Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 13cm Snowfall at base this season 633cm Posted on Tuesday 2nd February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning and it's an early report this morning as I need to get out early today*. This morning there's another 13cm of fresh snowfall to report here at base so the overnight refills keep on coming - and it's still snowing. A special hello to the guy with the red jacket and his friends who seem to be waiting at the Ace Number 2 quad lift from 7:45am - looks like he's keen to get in first tracks today, and I don't blame him! Snow conditions should be quality out there this morning. Maybe limited visibility especially early on as it's snowing quite hard right now in places; probably going to ease off soon. Just cloud and maybe some sunshine forecast for tomorrow before we get back into hopefully decent snow in the run up to the weekend. --- * Sadly not out onto the slopes! --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -10°C, 15cm new crystal snow, calm. Moiwa 800m: -12°C NW8m/s, 20cm new snow, no snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -11.6°C, light winds, 20cm new snow. Annupuri 1150m: -13°C, W15m/s, 15cm new snow. Hirafu 1000m snowpack 205cm. Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: -14°C, W10m/s, 15cm new snow. Coastal data: Benkei Cape:NW13m/s. Kamui Cape W8m/s, 1014hPa, wave 0.8m. Below 1100m there is light winds, no snow drift development, 15-20cm on new snow, no obvious weak or unstable snowdrifts and lower levels of the snow pack are stable and compacted. General avalanche risk is low. Be careful carrying too much speed and hitting a tree. Also take care of falling into creeks, if you rescue someone who has fallen in a creek and is completely wet, use rescue blanket, hot water in PET bottles under arms. If the victim keeps shivering uncontrollably, looses consciousness or is becoming seriously hypothermic it is a very dangerous situation. Avalanches are not the only danger in the winter mountains. People deliberately continuing to enter Haru no Taki will be banned from Niseko ski areas. If you don't care about your own safety, think about others who will have to come and rescue you if you have an accident. Today's snow is excellent. --- Official resort snow depths as of Tuesday 2nd February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 330cm Base - 140cm Niseko Village Top - 280cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 285cm Base - 160cm --- Lifts planned to be open for night skiing: 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 2015-2016 season Data as of Tuesday 2nd February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 633cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 49 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 25cm 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 670cm Posted on Friday 5th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's another 10cm more fresh on the ground this morning, thank you very much! That makes my observed total 62cm in the 5 reports so far this month so the great start to the month continues. There is a lot of cloud around at the moment but good visibility and areas of blue sky also appearing. There's also more of a wind around this morning and strong westerly winds blowing around higher up according to the resorts (Annupuri reporting a blowy 22m/s) - unfortunately top lifts don't look like they are going to be starting the day as planned. Latest info at time of writing added below, let's hope it calms down. Some more snowfall is due overnight once again and at times tomorrow too; oh yes, and on Sunday too. If you are looking for some sunshine, Monday is still looking like it will be the main day for you. Hope you all have a very fine day. --- One rather angry person sent an email yesterday to the SnowJapan folk asking why 'the Niseko reporter is doing his best to get people to go to other areas'. Apparently, that's what he - for it was a he - took from my report yesterday morning. Huh?! No, I'm not 'doing my best to get people to go to other areas'. I'm also actually not 'doing my best to get people to come to Niseko' either.* I'm simply reporting honest conditions from here in Niseko and at times adding a bit of commentary (for want of a better word). I think lots of people will be interested in how the season is going not only here in Niseko but in Japan in general; and how this season may be different from other seasons... that kind of thing. I give the readers of these reports more credit than just being exclusively interested in Niseko and nothing else. I do want to perhaps add that I hope that my love of Niseko - and indeed Japan in general - also does come through in these reports. (But that's not me trying to sell anything to anyone). The person who sent that was probably the same type of person who would prefer that I don't talk about rain if it is raining**, and would prefer if I didn't talk about rubbish snow when the snow is rubbish***. --- * BOOK NOW! ** It never rains in Niseko in winter. *** Snow is never rubbish in Niseko. (Not even when it's rubbish). --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu The top Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko HANAZONO Resort For the moment, open as planned. Niseko Village The top Wonderland lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko Annupuri The Gondola and top Jumbo 4 lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -5℃, 10cm snowfall, no snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -8℃, NW5m/s, 15cm snow with might snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -8.3℃, SW3m/s. