Japanese Snow Days

Depending on where you are in Japan, you can experience a lot of snowfall. Asahikawa experiences the most snowfall per year, annually getting 148.8 inches (378 centimeters).

Hokkaido receives some of the highest rates of snowfall annually. Other areas of Japan such as Kyushu Island and Fukuoka rarely experience any snow at all. The areas of Japan that do get snow look beautiful in the winter, emphasizing the already spectacular landscapes.

Snow season in Japan typically falls from mid-December to late March or early April. The peak of the season for snowfall is from mid-January to late February and is the best time to enjoy winter sports. Sometimes this snow can be overbearing, causing destruction and difficulty living out everyday life. As a result, methods such as warm water sprinklers and heated roads have been snow-management methods to make transportation during these massive snowstorms achievable.

At the end of 2021, a massive winter storm made traveling at the peak of the holiday season very difficult. Flights were canceled, trains were delayed, and highways were closed as record levels of snowfall covered Japan. Snowfall in certain areas of Japan is comparable to that in New York State,

where similar transportation issues arise. In more recent years, there has been less snowfall in Japan due to climate change. Many elder Japanese people have stated how different winters are now compared to when they were growing up.

So, if you’re traveling to Japan, be aware that you may get snowed in! Plan accordingly if you are visiting in the winter by packing the proper clothes and bringing enough luggage to get you through a flight cancellation. Check the forecast, but also enjoy the winter wonderland parts of Japan during these winter months!

Writer: Kayley Hill