Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic 3,776-meter peak, has finally donned its winter coat after an unprecedented delay. For the first time in 130 years of recorded history, the mountain remained without snow even into late October. This year, a warm autumn contributed to the unusual phenomenon, prompting the city of Fuji to announce the sighting of a thin layer of snow near the summit. As temperatures drop, it is expected that this snowfall will persist.
Historically, Mount Fuji is typically capped with snow from early October onwards. The recent delay has not only surprised locals but also sparked interest among the hiking community. Despite this, the mountain continues to attract many trekkers during the short summer season, which saw overcrowding and raised environmental concerns.
Weather officials from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) noted that conditions remained overcast, preventing the declaration of a new snowfall record. However, they expressed optimism that clearer skies would allow for better observation soon. This year has also marked one of the hottest summers on record in Japan, further emphasizing the impact of climate variations on seasonal weather patterns. As the landscape transforms with snow, Mount Fuji reclaims its enchanting winter allure.
