Base up top: 170 cm Temp Top; -7 Degrees
Base at bottom; 65 cm
New Snow since close: 45 cm
Weather; Moderate snow
Looks like snow has persisted here in Nozawa Onsen for about the past 24 hours. In total 45cm fell overnight adding to what fell throughout yesterday. Snowfall rates increased during the evening with heavier falls below localised thunderstorm activity. When we woke this morning and up until the current time (10am) moderate snows were continuing to fall.
The best skiing on offer today should be found on the higher reaches of the mountain where an excellent base has formed. The Yamabiko trees will be the best to take advantage of all the fresh powder on offer and the groomed runs will be silky smooth, perfect for a relaxing cruise around the mountain.
Today marks the day where almost all of the mountain has opened excluding only the Karasawa pistes. Perfect timing for those coming to Nozawa over the Christmas period.
The forecast suggests snowfalls with gradually decrease throughout the day before the weather clears briefly tomorrow. Looking further ahead we can expect further light snow showers on Tuesday. Another sizeable dump is looking possible for boxing day, next week.
Now THAT is the sort of snow report everyone likes (especially those of us visiting Villa Nozawa just after boxing day!)