and run a long way. Be cautious today. The wind is dropping off and the snow is deep. Best to stay near the course today. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 495cm Base - 190cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 390cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 13th March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1094cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 78 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 92cm 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 30cm Snowfall at base this season 1069cm Posted on Thursday 12th March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Stormy conditions continue in the wider region at the moment. Loads more snow, my highly scientific measuring methods indicate 30cm of it. Take a look at the Avalanche report below and see 50cm being mentioned... there's a lot of fresh snow out there just now. How about the wind? I have to post this report a little earlier today and some information is not yet available so I would check with the resorts for the latest. It looks like lower lifts might get to open but top lifts will be taking a rest again at least at the beginning of the day. Hopefully things might start to calm down today (good!) with snow probably going to be falling into tomorrow (very good). The current situation might not be great for the people who happen to be here right now in the middle of it (if the lifts and gates don't open), but once the bite of this storm passes those folk who decided to be here mid March will be feeling very lucky indeed! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 40cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa Mikaeri Cat track SW7m/s, 50cm new snow with large development of snowdrifts, -6C. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 330cm. Hirafu 1000m: 50cm snowfall, snowdrift development. Peak temp -8.6C. Benkei cape: WNW19m/s, Maui cape WSW19m/s, 994hPa, 3.1m waves. Strong storm with heaviest snowfall of the season. 50cm surface slab avalanches are likely to occur in leeward slopes with heavy snowdrift deposit above 500m altitude. The avalanche risk is extreme in the Niseko range and the surrounding peaks. All gates above 800m will be closed. The snow is wind-affected & heavy. You may be stuck if you ride down to the bottom of the valleys without proper equipment. Cornices have grown over 10m in some places and are highly likely to collapse with the slightest stimulation. Falling cornices could trigger a large avalanche. No avalanches are alike, but the current condition is similar to Satsunai river No.10 creek accident in the Hidaka range that occurred on the 13th March 1965. This avalanche ran for 3km from the ridgeline, burying 6people to death who were bivouacking inside a snowcave. Better stay away from the valley bottom today. The snow is good, but heavy and deep in the trees. Beware of falling into hidden cracks. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 470cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 160cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 370cm Base - 190cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Thursday 12th March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1069cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 77 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 67cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 1023cm Posted on Thursday 5th March 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here So yesterday I think I might have mentioned that we were expecting some snow. And this morning we are the proud recipients of a good 15cm of new snow on the ground. It is still snowing now with snow forecast on and off during the day today and perhaps tomorrow as well. It's staying relatively mild and just under the zero mark. Mountains are covered in cloud and I suspect more limited visibility the higher you get. And talking about higher up on the mountain... Northerly wind is affecting lifts at the start of the day unfortunately, with all of Annupuri not opening yet and top lifts at the other three areas on standby. The forecast tells of less strong winds later on today, so hopefully that situation will change. Keep an eye on the latest from the resorts there... That aside, it should be a good morning. Have fun and take care. Calmer and clearer weather conditions are still forecast for the coming weekend. Back to snow early in the week perhaps. --- As we are now into March, things are starting to feel a bit quieter. Or am I imagining that? No, don't think so. Still, I can still say at this point that there is just over two month of ski season left here. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -1C, 15cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NNW15m/s, 20cm of fresh with large snowdrift development. Annupuri 1000m snowpack 320cm. Hirafu peak: N21.2m/s, -8.1C. Benkei cape: ENE10m/s, Kamui cape: ENE5m/s, 1006hPa, 2.4m waves. Mikaeri cat track 700m: 45cm of unstable & heavy snowdrifts. Potential trigger layer: March 4-5th low-pressure system snowfall. A northerly wind picked up since pre-dawn and snowdrifts are developing, notably in the western areas. Avalanche risk is high in western slopes above 700m. Peak gates will be closed. Knoll (convex) terrain are typical avalanche terrain, better not stimulate these slopes. The snow in the trees is in good shape. Surface slab avalanche are still likely to occur in open steep south facing slopes above treeline of Chisenupuri and Nitonupuri. Carefully choose your touring route. Better not traverse wide-open slopes. Customers’ safety must be the number one priority for all commercial tour operators. Please be safe. The snow condition is getting better. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Thursday 5th March 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 1023cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 74 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th & 26th December and 11th February) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 196cm reported on 18 days March 2015 snowfall 21cm 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