More than four and half metres of snow at Niseko

“Its been a wild couple of days here in Niseko and pretty much all of Hokkaido with an intense blizzard raging,” said SkiJapan.com’s snow reporter Rod White.

“This morning, the chronic conditions have abated where we have snow falling vertically instead of horizontal and winds have backed off on the mountain where we should see most lifts running today offering truly amazing skiing and riding conditions.  

The resort mountain base pack, especially upper mountain will have seen a massive drift transformation over the last 2-3 days and a further 30-40cm from base to top.

“Currently we have ambient temps at base of minus 4c with 10c below zero at top. Its still coming down steadily as this report goes to post with jet stream in from the NW at calm -5k down low with variable gusts from 15-30k up high. Chill factor is around 20 under so best layer up and carry that mask and maybe that snorkel. Back country and the gates to heaven should be opening very soon.

“A milder head to the front followed by super cold temps on Sunday Monday with steady snow to keep dropping for about a week….again ! How good is this.

“Today will be epic so no faffing – Head up and get amongst some of the best snow on the planet. As always, Please Ride Wisely.”

Footnote: The Australian skiers and boarders currently at Niseko are experiencing what this group of connected ski areas is renowned for. Sure will be a very White Christmas!