In brief
Climate change and warmer weather patterns are reshaping one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.
In a surprising turn of events, Japan's majestic Mount Fuji is experiencing a snow-less season later than ever before. Traditionally, this iconic volcano starts to see its peak dusted with snow by early October, but this year marks a record-breaking moment as it remains bare without any snowfall. As reported, the first snowfall usually graces the summit by October 5th but warm weather has kept the commanding views clear and bright. The summer of 2023 has been noted as one of the hottest on record, with temperatures soaring up to 1.76°C (35.1°F) above average from June to August. This extended heatwave further delayed the arrival of colder weather conditions necessary for snow. September continued to be unusually warm, largely influenced by the location of the sub-tropical jet stream. This fast-moving air current has allowed warmer air to linger over Japan. The Japan Meteorological Society noted that around 1,500 locations reported "extremely hot" days—where temps exceeded 35°C (95°F). Although temperatures have moderated slightly in October, they still remain hotter than usual. Thus, entering November without any snow on Fuji represents the longest wait for a snowcap since record-keeping began in 1894. The previous record dated back to October 26th in both 1955 and 2016. Standing at 3,776 meters (12,460 feet), Mount Fuji not only holds the title as Japan's tallest mountain, but it also serves as a significant cultural symbol, famously depicted in numerous art forms, including traditional woodblock prints. In 2022, over 220,000 mountain-goers climbed to the summit during the summer months, reflecting the enduring allure of this natural wonder amidst changing climate patterns.
