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Dec 7, 2023 · When is the snow season in Japan? Japan’s snow season typically begins in mid- to-late December, just before Christmas, and continues through late March or early April. This will vary from resort to resort based on the actual snow conditions. The season peaks from mid-January to late February.
Jul 22, 2023 · Japan’s snow season generally starts in late December and lasts through February, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in regions along the Sea of Japan. But if you’re wondering, “When does it snow in Japan?” you should note that it can vary.
The best resorts and snow conditions are found in northern Japan (Hokkaido and Tohoku) and in the mountains along the Sea of Japan Coast (especially Niigata and Nagano). For those who are interested in experiencing snow, but who do not wish to ski or snowboard, most resorts have play zones designed for families with small children.
Located in the northern hemisphere, Japan ski season dates fall between November and May, with main dates being December to March. The northernmost ski areas are the first to open with the Niseko ski season usually starting in the last week of November or first week of December.
- Shirakawa-go, Gifu.
- Nikko, Tochigi. Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
- Sapporo, Hokkaido. © Sapporo Travel, Sapporo Snow Festival in Odori Park.
- Otaru, Hokkaido. © Janne Moren / Creative Commons, Otaru Canal.
Dec 4, 2022 · In December 2020, Tokyo saw an unusually high amount of snowfall for this time of year with over 30 cm (12 inches) falling on some areas in just one day! This was due to the combination of cold air from Siberia and warm moisture from the Pacific Ocean resulting in heavy snowfalls across the country.
Most popular ski resorts are up and running by mid- to late December. When snowfall is scarce early in the season, resorts use artificial snow to compensate. Hokkaido's big resorts may open as early as the end of November.
