Once-in-20-Years Snowfall Sets the Stage for Niseko’s 2025 Season - MountainWatch Travel
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Once-in-20-Years Snowfall Sets the Stage for Niseko’s 2025 Season

Niseko’s Just Getting Started!

As we gear up to welcome 2025, Niseko is already celebrating with one of its best early-season snow starts in years! 

By December 17th, the area had recorded an incredible 142cm of snow—its deepest early-season snowfall in over 70 years. Local reports call the conditions “ridiculous… in the best possible way,” with a staggering 291cm already covering the Higashiyama base. Niseko is setting records left, right, and centre!

But let’s be honest: numbers alone don’t tell the full story. It’s not just the snow totals—it’s the overall vibe within the resorts. Niseko is already delivering waist-deep Ja-POW, conditions usually reserved for peak season, and even the most seasoned riders are raving about it.

Deep turns during the first week of December perfectly captured by Henry (@late2wenty).

Epic Snowfall Continues!

And the best part? This is just the beginning! Snowstorm cycles are continuing to build a deep base, with rare breaks in the snow. Monday offers a brief respite—fingers, toes, skis, and boards crossed for the first bluebird powder day of the season!

The draw of Niseko isn’t just about its snow totals. Known for consistent powder, diverse terrain, and vibrant après-ski scene, Niseko is always a favourite for all levels of rider during the silly season. 

What To Expect From New Year’s In Niseko:

If you’re in Niseko to ring in the New Year, you’re in luck! The conditions are perfect for getting first tracks or exploring Niseko’s world-renowned backcountry. The snow shows no signs of slowing down, promising epic conditions as we head into January and February— historically, the most powder-filled snowiest months.

Read on for the planned activities and events for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day!

Hanazono:

Niseko’s favourite holiday event features a dazzling fireworks display synced to festive music on December 28th and 31st at Hanazono Resort! 

For more information, start times and other details, see here.

Hanazono Resort’s Impressive Fireworks Display is sure to delight! Image: Hanazono Resort.

Grand Hirafu: 

Start 2025 with a perfect blend of tradition and celebration! Experience the vibrant energy of Taiko drumming on the slopes, marvel at a dazzling fireworks display, and toast the New Year with a traditional “Kagami-Biraki” sake tasting on January 1st.

For the full list of events, and schedule, please visit Grand Hirafu’s website here.

New Years Taiko Drumming. Image: Experience Niseko.

Annupuri:

Ring in 2025 with Annupuri’s Night Rider! Free night riding until 11 PM, followed by flaming torches lighting up the slopes, and an epic fireworks show to cap it all off.

More information, see here.

Torchlight skiers in formation to create the New Year. Image: Niseko United

Niseko Village:

Start your New Year the right way with Taiko drumming at Niseko Yo and the chance to get the first tracks of 2025 via the sunrise gondola at 6:30 AM. 

More information, see here.

Mt Yotei sunrise – Image: Marriot

Niseko Live Snow Updates

Want to stay in the loop? Niseko United’s live web cams are a perfect way to view live snow conditions in all four resorts. 

Also, don’t forget to check out Grasshopper’s weekly snow reports on Mountainwatch for detailed information on snow depths, temperatures, and the latest weather outlooks all throughout Japan.

Final Forecast – We’re Just Getting Started!

Looking ahead, Niseko is set for MUCH more snow, with forecasts predicting continued heavy snowfall throughout the week and into the New Year.

If this early-season snow is any indication, it’s shaping up to be one of the best years yet for Niseko’s legendary powder. Already planning your trip? Be sure to check out our Essential Guide to Niseko here, for all the tips you need for an amazing holiday.

Haven’t booked yet? Don’t worry—there’s still time! Click below to inquire about our last remaining packages for Niseko this season.

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