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, W15m/s. Hirafu peak ridge 1250m: -11℃, 10cm snow and light development of snowdrift. Benkei cape: NW15m/s, Kamui cape: W14m/s, 1011hPa, 1.3m waves. A NW wind has picked up as the small Low passed, generating snowdrifts on top of Feb 4th pre-low pressure snowfall layer above 900m elevation, making the layer under Feb 4th transform into a hoar layer due to the temperature changes. Thin surface slab slides are to be expected in the Bckbowl sidewalls, below Osawa cornices, Mikaeri bowl and other leeside steep slopes. Peak gates are scheduled to open, please follow the patrol’s instructions. Be careful digging easy pits, they could trigger a slid. Remember to always belay yourself when pit-checking in knolls or steep slopes. The leeside aspects are pretty much reset but the snow is a bit heavy. Have you turned your beacon on?? Have nice day. Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Friday 5th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 670cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 52 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 62cm 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 685cm Posted on Saturday 6th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and the very fine start to the month continues this morning with another good 15cm of fresh snow and the good Avalanche folk reporting up to 30cm on mountain. That brings up my total observed snowfall in my last six reports to 77cm. Yey! And, it continues to snow at the time of writing - rather heavily at the moment too. Note: the snow itself isn't heavy! It's lovely and light. Sunshine is still looking likely for Monday. Before and after that though just expect snow to keep on falling. It's surely going to be a busy weekend here in Niseko, and so it's great that everyone will be able to enjoy fresh conditions each morning. There's lots of visitors here now and also arriving for the Chinese New Year celebrations. Enjoy your time here everyone! --- Yesterday was the opening day of the ever-popular Sapporo Snow Festival. This year it's the 67th time that this event is being held and it's going to be running until 11th February at the main Odori site in downtown Sapporo, and until 18th February at the Tsudome site. It's highly recommended, and no doubt already in the plans of a fair few of you reading this. Apparently about 2 million people visit each year! That's a lot of people. I haven't been myself yet but hope to get to see it in the next few days. I saw on the news last night that one of the snow sculpture attractions this year is of the new Shinkansen train that is going to be opening next month (the first time a Shinkansen bullet train line comes up to Hokkaido, initially to Hakodate). Looks like they have lots of images beaming onto the ice to make it almost like a cinema experience. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5am: -8℃, 20cm snowfall, calm. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, WSW5m/s, 30cm crystal snowfall. Mikaeri 740m: -10.2℃, light breeze, 30cm snowfall. Annupuri 1150m: W15m/s, 30cm snowfall with snowdrifts. Hirafu ridge line: -13℃, light wind, 15cm snowfall. Benkei cape: NNW14m/s, Kamui cape: WNW10m/s, 1011hPa, 1.2m waves. The atmospheric pressure gradient is small, but snow clouds are flowing in Niseko area, dropping 30cm of crystal snowflakes above 800m elevation. According to observations and weather transition, the development of snowdrifts is minor and the avalanche risk under 1000m elevation is low. However, 60cm surface slab slides are to be considered in area above 1100m elevation where relative strong westerly wind has been blowing, namely Annupuri’s Osawa cornice slopes and the Backbowl sidewalls. A slide triggered at the top of the slope, will clean everything on its way down, including people at the bottom of the valley. The snow is in really good shape, overhead blower condition in some areas. Beware of hitting trees and falling into cracks. Uncontrolled speed range can be very dangerous; do not overestimate the performance of the skis and boards. Many cases of people entering Haru no Taki strictly off-limits area from the Mizuno no Sawa area are being reported. It is very unfortunate to have a minority always disregarding the Rules wen most people are respecting it. We hope for a safe and enjoyable day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Saturday 6th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 355cm Base - 165cm Niseko Village Top - 300cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 310cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Saturday 6th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 685cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 53 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 77cm 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 9cm Snowfall at base this season 660cm Posted on Thursday 