Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 849cm Posted on Wednesday 4th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Just a fairly thin layer of snow since yesterday - that early snowfall didn't really end up amounting to much in the end. Likely more higher up than down here of course. Light snowfall has been easing off this morning with clearer conditions now expected during the day today. So we might get some sunshine and clear skies today and tomorrow as well. Temperatures will hopefully remain in negative numbers. Looks like the wind isn't going to be a problem and there should be a calmer feel to proceedings over the next few days. That should be nice, but what about the snow? Well, look towards later in the day on Saturday for the start of what might potentially be a very decent snowfall coming out way. --- Anyone see the piece that NHK TV did last night after the 7pm news about the increase in popularity of backcountry in Japan? I didn’t know that it was going to be - would have mentioned in advance if I had, so sorry about that. With more people going out of bounds – and sadly in many cases without the knowledge and equipment needed to be safe - there has been an increase in unfortunate accidents, and even fatalities this season down in Nagano and Niigata. As well as giving some background to the situation and appeal of backcountry, they mentioned the Niseko Rules and gate system as a success story in avoiding fatalities since it started. They also showed Shinya-san up there at 5am in the morning checking on the snow and safety situation, making the decisions about gate openings, and him and his colleagues out there taking the time to communicate with folk venturing out of the gates. Otsukaresama deshita to all involved. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to open as planned this morning. Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to open as planned this morning. Niseko Village: Looks set to open as planned this morning. 'Early Morning Gondola' on Saturday (7th) and Sunday (8th) for 1300 yen, Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to open as planned this morning. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, light snowfall in the past 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NNW10m/s, 5cm snowfall with 40cm snowdrift development. Annupuri 1150m: N10m/s, -12C, large development of snowdrifts. Hirafu ridge: strong northerly wind, -13C, light development of snowdrifts. Coastal data: Benkei cape NE10m/s, Kamui cape E4m/s, 1022hPa, 1.3m waves. Intermittent northerly gusts continue above 800m. Cornices and snowdrifts are growing large in western areas above 800m. According to observation and snowfall transition, the snowpack is stabilizing, however avalanches are still likely to occur in heavy snowdrift loaded slopes such as 900m Osawa cornice slopes, Kozan no sawa (Backbowl). DO NOT traverse under cornices, it will trigger a slide. Hard-slabs slides triggered by collapsing crust layer are also to be expected in Higashi-One cornice slopes. A thin slide can easily carry a person all the way down to the bottom of the valley. Peak gates 2 & 3 are scheduled to open. Listen to the ski patrol’s instruction before stepping out of the gates. Avalanches are natural occurrences, they only become an accident when a human being is involved in it. Better not underestimate the consequences, always think safety first. Niseko respects the freedom to ride the out of bounds area, however is also deeply concerned about all users’ safety. The snow in the tree is mostly reset and in good condition. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 125cm Niseko Village: Top - 280cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Wednesday 4th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 849cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 57 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 43cm 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 846cm Posted on Tuesday 3rd February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from my base here in Hirafu, it's another cold and windy one but importantly there's another 15cm of fresh snow on the ground to report this morning... and I would imagine more being added to that quite quickly as well this morning if it carries on like it is now. The pesky winds are messing with us once again unfortunately with lift disruption at the beginning of the day including all three gondolas. Hopefully it will improve this morning and the forecast does seem to point to a decent chance of that happening along with a break in the snowfall and maybe even a bit of blue sky appearing. Calmer and clearer skies expected tomorrow as well. Next decent snow up after that at the end of the week into the weekend. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: The Gondola, King Number 3, King Number 4, Ace Number 4 and Swingling Monkey lifts on hold due to wind situation. Niseko Hanazono: Top Hanazono Number 3 lift on hold due to wind situation. Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland Chair lift on hold due to wind. 'Early Morning Gondola' on Saturday (7th) and Sunday (8th) for 1300 yen, Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am. Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola and Top Jumbo Number 4 lift on hold due to wind. