Hakuba's Record-Breaking 2025 Season Hits 13-Year Snowfall High

Hakuba's Happo One Breaks Snowfall Records with More Storms on the Horizon

The 2024-25 ski season is proving historic for Japan's Hakuba region, with Happo One ski resort recording its highest snowfall total in 13 years. By mid-February, the base area measurement had reached 678 centimetres, already surpassing the previous record of 619 centimetres set in 2014-15.

This remarkable season shows no signs of slowing, with February alone contributing 123 centimetres and only one snowless day recorded since January 29. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) confirms that "La Niña-like conditions" will persist through February before gradually weakening, suggesting continued favourable conditions for snowfall.

What makes this season particularly intriguing is the localised nature of these exceptional conditions. While Hakuba enjoys record-breaking snowfall, neighbouring resorts are experiencing more typical seasons. Myoko's Akakura Kanko resort, merely 50 kilometres from Happo One, would need an additional 4 metres of snow to match its 2018-19 season record of 1,705 centimetres, despite receiving an impressive 198 centimetres in recent days.

Even more noteworthy is the contrast with Hokkaido's resorts, which traditionally benefit most from La Niña conditions. Furano has recorded 417 centimetres this season, significantly lower than last year's 645 centimetres at the same point. Niseko faces a similar situation, with just 644 centimetres accumulated, well below its seasonal average of 1,054 centimetres measured at Niseko Grand Hirafu's base.

The legendary mountains that rise above Hakuba. Credit: Hakuba

However, recent weather patterns suggest a promising trend. Central Honshu received over 2 metres of fresh snow in the season's largest storm, while Hokkaido accumulated approximately 1 metre. The JMA forecasts a 50-60% probability of above-average snowfall across Honshu over the next month, with Hokkaido holding a 40% chance.

With Hakuba's ski season typically extending into early May and the last snowfall usually occurring in early April, this season's record-breaking total is expected to climb significantly higher. Another storm system is predicted to hit Central Honshu from February 17, before moving to Hokkaido the following day, with effects lasting through the weekend. These exceptional conditions cement Hakuba's reputation as one of Japan's premier ski destinations, offering reliable snowfall and extensive terrain across its network of resorts. The unique weather patterns this season have created optimal conditions for powder skiing, drawing attention from skiers and riders worldwide to this cornerstone of Japanese winter sports.