4th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here After an excellent day on the slopes yesterday, do I have news of our 'daily refresh'? Yes I do! This morning I measure 9cm of fresh snowfall and it's still snowing. I have just wiped the area to reset it and start recording new snow for my report tomorrow. And there's going to be some to report as well - the snow clouds are going to remain over Niseko (or at least be very close by) through until the end of the weekend. Forecasts seem to show a break in the snow on Monday and some sunshine (Happy Chinese New Year!) but then more snow after that from Tuesday. We are certainly enjoying conditions at the moment, that's for sure. --- I have heard a few conversations over the last week or so from people who have decided at the last minute to come up to Hokkaido (and specifically Niseko or Furano) after originally booking places down in some popular resort areas on Honshu. It seems that they didn't like hearing about the relative lack of snow down there and at the same time hearing about the regular snowfall up here, and it's hard to argue with that. I must admit though it does seem a pretty stark contrast this season. As I have said before in these reports - and as the statistics show - such a big contrast isn't 'the norm' and I'm sure that lots of SnowJapan readers are interested in the bigger picture rather than just snapshots. It is interesting to read through the reports from, say, last season and look at some of the statistics here. I find it really interesting anyway. Whatever, it is certainly going to be interesting to see how the rest of the season shapes up, both up here in Niseko and in other regions. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -5℃, 10cm snowfall. Moiwa800m: -8℃, mild wind, 10cm snow. Mikaeri 740m: -7.3℃, calm, 15cm crystal snow. Annupuri 1150m: -9℃, W5m/s, 15cm snowfall, excellent groomer conditions. Hirafu 1150m: W10m/s, 15cm snowfall, no notable development of snowdrifts. Sea of Japan Benkei cape:W11m/s at 5am, Kamui cape: SW11m/s, 1016hPa, 1.1m waves. A small low-pressure system is present in western Sea of Japan, however the pressure gradient is small and the mountain is in a calm condition this morning. Light snowfall overnight without notable development of snowdrifts. The general avalanche risk is low. All gates are scheduled to open from the morning. Get information from the ski patrol and be well prepared before going out of the gates. Always be ready for sudden weather changes, especially in higher elevation. The snow condition is ever changing. Paying attention to the weather transition is key to evaluate the hazards. Accidents mostly occur during stormy weather. Stay humble, hone your senses and always be prudent. The Niseko community respects the freedom to ride, but is also deeply concerned about all user’s safety. The snow is in good condition. Be careful not to hit trees and not to fall in cracks. --- Official resort snow depths as of Thursday 4th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 350cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 290cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 300cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 4th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 660cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 51 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 52cm reported on 4 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 700cm Posted on Sunday 7th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello to you all, and it is another very good morning here in Niseko. Another 15cm to add to the snowfall, bringing us to 92cm here at base since we entered February - that's almost half the total haul for the full month of February last season. Let's have a record breaking month! Yesterday seemed to pass without any drama other than the top King Number 4 lift at Grand Hirafu being closed for an hour or so early afternoon due to some kind 'mechanical failure'. Let's hope it's all open and smooth operations today. There's not much of a wind and so lifts are starting their journey for the day as planned, and the earlier snowfall has eased off. In fact, just as I write this the sun is shining through my window and I can see some patches of blue sky as well.. it may well just be a sneaky short blast because snow is actually still forecast for the day. Tomorrow lots of sun is still looking very likely to be making a special appearance. Getting to the lifts for early tracks is wholeheartedly recommended (just don't be too upset if you find quite a lot of other people are thinking the same!) I hope you have a great Sunday. I'm off out there to have some fun. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -10℃, 15cm of crushed crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, NW10m/s, 20cm snowfall with snowdrifts. Mikaeri 740m: -12.8℃, WSW4.1m/s, 20cm snow with developing snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -12℃, N10m/s, 15cm snowfall with snowdrifts developments. Hirafu peak ridge 4am: 16℃, light breeze and scarce snowfall. Benkei cape 5am: NNW11m/s, Kamui cape: W6m/s, 1013hPa, 1.3m waves. A westerly wind is forecasted to pick up later in the day, and will make snowdrifts develop in leeward slopes. According to morning observations, reports from patrols and cat operators, weather data and oceanic data, the avalanche risk in area below 1000m elevation is low this morning. All gates are scheduled to open. Listen to the patrol’s instructions and be prepared before you go out of bounds. We see some people doing pit-checks around the ski resort. Evaluating avalanche risk by observing layers is difficult in Niseko. Finding weak layers after accidents happened is too late. This information is released in hope to prevent accidents. Beware of falling into cracks, frostbites and sudden weather changes. Better not overestimate gears, skills and knowledge. Keep a scientific attitude and enjoy your day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Sunday 7th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 365cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village Top - 300cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 315cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Sunday 7th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 700cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 54 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 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 4cm Snowfall at base this season 729cm Posted on Monday 15th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here It is a better morning here in Niseko - a hearty welcome back to colder conditions and snow. I'm certainly glad that nasty weekend is over, I can tell you. Hopefully all thoughts of those silly warm conditions and even sillier rain are out of the system for the moment and we can all get back to some winter. Strong winds are still with us though and almost certainly going to be playing naughty with the lifts this morning - details as they are at 8:30am added below. Probably best to keep an eye on that information if you are planning on venturing out. It's definitely colder this morning and there is some fresh snow on the ground - slightly over 4cm here at my base - but that of course won't be enough to cover the damage done from the weather over the weekend... we need a decent amount of fresh snow for that. It was snowing just before but as I prepare this report there's actually a bit of sun peeking through the clouds and some blue sky to be seen in places as well. Hopefully that's just a temporary thing as we are actually forecast snow for the day. This week is looking promising and we will very probably get back to the regular daily snowfall that we all like to see so conditions should be gradually improving once again. Wind is also probably going to be something that I have to mention every day as well, but maybe we'll just have to put up with that if we want to get that fresh snow. Conditions are not ideal - as always, be careful out there and remember the dangers as well as the fun. --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu The top Ace Number 4, King Number 4, Ace Number 3 and King Number 3 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko HANAZONO Resort The top Hanazono Number 3 lift is on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko Village The Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland Chair lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko Annupuri The Annupuri Gondola and top Jumbo Number 4 lift are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -6°C, 10cm crushed crystal snow. Moiwa 800m: -10°C, SW15m/s, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -10.6°C, S6.8m/s, 50cm snowdrift development. Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: -10°C, W10m/s, trace new snow. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack depth 250cm. Annupuri 1150m: -14°C, NNW29m/s, Coastal data: Benkei Cape: WNW21m/s. Kamui Cape W15m/s, 998hPa, wave 3.3m. After the passing of low pressure system and the steepening atmospheric pressure gradient, the mountains and seas are experiencing severe weather. Although only a small amount of new snow has fallen, leeward snowdrifts formed over yesterday's refrozen, rain effected snow will collapse easily. Wind and snowdrift development is expected to continue, increasing avalanche risk to high today. All peak gates will be closed. Although lower elevation lifts will be running today, avoid cornice slopes looking for fresh snow. From observation and data, there is a high possibility of very deep surface slab avalanches on steep slopes where deep snowdrifts have formed. Most accidents happen during storms on leeward slopes, Take care, even riding in the trees the snow is rough and tricky. Conditions should improve tomorrow. The weather is bad, make cautious decisions today. --- Official resort snow depths as of Monday 15th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 300cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 310cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 320cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Monday 15th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 729cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 57 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 121cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 744cm Posted on Tuesday 16th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Niseko and it's a much improved picture this morning. There's 15cm of