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 15cm crystal snowfall in 12 hours, Moiwa 800m: N12m/s, -10C, 20cm snowfall with 60cm snowdrifts, poor visibility. Annupuri 1150m: N15-20m/s, 20cm snowfall with large development of snowdrifts. Hirafu 1000m: NE15m/s, -11C, 15cm snowfall with snowdrifts development. Annupuri peak N18.5m/s, -13.5C. Coastal data: Benkei cape ENE12m/s, Kamui cape ESE4m/s, 1022hPa, 2.6m waves. The isobars are spacing out, however the northerly wind remains high above 1000m altitude and snow deposit is larger in the western areas. 60cm softslabs has developed in leeward 800-1000m slopes and are likely to collapse with light stimulation. Snow has been blown away in Higashi-One area and wind-ripples are forming, making it difficult to ride. The avalanche risk is high in 1000m cornice slopes and knolls. Slides would be triggered by failure of weak lines within the Feb 2nd layer. Caution is required even in slopes with thin deposit; surface slab avalanches can occur regardless the amount of snow on top. Peak gates (2 & 3) will be kept closed, others to be determined. Please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. One track left under the rope would lead many others to do the same and increase the chances of accidents to happen. Please respect the Niseko Rules. Beware of falling into cracks forming in various areas. Cracks are difficult to see from above. The snow in the trees is in excellent condition. Have you switched your beacon on? It is not mandatory to carry one, however is strongly recommended. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 125cm Niseko Village: Top - 280cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 280cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Tuesday 3rd February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 846cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 56 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 40cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 15cm Snowfall at base this season 821cm Posted on Sunday 1st February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko on this first day of February. February already?! (I'll be taking a look at the final numbers for January in my report tomorrow morning). It's snowing quite heavily out there this morning and there's a good 15cm (and counting) of snow on the top of my parked car outside at the moment. Cold, snowy and... unfortunately the strong winds are still with us and stopping some lifts from getting going again. Top lifts at all four resort areas as well as the gondolas at Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Village are affected at the start of the day. Similar kind of conditions forecast through the day today and tomorrow as well, with things easing off by Tuesday. It's great to get new fresh snowfall, and conditions should be fun this morning... justgo away winds! --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Top King Number 4, King Number 3 and Ace Number 4 lifts on hold due to weather conditions. 'Early Morning' lift available daily until 1st February (for 500 yen, Ace Quad Number 2 lift from 8am until 8:20am). Niseko Hanazono: Top Hanazono Number 3 lift on hold. Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland lift on hold early on due to strong winds. 'Early Morning Gondola' available Saturdays and Sundays until February 8th (for 1300 yen, Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am). Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola and top Jumbo Number 4 lifts on hold due to strong winds. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, 15cm of crushed crystal snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NE18m/s, -7C, 50cm of snowdrifts. Annupuri 1000m: N15m/s, -10C, 50cm of snowdrift, 275cm snowpack. Hirafu 1000m: strong NE wind, -8C, developing snowdrifts. Peak anemometer: NNW19.2m/s at 6am. Coastal data: Benkei cape E14m/s, Kamui cape ENE6m/s, 1-14hPa, 2.1m waves. Strong NE wind generated large development of unstable snowdrifts, easily sliding from Jan 31st layer. Hard-slabs and cornices in Osawa ad Mikaeri bowl that formed in a short period of time are very unstable. Avalanche risk is high in those slopes today. The wind will shift to north, then to westerly and snowdrifts will develop accordingly. Beware. Peak gates scheduled to be kept closed. A decent dump has finally come, however it’s better to stay in the trees and course-side powder areas for now. The new snow is a bit shallow but pretty good. Many of the avalanche accidents occur in leeward slopes during a storm. Sunlight is weak and the surface is hard to see. Stay in control, be prudent and ride safe. