8 cm of new snow in the past 24 hrs pushed the season total in Higashiyama village beyond 10 m
Expecting large Chinese New Year crowds in Niseko Hirafu I drove over to Niseko Hanazono to start my day.
It was a good call with quiet slopes all morning and untracked turns in the trees after lunch.
There were mixed snow conditions in the trees with spongy powder sandwiched between soft light powder on top and a crusty base below.
Cooler temperatures are forecast for tomorrow (Tuesday 04 February) with sunshine and light snow showers in the day.
With the wind speeds down to 15 km/h and improved visibility the upper lifts should operate opening up the whole of the Niseko United ski area.