fresh snow to report this morning and with 20-30cm being reported in the Avalanche Report on mountain, I would expect a decent reset for this morning. I think I might just have to go and find out for myself. Looks like gates are going to be closed though. The overnight snow brings my observed snowfall number here at base for the month of February up to 136cm. Remember, last February it was 196cm for the month. If the forecast is correct and we can expect steady (and sometimes heavy) snowfall on most if not all days over the coming week, we should be well placed to do better than last year. Not that it's a competition or anything of course, just a bit of fun. And of course the more snow the better, not just when you think about daily refreshes but also when you start thinking about the spring season. So anyway it's snowing - and quite heavily just at this moment (though I see less so over at Hanazono from the webcam). But snow is forecast for the day and through the day tomorrow as well. We'll have to see how the winds shape up and if they are strong enough to affect lift operations again today - latest just before posting this report added below. Have a fine morning. --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu The top Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds and poor visibility. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Hanazono appears to be opening as planned at the start of the day. Niseko Village The top Wonderland Chair lift is on hold at the start of the day. Niseko Annupuri Niseko Annupuri appears to be opening as planned at the start of the day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -10°C, 20cm new snow, light winds. Moiwa 800m: W12m/s, 25cm new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -13.1°C, SSW2.4m/s, 30cm new snow, snowdrift development. Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: -16°C, Strong westerly wind. Annupuri 1150m: -16°C, WNW15m/s, poor visibility, snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NW17m/s. Kamui Cape W11m/s, 1005hPa, wave 2.4m. At elevations above 800m wind slab development continues and although the storm is weakening, the upper 30cm of newly formed slabs is easily fractured. Kozan no Sawa, Osawa, Mikaeri Bowl and Higashi One cornice face, if a fracture propagates down to the Feb14 layer low pressure snow layer there is possibility of large avalanche with very deep crown. Gates 1,2, 3,4 will be closed. 5 and 6 yet to be determined. Please respect the patrols decisions. There are many people using the resort and it just takes one person to duck a rope and many others will follow, creating a serious safety issue for the patrol. This is how accidents happen. Don't make selfish decisions, don't duck ropes. The mountain is reset and snow in the trees is great. Today, at Mikaeri ridge road we will be conducting avalanche tests, the road will be closed during this time. Take care with frostbite, have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Tuesday 16th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 310cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village Top - 320cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 330cm Base - 150cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Tuesday 16th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 744cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 58 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 136cm 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 12cm Snowfall at base this season 712cm Posted on Monday 8th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko and a very happy Chinese New Year to everyone who is celebrating it. I don't want to make a mistake with the words I use, and so please accept it in English! Unfortunately, the top lifts were affected by wind yesterday afternoon. Here's how the day played out around the mountain for those interested in knowing how these things play out: Niseko Annupuri - the top Jumbo number 4 lift stopped around 11:30am to be joined by the Gondola and Jumbo Number 3 lifts just before 2pm leaving us with just the lower two lifts operating. Niseko Village - the top Wonderland lift was halted just after 11:30am and then the Gondola operating at reduced speeds to be stopped at around 3pm. Niseko Grand Hirafu - the top King Number 4 and Ace Number 4 lifts stopped moving around noon with the King Number 3 lift also stopped mid afternoon. As far as I can tell, all of the three Hanazono lifts made it through the day, even if the top one was moving at reduced speeds. And so much for the 'possible clearing up' mentioned in my report as well - a few moments of some blue sky here and there, but generally cloudy and snowy - and really snowing heavily at times. So once again after some impressive snowfall, I have a good 12cm of fresh snowfall to report. What's more, as expected it's a really beautiful morning. The sun is out, there are beautiful blue skies all around and it seems fairly calm so I would expect everywhere to be opening as normal this morning. Fresh snow overnight and beautiful weather - I don't think I'll ever say it's perfect (after all, 30+cm of fresh would have been better!), but it's pretty ideal. I'm a big fan of the overnight snow followed by clear skies pattern so if you don't mind, I