Niseko receives over 4m of snow so far: Winter 20/21

We don't want to cause you too much FOMO but... this Winter is good so far - really good!

Excluding a freak dump around the 9th (which was a wonderful taste of what was to come), November left much to be desired when it came to snowfall. But once December came, the switch was well and truly flicked - it was Japow time.

Niseko saw the first of many strong storms to descend on the mountain at the beginning of the month, and all 4 resorts finally opened on December 5th, 2020. Many anxious locals and day trippers lined up for first lifts, and enjoyed some long overdue turns in the light and fluffy Niseko powder.

And since then, we're happy to report that there've been very few days without snowfall, and when it snows, it snow hard - meaning there's plenty of sweet powder to enjoy. Each weekend so far, a heavy snowstorm comes over the region, giving us cm upon cm of snow, plus healthy top ups throughout the week. As 2020 wrapped up, SnowJapan.com reported a cumulative snowfall of 410cm for December, and with their measuring station at the base of the mountain, we suspect there's a lot more up around the top lifts of the resort.

So far in January, the snow hasn't stopped, except for a stellar bluebird day on the 2nd, which made for dreamlike conditions with deeeeeeeep snow and perfect visibility. Another large storm is on the horizon this weekend, with Snow-Forecast.com currently predicting over 50cm of snow to fall between Thursday and Sunday.

Japanuary has just started, and we can't wait to see what the rest of this Winter brings. With 60cm already recorded by SnowJapan.com, we're welcoming an extra snowy season after 19/20 gave us one of the driest on record.

This season the resorts and accommodation providers are also making concerted efforts to ensure social distancing and COVID safety rules (such as mask wearing) are being followed. This combined with low international guest numbers means, while very calm compared to regular seasons, this Winter will hopefully be safe and sensible while everyone enjoys the snow.