On March 4, 2025, severe snowfall is expected to affect transportation across major lines.
Odakyu Electric Railway has announced the suspension of operations for four Limited Express Romancecar trains between Odawara and Hakone-Yumoto due to the forecast of snowfall.
The down trains affected include the "Home Way 1" departing from Shinjuku at 5 PM, and the "Home Way 5" leaving at 6 PM. The up trains impacted are the "Hakone 6," which will depart from Hakone-Yumoto at 6:36 PM, and the "Hakone 8," which is scheduled to leave at 7:50 PM. These trains will originate from Odawara at 6:52 PM and 8:07 PM, respectively.
Odakyu warns travelers to anticipate delays, stating, "For safe operation, other trains may reduce speed and disruptions to the schedule could occur." Normal operations are expected to commence from March 5.
Similarly, JR East announced disruptions on the Ome Line, suspending operations between Ome Station and Okutama Station starting at 4 PM on March 4, extending through end of the day. The line will remain closed until around noon on March 5.
On the Nikko Line, service between Kanuma Station and Nikko Station, as well as all operations on the Karasuyama Line, will cease after the last train at 6 PM on March 4. All services on the Suigun Line will also be suspended from 6 PM onwards.
Beyond trains, Japan's air traffic is also feeling the effects of the inclement weather. All Nippon Airways has cancelled four flights connecting Haneda, New Chitose, and Fukuoka due to snow removal operations, but other flights are reportedly running as usual. Japan Airlines has confirmed no current impact from snow at Haneda Airport, maintaining normal flight operations.
JR East also reported cancelation of 37 limited express trains on the Chuo Line, including services such as "Azusa" and "Kaiji," from 3 PM onward on March 4. Meanwhile, major JR lines around Tokyo, like the Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku lines, among others, are currently operating as scheduled.
Looking to the future, forecasts predict significant disruptions on March 5. All roads and railways in northern Japan are bracing for heavy snow effects. Travelers on snow-heavy inland highways on March 5 may face closures, and those traveling by car are encouraged to use winter tires. Delays for highway buses are also anticipated, so checking traffic and closure information is advised.
For rail services, the Joetsu Shinkansen and Hokuriku Shinkansen are expected to see delays due to snow on the night of March 4. Other conventional lines, particularly on the Koshin and Tohoku routes, may face significant delays or cancelled services, especially through mountainous areas where weather conditions could lead to severe disruptions.
For those considering travel, especially within the Kansai region, delays related to strong winds on lines like the Kosei Line and the Sanin Line are also expected.
A comprehensive message from transportation officials urges travelers to stay informed about live updates on operations. "Be sure to check the latest news as changes can happen quickly during such weather events," advised local transport authorities.
Travel and transport safety are the key concerns as the region braces for the weather’s impact on March 4 and beyond, with both snow and strong winds posing tangible dangers. Officials reiterate travelers should plan accordingly and allow ample time for unforeseen disruptions.
For air travel, conditions remain unpredictable, particularly at Kanto region airports like Narita and Haneda, expecting possible delays or conditional operations due to weather conditions late on March 4 and through March 5. Travelers utilizing these airports are also urged to check their airlines' updates before heading to the airport.
Travelers are warned to take caution and prepare adequately for the disruption expected to this week's heavy snow forecast throughout Kanto, with public transport services announcing closures and impacts across the board.
Simply put, if you're traveling, keep up-to-date with official announcements and don't be caught unprepared as conditions evolve.