Hidaka, Hokkaido — Japan’s reputation as a powder paradise for skiers can be misleading. While the country’s mountain resorts are famous for their deep, dry snow, winter storms in Japan are by no means confined to high elevations. In fact, some of the most disruptive snowfall each year occurs in cities, coastal towns and residential neighborhoods far from any ski slope.
The culprit is a seasonal weather pattern that repeats itself throughout the winter months. Bitterly cold winds descend from Siberia and sweep across the Sea of Japan, where they gather moisture from the relatively warm water. When these air masses reach the Japanese archipelago, the moisture is released as snow — often heavy, persistent and widespread. As a result, snowfall regularly blankets regions stretching from northern Hokkaido all the way south to Shimane Prefecture, sometimes accumulating even at sea level.
Recent events have underscored how quickly these systems can escalate. Just last week, a powerful blizzard in Hokkaido slashed visibility to only a few meters in some areas, forcing the cancellation of 126 flights and severely disrupting transportation. The timing could not have been worse, as many travelers were beginning their post–New Year’s return journeys.
At the same time, heavy snow swept along the Sea of Japan coast. In Itoigawa, a seaside city in Niigata Prefecture, nearly 60 centimeters of snow piled up in a single 24-hour period. Streets, rooftops and rail lines were buried, reminding residents that even coastal communities are vulnerable to sudden, intense snowfall.
These winter storms are more than an inconvenience. They can bring traffic accidents, flight cancellations, power outages and dangerous conditions for pedestrians. Local governments frequently urge residents to stay indoors during peak snowfall, while commuters are advised to allow extra time or avoid travel altogether.
As Japan moves deeper into winter, meteorologists warn that similar weather systems are likely to return. For residents and visitors alike, preparation is key — from monitoring forecasts and adjusting travel plans to ensuring homes and vehicles are ready for severe cold and snow.
In Japan, winter storms don’t always arrive in the mountains. Sometimes, they arrive right at your doorstep.