Record-breaking Snowfall Covers Northern Japan
Yet another snowfall record to add to this season!
A few inches of snow can bring cities to a standstill, imagine what happens when more than 4 feet of snow falls in just 12 hours!
That’s exactly what hit Obihiro, a city on the island of Hokkaido, northern Japan, last Tuesday. The city was buried under an incredible 129cm (4.25ft) of snow, setting a new snowfall record for the country!
Credit: ABC News Australia [YouTube]
Japan’s 2024/25 winter season has been nothing short of epic, shattering records across the board, with the latest milestone arriving right in the heart of the country’s peak powder months.
What started with one of the highest early snowfall totals in December has exploded into a series of incredible weather events, including the record 12-hour snowfall in Hokkaido and powerful back-to-back storms in Central Honshu.
The result? Unbelievable riding conditions and an abundance of fresh powder—Ja-POW at its finest!
Hokkaido smashing records
For the second year in a row, Hokkaido has set a new snowfall record! On February 4, 2025, Obihiro saw 1.29 meters (4.25 feet) of snow in just 12 hours, making it Japan’s highest 12-hour snowfall on record.
Northern Japan regularly experiences massive snowfalls, as cold air from Siberia sweeps across the Sea of Japan or Pacific Ocean, picking up moisture that results in incredibly light and fluffy snow.
The world record for 24-hour snowfall was set on Mount Ibuki, Japan, with 230cm (90.6 inches) on February 14, 1927, totaling 11.82m (38.8ft) of snow. Meanwhile, Sukayu in Honshu averages an impressive 17.64m (58ft) annually!
Epic riding conditions are here to stay!
The storm season shows no signs of slowing down! Central Honshu has been pounded by back-to-back storms, continuing to add to the powder piles and making for the kind of riding conditions one can only dream of.
Want to stay on top of the action? Be sure to check out Grasshopper’s weekly snow reports for Japan here.
Ready for round 2?
…..Or didn’t quite make it to Japan this season? With a weak yen and record-breaking snowfall, NOW is the perfect opportunity to start planning your next trip.
We’ve got our hands on some SUPER Early Bird deals for the 2025/26 season in Hakuba, but packages are limited and booking up fast. Secure your spot and be ahead of the crowd!
Request an online quote below, and our team will get back to you to help you customise a perfect package for you.
Here’s to many more powder turns and unforgettable snow adventures ahead!