am going to treat myself to an early start this morning. I hope to see some of you out there. Have a great day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5am: -8℃, scarce snowfall, snowdrifts development and calm. Moiwa 800m: -11℃, W5m/s, 15cm snowfall with 50cm snowdrifts in knolls. Mikaeri 740m: -11.2℃, WSW0.9m/s, 20cm snowfall, 50cm snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -13℃, SW12m/s, 10cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Hirafu peak ridge: -12℃, 30cm snowfall, light snowdrifts on-piste. Benkei cape: NW6m/s, Kamui cape: NNW4m/s, 1017hPa, 1.7m waves. Beautiful calm morning in a high-pressure system. The snow & wind ceased late night and the newly formed slabs are stabilizing. Looking at observations and snowfall transitions, the avalanche risk in areas below 1000m is lowering, however highly wind-affected wide-open steep slopes loaded with snowdrifts above 1200m are still unstable and surface slab slides from Feb 7th layer are to be highly considered. All gates are scheduled to open from the morning. Stepping out of the gate is stepping out of the resort management. Many hazard are present out there, always be prudent. The snow in the trees is in good shape. Beware of falling in cracks or creeks. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Monday 8th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 355cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village Top - 310cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 315cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Monday 8th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 712cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 55 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 104cm 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 38cm Snowfall at base this season 782cm Posted on Wednesday 17th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A very good morning to you from Niseko. And how about this... the most snow in one day so far this season! I can't say that I was expecting quite this much, but more than happy to see it out there on the ground - all 38cm of it! We enjoyed lots of heavy snowfall yesterday and through the night so that we are able to wake up to all this lovely fluffy snow outside this morning. Check out this bit of the Avalanche Report: "Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: couldn't access by grooming machine, -10°C, over 60cm new snow"! I think this is probably enough for more than a complete refresh (you reckon?) and we should be set for some very exciting fun this morning... if the winds don't cramp our style of course. And it looks like we might be ok on that front this morning. Rather than wind, it's probably 'moving snow' that might delay some lifts for a short time. There's more regular snowfall due through until Friday, maybe a short break for a bit as we enter the weekend but back to snow from Sunday. Things are looking very good and re-assuring to see that the weekend was just a short blip on the big picture. Lots of snow is a whole lot of fun, but there's inherent dangers of course - keep calm and take care. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -6°C, 30cm new crystal snow, no snowdrift development. Moiwa 800m: -10°C, NW10m/s, 40cm new snow, snowdrift development. Mikaeri 740m: -9.5°C, WNW1.4m/s. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NW14m/s. Kamui Cape W10m/s, 1005hPa, wave 1.4m. Hirafu Peak Ridgeline: couldn't access by grooming machine, -10°C, over 60cm new snow. Annupuri 1000m: -10°C, WNW15m/s, too much snow to run grooming machines on. Biggest snow event this winter and the grooming machines are having difficulty getting up and down the slopes. Atmospheric pressure gradient is a little steep and snow drifts are growing moderately above 800m. From observation and data, above 900m SE through SW cornice, knoll and other steep slopes, the avalanche risk is high. Upper Haru no Taki, Yu no Sawa Annupuri side there is possibility of huge avalanche, fracturing deep on Feb 14 layer. This avalanche report is produced using both historical and current observations and data, and past accident history. It has proved to be reasonably accurate since started and we ask that you don't disregard the information. Gates 1, 2, 3, 4 will be closed. Other gates yet to be determined. Please respect the patrols decisions. Don't venture out of bounds late in the afternoon. If you get lost you will be in big trouble. Snow is good but deep. Be prepared with snowshoes and skins. Don't go on any long expeditions today. Don't duck ropes and try to enter closed gate areas. