TOKYO — Japan’s Mount Fuji has finally got its trademark snowcap early on Wednesday, more than a month after it normally would and after setting a record for the most-delayed snowfall in 130 years.
The first snowfall on Mt. Fuji, which is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, could be observed from the southwestern side of the mountain, as stated by the Shizuoka branch of the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). This snowfall, which marks the onset of winter, usually begins around October 2. Traditionally, the nearly 12,300-foot high mountain dons its snowy cap as the summertime hiking season ends.
On Tuesday, the snowless state of the mountain surprised many, setting off conversations and concern about climate patterns. The previous record for the latest snowfall was October 26, 2016. To put this recent delay in perspective, last year, the first snow fell on October 5, according to JMA records.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with pictures showing the bare mountain. Many users expressed astonishment at the lack of snow, prompting discussions about the impacts of climate change. Kiryu, from JMA’s Kofu office, said, “Many people have been eagerly waiting to see the snowcap, and we’ve received numerous inquiries recently.” He hinted at the possibility of cloud cover around the mountaintop as the cause of the delayed confirmation of snowfall conditions.
Local meteorological officials have attributed the late snow to unusually summery weather patterns experienced throughout Japan during October. This year’s earlier temperatures reached record highs at the mountain summit. “The average October temperature at the peak is around minus 2 degrees Celsius (28.4 degrees Fahrenheit), but this year, it was recorded at 1.6 C (34.9 F),” Kiryu noted, mentioning this the highest since 1932.
Japan also experienced hotter-than-usual conditions during the summer and autumn months, which has raised alarms about altering ecosystems and climate behavior. Changes are leading many experts and local officials to reflect on what this could mean for future seasons. Jun Kubota, one local forecaster and mountaineer, expressed concern, stating, “I wonder if the season we can enjoy the snow is getting shorter, not just at Mt. Fuji but also on other mountains in central Japan or on Hokkaido.”
The mountain, affectionately known as Fujisan, holds historical significance and cultural value, often revered as more than just nature’s spectacle. Historically, it was a place of pilgrimage, with its stunning snowy peak depicted through various art forms, including the iconic Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji created by Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai.
These cultural ties amplify the distress among locals and environmentalists alike, especially with the increasing issue of overtourism. Overcrowding has led to trash being left behind, triggering discussions about the necessity for stricter environmental protection measures. These concerns dovetail significantly with the recent rise of global climate discussions.
With the unprecedented delay this year, there were widespread calls for environmental regulations to combat the adverse effects of tourism and climate change. The sight of Mount Fuji without snow has become emblematic of larger issues at stake, drawing attention from both environmentalists and everyday citizens.
Experts are currently analyzing data from consecutive years to understand this trend accurately. While the late snowfall sparks conversations around environmental impacts, officials remain cautious about drawing definitive conclusions too quickly. ”I think we need to examine data for a longer period of time to make any conclusion,” Kiryu emphasized.
It’s not just about gaining visibility for snowfall today; it’s about the future: What does this delayed first snow mean for winter sports, snow-clad mountain climbing, or even the culture surrounding Mount Fuji? Many fear these weather shifts may lead to significant impacts across various sectors.
The late snowfall this year has not only caught the eye of residents but also the global community. Questions loom—what does this mean for the iconic mountain, and as we navigate through seasons of change, how will environmental issues and tourism hand as we move forward? Only time will tell, but for now, Mount Fuji has its snowcap, albeit delayed, as observers watch closely for what’s to come.
