How Much Snow Will Fall In Japan This Winter? Latest Predictions For 2025/26
Oct 17, 2025
As the days get colder and the first snow dusts the top of Mount Yotei, our minds turn to the winter season ahead and what the weather gods may have in store for us. As usual, speculation is rife but there are promising signs on the horizon. So exactly how much snow can we expect in Japan’s ski resorts in the 2025/2026 season?
Let’s get down to it. Firstly, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) expects early winter temperatures in Japan to be slightly warmer than usual in November, followed by a cooler December, then mostly average temperatures for the rest of the season. They also predict wetter than normal conditions leading into winter, which are likely to continue throughout the season. With a La Niña event developing early on, the outlook suggests above-average snowfall is on the horizon.
Mountainwatch’s metrological guru The Grasshopper agrees and says all the signs right now are pointing to La Niña making an appearance again this winter, which is good news for seeing plenty of snow in Japan.
La Niña tends to strengthen the cold Siberian air flows over the Sea of Japan, creating those great powder conditions that we know, love and pray for. Last year was fantastic, and it looks like this season may follow a similar pattern, so there's a good chance we'll see another season of deep, fluffy snow. Praise be.
We will of course keep you updated as new predictions come through, and be sure to keep an eye on our YouTube Channel for regular snapshots of the weather as it happens in Niseko.
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