Well, folks, I think it is fair to say that Japan clicked into 'spring' early this year and this last week we have been enjoying lots of blue skies and sunshine over the region. It has been getting rather warm too. Warmer than we would like as the snow has been melting - getting to almost 20 degrees in some not too distant areas.

It's kind of hard to believe but some forecasts are saying we might get some snow tonight! Hmmmm.

Whatever happens on that score, more sun is forecast tomorrow and over the weekend.

Still. There's still a fair amount of snow around on the courses.

A number of the resort areas of Shiga Kogen close for the season at the end of Sunday.

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Planned closing date information for the ski areas around Shiga Kogen. Note that all are subject to change.

At least part open daily until Sunday 1st April:

Sun Valley
Maruike
Hasuike
Giant
Higashitateyama
Hoppo Bunadaira
Nishitateyama

At least part open daily until Sunday 1st April; then open on some days (mostly weekends and Golden Week) until Sunday 6th May:

Takamagahara Mammoth
Tannenomori
Ichinose Family
Terakoya
Ichinose Diamond
Yakebitaiyama

As least part open daily until 6th May; then part open from 7th May:

Okushiga Kogen
Kumanoyu
Yokoteyama & Shibutoge

Details of ski lift operations during the months of April and May will be posted by the end of March