Early Snowfall in Sapporo Signals Start of Japan's Ski Season

Early Snowfall Teases Japan's Ski Season

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido in northern Japan, welcomed its first snowfall on Sunday, October 20. This year's snow arrived eight days earlier than the long-term average and 22 days earlier than last year, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

Mount Moiwa, accessible by ropeway and gondola, received about 2 inches (5 centimeters) of snow. While this initial snowfall, known as "Hatsuyuki" in Japanese, didn't stick around, it has certainly stirred anticipation among skiers and riders for the upcoming season.

A dusting of snow has fall across the top of Sapporo at Mt Moiwa.

Fujiyama Snow Resort Yeti, located on the main island of Honshu, is set to be the first ski resort to open in Japan this season. Staying true to its 26-year tradition, Yeti has already begun snowmaking activities. The resort uses snow guns to create enough snow for a single run from top to bottom. This "white ribbon of death" may not be a world-class run, but it consistently attracts crowds each year.

Situated in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Fujiyama Snow Resort Yeti sits at an altitude of 4,856 feet (1,480 meters) and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji. Despite its modest size, with only five ski runs and 492 feet (150 meters) of vertical, Yeti's opening marks a significant moment on the Japanese ski calendar, signalling the start of the new ski season.

A map showing where the easy season snowfall took place across Hokkaido.

Most Japanese ski resorts operate from December to May, with some opening earlier if natural snowfall is sufficient or if they have artificial snowmaking capabilities. The major resorts in Hokkaido are scheduled to open from late November:

• Sapporo Teine: November 16, 2024
• Furano: November 23, 2024
• Rusutsu: November 29, 2024
• Hoshino Tomamu: November 29, 2024
• Sapporo Kokusai: November 22, 2024
• Niseko: November 30, 2024
• Kiroro: November 30, 2024
• Sahoro: December 6, 2024
• Kamui Ski Links: December 20, 2024

As the early snowfall in Sapporo suggests, Japan's ski resorts are poised for a promising season. Skiers and riders can look forward to carving up the slopes across the country's diverse range of ski destinations, from the powdery runs of Hokkaido to the scenic slopes near Mount Fuji.