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Wednesday 17th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 370cm Base - 170cm Niseko Village Top - 330cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 350cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Wednesday 17th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 782cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 59 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (17th February) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 174cm 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 13cm Snowfall at base this season 725cm Posted on Wednesday 10th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Wind affected things yesterday and were noisy overnight too (glad to see I still have a roof on the top of my house, I thought it was going to come off at times) and unfortunately they're also preventing top lifts from starting the day today as well. The good news is that we have 12cm of fresh snow on the ground here near base. Watch out for the wind blowing it all around though, making for a less-and-more situation depending on where you are - that's apparent where I take my measurements each morning, but I think 12cm is a good reflection of the morning deposit. Keep that in mind and take care with your tracks and also please be aware of the avalanche risk as laid out below in the Avalanche Report. Care and calm heads needed in these conditions. The snow should be easing off later on in the day today and there's a chance of some sunshine tomorrow. I would try to avoid looking at the forecast for Saturday if you can, because rain and warmth is looking likely - it might well be a good day to plan some other kind of sightseeing. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 5am: -5℃, 20cm broken crystal snowfall with development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: -8℃, 20cm snowfall, snowdrift development and collapsing cornices. Mikaeri 740m: -6.8℃, W8.2m/s. Hirafu Peak: -9℃, strong wind and large development of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1000m: -8℃, intermittent snowfall with 20m/s gusts, large development of snowdrifts. Benkei cape: NNE14m/s, Kamui cape: N15m/s, 1009hPa, 3.8m wave height. A northerly wind picked up as the Low passed. Drastic development of snowdrift on top of yesterday’s graupel and broken crystal snow layer. These newly formed slabs easily transmit stimulation and collapsing lego-blocks like chunks of 50cm thickness has been observed this morning. Avalanche risk today is extreme. Gates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 will be closed. The wind would calm down and the lifts would start operating, but the hazard level will remain high a while after. Annupuri Osawa bowl, Mikaeri bowl, Higashi-One cornice slopes, Back bowl sidewalls are all time danger zone today. 50cm or bigger slab slides are to be expected. Do not duck ropes to head to those areas. Most accidents occur during and just after storms. Better stay inbounds today. A little heavy, wind-affected snow has blanketed the tree runs; overall good conditions. Beware of small but heavy enough slides occurring under steep lift lines. The snow conditions is ever-changing. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Wednesday 10th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 340cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 310cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 330cm Base - 180cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Wednesday 10th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 725cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 56 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 31cm (17th January) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 117cm 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 8cm Snowfall at base this season 790cm Posted on Thursday 18th February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here An excellent day for enjoying the snow conditions yesterday even though there were a few lift disruptions due to wind by mid-day. There's another 8cm of snow to report to you this morning from here at Hirafu base. Happily things seem somewhat calmer this morning as well. There's less wind and it's not quite as cold. Regular but generally light snow is forecast over the next few days - looks like it's going to get slightly warm tomorrow and there's a chance that we might have to endure a bit of rain; but hopefully even if that happens it will be short-lived. More snowfall - and perhaps heavier snowfall - is expected around Saturday. And more snow into next week, so it looks like we should be able to enjoy regular fresh each morning. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6.00am: -5°C, 5cm, calm. Moiwa 800m: -6°C, W8m/s, 15cm new snow. Mikaeri 740m: light wind. -6.9°C. Coastal data: Benkei Cape: NW14m/s. Kamui Cape WSW11m/s, 1005hPa, wave 2.6m. Hirafu Peak ridge line: light wind, -7°C. Annupuri 1150m: -9°C, W12m/s, snow conditions heavy with huge cornice development, snowpack 260cm. The winds dropped around midnight and the rapid snowdrift development from yesterday has slowed. From observation and data avalanche risk around 800m is dropping, however at 1000m leeward cornice, knoll, open 30deg slopes high avalanche risk continues. Avalanche risk from rider stimulation or careless traverses is still high. The scale of predicted avalanches is over 60cm. Please take special care today. All peak gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrol and make proper preparations before entering out of bounds areas. These areas are not managed and can deliver a serious lesson very quickly. There is many people riding out of bounds, carelessly triggering an avalanche could take out many people below. Dont stop and wait in the gullies, this is the avalanche path. Snow is a little slow but good. The temperature is rising and snow will become heavy by lunchtime. Take care