Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji has recently seen its first snowfall of the season after a historically long delay, marking a record-breaking event. The snow, which capped the mountain’s summit, was reported on November 6, 2024, after an unusually warm autumn season. This late arrival of snow follows the warmest autumn in recent history, pushing the first snowfall of the year far beyond typical dates.
The snowfall on Mount Fuji was documented by the Shizuoka City government and by local residents, who posted images showing the white dusting at the peak. Although the snow was visible from the southwestern side of the mountain, it has yet to be officially confirmed by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), as its Kofu branch, responsible for official announcements, was obscured by clouds. However, early photographs from Fuji City Hall in Shizuoka confirmed the phenomenon, with images shared widely among residents and environmental groups.
Typically, Mount Fuji experiences its first dusting of snow by early October. However, this year, the first snowfall came much later than usual, surpassing the previous latest snowfall recorded in 1955 and 2016. This delay in snowfall has highlighted the unusual weather patterns that have been sweeping Japan, and the mountain’s snowless slopes for much of October were notably warmer than usual.
At Mount Fuji’s summit, average October temperatures generally hover around -2°C (28.4°F). Yet, this year, temperatures reached 1.6°C (34.9°F), the highest recorded since 1932. These elevated temperatures, which followed Japan’s hottest summer on record, have contributed to the delay in snowfall across many regions of Japan. The Japanese Meteorological Agency attributes this late snow to the warm autumn weather, with officials stating it is too soon to definitively link the delay to global climate change.
This year’s snowfall cap comes after a period of intense scrutiny regarding environmental conditions, especially in light of Japan’s growing concerns over climate change. Despite the rising temperatures, the first snow is still celebrated as an important natural occurrence and a symbol of the mountain’s spiritual and cultural significance.
Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has long been a symbol of Japan. Historically, it was a destination for pilgrimages, and in recent years, it has become a popular spot for hikers. The mountain’s sunrise is a sought-after experience for many. However, the increasing number of tourists has also raised concerns about overcrowding, waste management, and the environmental impact of tourism. Calls have been made for stronger environmental protections and measures to manage overtourism at the mountain’s base and summit.
The first snowfall on Mount Fuji has sparked a mixture of awe and concern. Although the sight of snow on the peak is seen as a symbol of the changing seasons, the delayed snow reflects larger concerns about shifting weather patterns and their long-term effects on the environment. As Japan navigates these challenges, it continues to monitor and respond to the evolving climate conditions.
Officials remain cautious in their assessments, emphasizing the need for long-term data before drawing conclusions about the effects of global warming. The snowfall, while symbolic, also serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between natural events, human activity, and global climate systems.