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 350cm Base - 130cm Niseko Village: Top - 280cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 275cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Sunday 1st February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 821cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 54 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 15cm reported on 1 day Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 3cm Snowfall at base this season 852cm Posted on Saturday 7th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here After the fine day yesterday and no snowfall last night, we have been snowed from early this morning and it's continuing to snow now. 15cm at Moiwa 800m from 4am according to the Avalanche Report (below), just a few down here so far. Lots more of that please. Forecasts seem to say that the main event - in terms of snowfall - is from tomorrow onwards. Today is more cloud and milder conditions with temperatures set to dip to proper cold from tomorrow evening. So don't worry if we don't get much out of it today because it does look like it really is on the way. I'm hoping to be able to get back to reporting impressive numbers to you. Anyway, I hope you have a good day and I'll update you with the latest tomorrow morning. --- I'm off to the Sapporo Snow Festival today with a few friends. I hear the Star Wars one is particularly impressive, even if I'd prefer Trek myself. This famous and very popular snow festival is held in Sapporo City and for the 66th this year, running through until Wednesday 11th February. Can't be missed in Odori Park, the grounds at Community Dome Tsudome, and along the main street in Susukino. Usually well worth a visit. Actually I think that Sapporo is well worth a visit even without the snow festival! --- Resort specific news as of 8am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to open as planned this morning. Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to open as planned this morning. Niseko Village: Looks set to open as planned this morning. Last chance for the 'Early Morning Gondola' tomorrow - 1300 yen, Niseko Gondola open from 7:30am until 8:30am. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to open as planned this morning. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 5cm snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: W5m/s, -7C, 15cm snowfall from 4am. Annupuri 1000m snowpack 275cm. Hirafu 1000m: light breeze, 5cm snowfall. Peak: W6.3m/s, -9.6C. Coastal data: Benkei cape SW2m/s, Kamui cape WSW2m/s, 1017hPa, 0.7m waves. Pre-low pressure system snowfall started from predawn and left 15cm of snow around 700m altitude. The course condition is a little softer/better, but the tracks in the trees haven’t been recovered. The general avalanche risk is low, however shallow slides are to be expected in south facing steep slopes once the sun warms up the surface. Peak gates are scheduled to open, seek for the ski patrol’s advice before stepping out of the gates. Always stay alert; one moment of inattention can end up in an accident. Beware of trees and cracks. One injury can put an end to your season. Niseko community respects all visitors’ freedom, but is also deeply concerned about their safety. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 370cm Base - 135cm Niseko Village: Top - 280cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 285cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Saturday 7th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 852cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 58 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 46cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 862cm Posted on Monday 9th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here I'm happy to report some fresh snow this morning. I have just got back from Hakodate and so I missed out on most of yesterdays warmth and (apparently) bit of wet as well. Would like more than the 10cm there is here, and it should be here today. Snow is being blown around though as well so difficult to put one number on it... the Avalanche Report this morning is recording up to 25cm of fresh snowfall. Right now though there's actually some breaks in the cloud, some blue sky and a bit of sunshine which wasn't quite expected, but the next snow clouds should be over us and delivering pretty quickly. Still hoping/expecting/praying for decent snow to fall over the next 2 days. It's very cold this morning as well which is good after the warmth of yesterday but alas, I need to mention the wind again as we have top lifts on hold at the start of the day because of them. Come on Niseko.... deliver, please! If not for me, for all the good folk visiting. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: King Number 4, Ace Number 4 and King 3 lifts on hold due to strong winds. Niseko Hanazono: Hanazono Number 3 lift on hold due to strong winds. Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland Chair lifts on hold due to weather conditions. Niseko Annupuri: Possibly late start for some lifts. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, moderate storm, 25cm snowfall in 12 hours with snowdrift and cornice developments. Moiwa 800m NW18m/s, -11C, strong wind and snowfall, poor visibility and developed snowdrifts. Annupuri 1000m snowpack 280cm. Hirafu 1000m: -11C, strong wind with developing snowdrifts. Peak 1308m: unmeasurable, -15.8C. Coastal data: Benkei cape NW24m/s, Kamui cape WSW17m/s, 996hPa, 3.2m waves. A strong storm has made windload/snowdrifts develop in all areas. The newly formed snowdrift slabs reached up to 140cm thickness in some leeward knolls around 800m altitude, sitting on top of warm temperature (Feb 8th) layer. Those slabs are still very unstable and the avalanche hazard in leeward steep slopes is high. According to snowfall transition and observations, possibility of a large-scale avalanche is high in 700m leeward valleys. All gates above 800m will be closed. Avalanche risk is similarly high in all areas around Niseko. The storm is forecasted to continue and the avalanche risk will remain high a while after the wind calm down. Many of the avalanche accidents occur during and just after storms. Better stay away from cornice slopes, knolls and valley bottom even if the chairlifts starts running. The snow will get better soon. Have a safe day. