In brief
In an unusual meteorological development, Mount Fuji has yet to receive its first snow of the season, marking the latest occurrence since records began 130 years ago. Traditionally, the peak of Japan's tallest mountain would have received snow by early October, but this year, unseasonably warm weather has influenced conditions, with a notable absence of snowfall reported.
In 2023, snowfall was first registered on October 5, according to the AFP news agency. Japan experienced its warmest summer on record, with temperatures from June to August averaging 1.76°C (35.1°F) higher than normal, and September continued the trend of warmer weather due to a more northerly position of the sub-tropical jet stream, allowing warm air to sweep over the country. This phenomenon has led to nearly 1,500 locations experiencing "extremely hot" days, defined by temperatures soaring to or exceeding 35°C (95°F).While temperatures have slightly eased in October, the highs remain above the historical average. Approaching November without a snowcap indicates the longest gap in seasonal snowfall since 1894. The previous record was noted for October 26, which occurred in both 1955 and 2016, as detailed by Yutaka Katsuta, a forecaster at the Kofu Local Meteorological Office.Mount Fuji, located southwest of Tokyo at 3,776 meters (12,460 feet), is not only the highest mountain in Japan but also a significant cultural icon that has inspired countless works of art, including traditional woodblock prints. Interest in hiking the mountain remains strong, with over 220,000 climbers ascending to its summit last year alone during the summer months.