to not hit obstacles. Early yesterday a full depth avalanche occurred at 800m in Mizo no Sawa. Air temperature is not the only cause of these deep avalanches. Cracks give an indication of the instabilities, however in this instance the crack and collapse happened at the same time. This is not uncommon in Niseko area. Take care. Have a good day. --- Official resort snow depths as of Thursday 18th February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 360cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 350cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Thursday 18th February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 790cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 60 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (17th February) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 182cm reported on 13 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 805cm Posted on Sunday 21st February 2016 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here This morning I have another 10cm of fresh snow to report to you. That's less than I think most of us were expecting given the forecasts yesterday, so we seem to have been missed out on that 'heavy snow' that we were being tempted with. Still, 10cm is certainly better than 0cm and there'll be more to play in up on the mountain. That new 10cm of snowfall though takes the total amount of observed snowfall this month (by myself) to be more than the amount I observed for the whole of the month of February last year. It also takes the total observed snowfall since the beginning of this season to over the 8m mark. With over a full week of February 2016 left to go and encouraging forecasts showing regular daily snowfall over the coming week, we could be on for a very good number this month (and eat away nicely at that now-just-less-than-2-metres gap on the numbers from last season at the end of February). Anyway back to today... It has been fairly mild and cloudy/overcast here at base so far this morning, with the temperature just above zero outside my place. It looks like snow is falling higher up - and snow is on the forecast on and off for the day today. Doesn't feel too windy down here early on but I see that Niseko Village are reporting northerly winds up to 16m/s and wind conditions are preventing some of the top lifts from opening this morning. --- It is extremely sad of course to hear about the skier passing away after hitting a tree yesterday. Do take care out there, and be sure to read the Avalanche Report below. --- Resort specific lift opening news at time of writing (subject to change during the day): Niseko Grand Hirafu The top Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 lifts are on hold at the start of the day due to strong winds. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Appears to be planning on being open as normal at the start of the day. Niseko Village The Niseko Gondola and Wonderland Chair lifts are on hold at the start of the day. Niseko Annupuri Appears to be planning on being open as normal at the start of the day. --- Niseko Avalanche Report: Niseko base 6am: -2℃, 10cm snowfall, 40cm snowdrift. Moiwa 848m: -4.8℃, WSW14.2m/s, 20cm snowfall with large development of snowdrift. Benkei cape: NW7m/s, Kamui cape: SE3m/s, 1006hPa, wave height unknown. Hirafu peak ridge: -8℃, strong easterly gusts and developing snowdrifts. Annupuri 1150m: -7℃, NE15m/s, 50cm and larger snowdrifts in various areas. A Low is rapidly passing along the pacific coast. Heavy stormy conditions in the mountains, generating drastic development of snowdrifts in leeward slopes above 800m elevation. The avalanche risk is very high. Prominent trigger layer is Feb 20th pre-low-pressure snowfall. Snowdrifts have reach 100+cm thickness in some areas, 50cm or thicker surface slide avalanches are to be highly considered in Annupuri O-sawa cornice area, Backbowl sidewalls 1000m area, west ridge area, Mikaeri bowl upper area. Peak gates will be closed, please do not cross boundary ropes. Many of the avalanche accidents occur when snowdrifts are developing exponentially. Better let the snow stabilize for a while after the wind calms down and lifts start running. Uneven snowdrifts are also present in the treeruns, trick conditions, be careful. A skier passed away hitting a tree in Higashi-One yesterday. It is very unfortunate and we would like express our deepest sympathy to the family. This information is issued not only to prevent avalanche accidents, but all incidents in the out of bounds area. Road conditions are also treacherous today, drive in controllable speed. --- Official resort snow depths as of Sunday 21st February 2016: Niseko Grand Hirafu & Hanazono Top - 350cm Base - 150cm Niseko Village Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri Top - 350cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2015-2016 season Data as of Sunday 21st February 2016 Total snowfall at base so far 805cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 63 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 38cm (17th February) November 2015 snowfall 61cm reported on 4 days December 2015 snowfall 244cm reported on 17 days January 2016 snowfall 303cm reported on 26 days February 2016 snowfall 197cm 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