Japow Unleashed! The Fastest Snowfall in 20 Years Takes Over

December Snow Depth Hits 140cm! Hanazono’s Best December Season Kickoff

Great news for powder lovers! Since the season opened on December 4, Niseko Hanazono Resort has been blessed with nonstop snow, and the snow depth is increasing at the fastest rate in the resort’s history. We've now hit 142 cm of snow, smashing the record for the most snow in December in the past 20 years. The legendary, light, dry ‘Japow’ that Niseko is famous for is in top form, delivering perfect conditions to enjoy from morning till night.

The La Niña Winter

Before the season kicked off, we were all buzzing about the La Niña phenomenon, which was expected to bring more snow than usual. While the snow arrived later than expected, causing a slight delay in the opening until December 4, it piled up fast once it started falling. By December 4, we were able to open a few runs, and every day felt like a powder dream. By December 12, all runs at Hanazono were open, and by December 18, the snow depth hit 142 cm—marking the highest snowfall for December since Hanazono’s opening.

Even more impressive, Niseko (Kutchan) has surpassed Shumarinai (known as the snowiest spot in Hokkaido) to top the snowfall charts. This just shows how incredible the snow is this season. We can confidently say that this is one of the best season starts in recent memory!

Actually, this number reflects the snow depth measured at the weather station in the town. The snow on the mountain where the ski resort is located is much deeper, nearing 200cm. If you'd like to check the snow depth on the mountain, just click the button below to see the details.

The Arrival of #Japow

Thanks to the continued influence of La Niña, Niseko is set to receive even more snow in the coming weeks. This phenomenon creates the perfect conditions for the legendary “Japow”—light, dry powder snow that’s synonymous with the Niseko area. The term "Japow" is a combination of "Japan" and "powder," and it refers to the famously fluffy, dry snow that blankets the mountains here. It’s every skier and snowboarder’s dream snow. With La Niña’s ongoing impact, we can expect even more snow to accumulate, and the opportunity to experience Niseko's world-famous ‘Japow’ is right at your doorstep—get ready for the ride of a lifetime!

What’s the Snow Forecast?

On December 18, we hit the highest snow depths we’ve seen in the last 20 years, and as I write this, the snow is still falling outside. Depending on how the storm tracks, we could surpass the 151 cm snowfall recorded on December 29, 2017. With even more top-quality powder on the way, the slopes of Niseko are turning into a true ‘Japow’ paradise, offering endless fun for riders of all levels. This is exactly why riders from all over the world flock to Niseko.

The snow conditions are just going to keep improving, and Niseko’s winter is about to get even better. We can’t wait to welcome you for the ultimate winter experience!