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 125cm Niseko Village: Top - 280cm Base - 180cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 285cm Base - 160cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 9th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 862cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 59 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 56cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 872cm Posted on Tuesday 10th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from my Hirafu base with more fresh snow to report and very cold temperatures. -17 degrees being reported by Niseko Village and Annupuri areas this morning on their upper slopes. Again not a huge amount of fresh down here, but it's snowing now and there's a solid 10cm here at base and as you can see from the report below there's more being reported around the mountain, so conditions should be pretty good this morning - especially higher up. I will have to go and check! It's not the most important number but just for the record the official upper snow depth at Niseko Grand Hirafu hits 400cm this morning. The forecast still has snowmen lined up each day through into the weekend so snow is expected daily - how much? We'll just have to see what we get served up. Yesterday the wind conditions prevented some lifts from getting started. How's today shaping up? Looks better this morning with all resorts open and apart from possible late starts due to some checks on the top lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu and Niseko Village, open as normal. Have a fun day! Tomorrow is a national holiday in Japan - National Foundation Day. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. Niseko Hanazono: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. Possible late start for top King 4 chair. Niseko Village: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. Possible late start for top Wonderland chair. Niseko Annupuri: Looks set to be open as planned this morning. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -11C, 20cm of snowfall in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NE5m/s, -13C, 30cm snowfall. Annupuri 1000m: W5m/s, -13C, snowpack 285cm. Hirafu 1000m: -12C. Peak 1308m: SE speed n/a, -18.6C. Coastal data: Benkei cape WNW17m/s, Kamui cape WSW18m/s, 996hPa, 1.6m waves. 30-40cm snowfall has been observed mainly in western areas. The snowdrifts are slowly developing but stabilizing at the same time. The slabs are also stabilizing, however cornices and knolls above 800m are still unstable and considerable avalanche risk remains in typical avalanche terrain. Gates opening are yet to be determined, please respect the ski patrol’s decision. Better refrain from riding high altitude open steep slopes today. The stabilization process is delayed due to low temperature and a failure from Feb 7th layer would trigger a large surface slab slide. The areas outside the gates is not the ski resort anymore, always be alert and ride cautiously. Carrying an avalanche beacon is not compulsory in the Niseko out of bounds area, however it is seriously recommended to do so to minimize the risks. Avalanche beacons may save not only your life, but your buddy’s too. Have a nice day. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Tuesday 10th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 872cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 60 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 45cm (15th and 26th December) November 2014 snowfall 30cm reported on 5 days December 2014 snowfall 519cm reported on 25 days January 2015 snowfall 257cm reported on 23 days February 2015 snowfall 66cm 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 15cm Snowfall at base this season 937cm Posted on Saturday 14th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning, and I have another 15cm of snow to report from my place here in Hirafu, with up to 30cm being reported by the mountain folk. It's a cold morning and chill factor will be an issue so be sure to get comfy before starting out. Not fun being up there and realising you're just too cold! Windy conditions again this morning with top lifts not moving at the beginning of the day and with strong winds forecast for the day and tomorrow too, not sure if there's much hope that they'll get going at all. What's this... some blue sky over there in the direction of Mt Yotei and the sun making it's way through the cloud just now. Nope, just gone back behind a cloud and just light snow falling now. I think it'll be more snow than sun today, the snow forecast to continue being over the region into tomorrow. Should be another great morning and a busy and bustling Saturday night! Hope you enjoy it. