20 cm of fresh snow has accumulated in Niseko in the 12 hours to 7am.
Conditions at Hirafu midway station (820m)
Snowfall estimated: 30 cm
Temperature: -7.8 °C
Wind: NNW 8 m/s
Conditions observed in Niseko Town (139m)
Snowfall observed: 20 cm
Temperature: -3 °C
Wind: NW 2 m/s
It’s not snowing now and I can see mountains from my home. Yesterday was another great day. I went to Niseko Village and had lots of fun in deep powder. Super station (sorry I kept calling limited course before but it was old name) was incredible, snow was smooth and deep.
I might go Niseko Village again because I am waiting to ride at Mizuno no sawa area which is avalanche controlled. We can ride there only if the gate is opened. “Mizuno no sawa” is a big gully next to gondola, avalanche often happens naturally.
Today is New Year’s eve , called “Omisoka” in Japanese. We say “Yoi otoshi wo” to each other wishing for the coming year to be pleasurable. Soba noodles are the signature dinner menu for New Year’s Eve. Soba symbolizes a long life. Buddhist temples will perform the tolling of a bell for 108 times starting from midnight of New Year’s Eve.
Snow is taking a little break for a next couple of days. Yoi otoshi wo!!
– Maiko :)