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -6C, 20cm snowfall in 12 hours with development of snowdrifts. Moiwa 800m: N10m/s, -8C, 30cm snowfall with snowdrift development. Annupuri 1000m snowpack 300cm. Hirafu 1000m NE10m/s, -8C, snowdrift development. Peak 1308m: NNW18.5m/s, -10.3C. Coastal data: Benkei cape N14m/s, Kamui cape NNE9m/s, 1002hPa, 1.7m waves. A moderate snowstorm is continuing in the winter weather pattern, 50cm soft slabs of new snowdrifts are accumulating in leeward slopes above 700m and is likely to slide from Feb 13th layer (40cm crown). The avalanche risk is high in leeward slopes, around cornices and knolls above 800m. Avoid those terrains, follow the ridge and drop into the trees from lower altitude. Better stay away from valley bottoms. Surface slab slides of 40cm crown and 100m running distance are to be highly expected in Moiwa bowl, Annupuri Osawa cornice zones, all Backbowl area and all Higashi-One area. Peak gates opening is yet to be decided, please follow the ski patrol’s instructions. All areas around Niseko are similarly hazardous, carefully plan your touring routes. The snow wind-affected, moderately packed, not to fast not too slow, tracks are overall reset and in good condition. Choose a harder wax for cold stormy days. Be safe!! --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 430cm Base - 155cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 190cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 335cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Saturday 14th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 937cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 64 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 131cm 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 2cm Snowfall at base this season 922cm Posted on Friday 13th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Hello and good morning from the Niseko area here on this Friday morning. Just a few cm of snowfall to report to you this morning. It's cloudy and light snow has been falling - not the kind right now that is going to bring in big numbers, but it's forecast to get heavier during the day today with hopefully heavy snow overnight tonight and the snow continuing over the weekend and perhaps into early next week. It's busy, busy here now - peak of the peak season and the Chinese New Year holidays. All resorts look to be open as normal this morning, so another fun day ahead. --- So far this month I have logged a total of 116cm as my observed snowfall. Last February for the whole month the corresponding observed number here at base was 178cm, which was if I remember correctly somewhat disappointing (even given the fact that we always want more!) We're not halfway through the month yet so still a long way to go. Lots of regular fresh snow please! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, light breeze, 2cm snowfall. Moiwa 800m: light breeze, -10C, light dusts. Hirafu 1000m: W7m/s, -10C. Peak 1308m: northerly, speed n/a, -10.9C. Coastal data: Benkei cape S3m/s, Kamui cape WSW8m/s, 1005hPa, 0.8m waves. The snowpack above Feb 7th layer is now mostly stable and the general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates 2 & 3 are scheduled to open. Listen to the ski patrol’s instruction and be prepared before stepping out of the gates. Traversing under cornices is total lack of common sense; we wonder if those who do have ever imagined the consequences and the risks they’re taking. The past avalanche accidents in Niseko have all been triggered by those nonsense traverses. Avalanches don’t happen all the time, but will do when the conditions allow. You might luckily get away, but people who follow your track may be caught in one. You are morally responsible of the results. There are so many people visiting Niseko; whether being a total beginner or experienced mountain skier, the value of one Life is equally precious. We beg you to, please, not make those awful traverse track from gate no.2 across O-sawa (Annupuri bowl) to the Western Ridge. Have a nice day. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 430cm Base - 160cm Niseko Village: Top - 300cm Base - 190cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 335cm Base - 200cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 13th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 922cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 63 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 116cm 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 3cm Snowfall at base this season 920cm Posted on Thursday 12th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here After that significant delivery of snow I reported yesterday, not that much more since then... just a few cm or so. And the sun is out now after a more overcast start earlier. Blue skies and just a bit of cloud remaining. What a day yesterday was! Fantastic conditions out on the mountain. Today should be more of that with only a light wind and the sun shining down on us. I hope you can get to enjoy it before the next snow which is due tomorrow. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -7C, light breeze, 2cm snowfall. Moiwa 800m: light breeze, -10C, light dusts. Hirafu 1000m: W7m/s, -10C. Peak 1308m: northerly, speed n/a, -10.9C. Coastal data: Benkei cape S3m/s, Kamui cape WSW8m/s, 1005hPa, 0.8m waves. The snowpack above Feb 7th layer is now mostly stable and the general avalanche risk is low. Peak gates 2 & 3 are scheduled to open. Listen to the ski patrol’s instruction and be prepared before stepping out of the gates. Traversing under cornices is total lack of common sense; we wonder if those who do have ever imagined the consequences and the risks they’re taking. The past avalanche accidents in Niseko have all been triggered by those nonsense traverses. Avalanches don’t happen all the time, but will do when the conditions allow. You might luckily get away, but people who follow your track may be caught in one. You are morally responsible of the results. There are so many people visiting Niseko; whether being a total beginner or experienced mountain skier, the value of one Life is equally precious. We beg you to, please, not make those awful traverse track from gate no.2 across O-sawa (Annupuri bowl) to the Western Ridge. Have a nice day. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Thursday 12th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 920cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 62 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 114cm 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 10cm Snowfall at base this season 967cm Posted on Tuesday 24th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Fresh snow! I wouldn't usually get so excited around 10cm or so of snowfall that may not be quite classic Niseko quality, but with the lack of fresh over the last week it's just really great to see snow back with us... and hopefully will be the start of more to come. The folk lining up for first lifts tells me that others feel the same way. It's snowing pretty good heavily now actually. Please continue! The Report below mentioning 20cm of fresh over at Moiwa. :) It's a bit colder too as you might expect this morning. Come on snow, stay with us! If the forecast is correct it should be snowing through until tomorrow and then around Friday. Temperatures are remaining borderline mild, so fingers crossed things go the colder way. (It's the best way, easy). For now though I imagine fresh tracks will very quickly be made this morning so get up there earlier if you want to try and get some. --- Wind played around with lifts yesterday but some got moving. The Annupuri Gondola stopped shortly after 10am but by mid morning Hirafu was open apart from the top Ace and King Number 4 lifts, with the Ace and King 3 moving at reduced speed. The Hanazono top lift also got started just before 11am. Top lifts affected this morning again by wind, though less than yesterday. See below for details as at 8:30am. --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Top Ace Number 4 and King Number 4 lifts on hold at the start of the day due to wind. Niseko Hanazono: All lifts look set to be operating as normal from the start this morning. Niseko Village: Top Wonderland Chair will be on hold Niseko Annupuri: Top Jumbo Number 4 lift on hold early on due to strong wind. --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -4C, 10cm of new snowfall in last 12 hrs, wet broken crystals and hail. Moiwa 800m: SW5m/s, 20cm new snowfall and snowdrifts, -6C, bad visibility. Annupuri 1000m: snowpack 300cm. Hirafu 1000m: 10cm new snow, -6C. Annupuri peak 1308m: wind SW speed not avail, -8.3℃. Cape Benkei: WNW14m/s, Cape Kamui: WSW16m/s, pressure 1005hPa, wave 1.8m. The powder came back! Strong SW wind and snowdrifts developing slowly above 800m. Knolls and steep slopes around 800m will easily fracture at Feb 21-22 layer. The depth is expected to be less than 30cm, however still dangerous. The snow in forest is good. All gates are expected to be open. Please listen to the patrols advice and be prepared before riding out of bounds. Always be aware on knoll and cornice slopes, ride one by one. The valley bottoms are the path of potential large scale avalanches, dont stop in them. Yesterday over 8 people entered strictly off limits area Yu no sawa. A lot of people work hard to protect your right to ride out of bounds in Niseko. Please dont disrespect them, follow the rules and help keep Niseko free. --- Official resort snow depths: Grand Hirafu / Hanazono: Top - 380cm Base - 135cm Niseko Village: Top - 290cm Base - 170cm Niseko Annupuri: Top - 340cm Base - 170cm Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Tuesday 24th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 967cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 67 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 161cm reported on 14 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com

Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 5cm Snowfall at base this season 957cm Posted on Monday 16th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here There's not a whole lot of new snow to report this morning, I think 5cm is a fair number for round here at base but that wind we have been having has been blowing it all around and generally being really annoying. Grrrrr. Yesterday, the Ace Number 2 Center Four lift got moving just before 9am, but Swinging Monkey and Ace Number 3 didn't get moving at the beginning of the day and from about 10am Hanazono had all three of it's lifts closed. Looks like some disruption to lifts again this morning (noted below), but lets keep fingers crossed that the wind might calm later in the day today. The forecasts gives us a bit of hope for that. With avalanche risk high, it looks like most gates will be closed. It is cloudy just now - looks like it might be snowing up there - and quite mild with the temperature here around 0 degrees. Forecasts do indeed give us the chance of light snow during the day. OK, so from tomorrow things look set to calm down good and proper. In fact, from tomorrow right through until the weekend the forecast seems to be lots of sunny conditions, calm, relatively mild and no (or little) snowfall likely. Just as long as the snow is back soon, I think we can all enjoy some of that. Cameras at the ready! --- Resort specific news as of 8:30am - subject to change during the day Niseko Grand Hirafu: Ace Number 3 and 4, King Number 3 and 4, Swinging Monkey lifts on hold early on due to strong wind Niseko Hanazono: Top Hanazono Number 3 lift on hold early on due to strong wind Niseko Village: Niseko Gondola and top Wonderland lift on hold early on due to strong wind Niseko Annupuri: Annupuri Gondola and top Jumbo 4 lift on hold early on due to strong wind --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -2C, 50cm snowdrift deposit in 12 hours. Moiwa 800m: NNW12m/s, -8C, large developent of dense snowdrifts. Annupuri 1000m: -7C, N15m/s with gusts, large development of snowdrifts and cornices, snowpack 320cm. Hirafu 1000m: N15m/s, -7C, large development of snowdrifts in some areas. Benkei cape NNE9m/s, Kamui cape E5m/s, 1013hPa, 3.2m waves. Snowdrifts and cornices have largely developed overnight. New slabs thickness have exceeded 150cm in 800m leeward knolls and are extremely unstable, likely to widely slide with a 60cm crown. The avalanche risk in Niseko and the surrounding peaks is extremely high, most gates will be kept closed today. Better not fully rely on quick and easy pit-checks for decision making, a slab that may look stable could let go and cause a fatal slide. Many cases of backcountry touring accidents in surrounding peaks are being reported. It’s a bit of a shame to get injured while playing in the mountains. Never overestimate your knowledge/skills or underestimate the hazards of winter mountains. We only hope that no Niseko residents/visitors is involved in a fatal accident. Have a safe day. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Monday 16th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 957cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 66 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 151cm 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 0cm Snowfall at base this season 957cm Posted on Friday 20th February 2015 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Morning from Hirafu. A mix of weather going on this morning. Cloud, trying to snow (and actually snowing lightly higher up I am told), but the sun managing to appear as well in places. Over towards Mt Yotei, that mountain is looking rather handsome as well (but doesn't it always). I reckon it's going to clear up and be blue skies and sunny by late morning. Light wind here at base but resorts are reporting more up there at upper elevations. All resorts opening as normal this morning and it would appear the gates will be open too. Have fun and take care. When's our fresh snow coming!? Mild conditions probably lasting over the weekend, there may even be some rain on Sunday, but we should see snow back falling from the skies and a dip in temperatures again early week. Phew! --- Niseko Avalanche Report Niseko base 6am: -5C, no new snowfall. Moiwa 800m: N8m/s, -8C, trace new snow. Hirafu 1000m: snowpack 320cm, NNW10m/s, -8C, trace new snow. Annupuri peak 1308m: N15.1m/s, -9.6C. Cape Benkei: E6m/s, Cape Kamui: E2m/s, 1022hPa, wave 1.3m. At upper elevations the wind has picked up and there has been some snowdrift development above 800m. The 20th Feb layer will be notable in the future snowpack. The general avalanche risk is low. All gates are expected to be open. During an average winter full depth avalanches are expected in Osawa, Kozan no sawa during early April, however due to this year's warm winter there is the possibility of them earlier – from late February to early March. Cracks and other evidence of the snowpack shifting are indications of possible deep avalanches. These avalanches release without warning from the heavily loaded ridge lines are devastating to the forest and anyone caught below. Steep south facing valleys around 1100m are the usual dangers zones , but these avalanches are difficult to predict. They can happen at an time of day, regardless of temperature and often occur with no visible signs such as cracks. We need to be especially careful due to the unusual snow fall pattern this year. This type of avalanche is like an angry giant smashing everything in its path. Always be aware, avoid the valley bottoms and don’t put yourselves in dangerous place. Please listen to the patrols advice before passing through the gates. Niseko Now 2014-2015 season Data as of Friday 20th February 2015 Total snowfall at base so far 957cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 66 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 151cm 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