By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported
Frost flowers bloom in Lake Akan, Hokkaido, due to the strong cold wave. (Image source / hokkaido-labo)
Okinawa’s Kume Island experienced snowfall for the first time in 39 years since February 17, 1977, due to the cold wave. The intense cold snap sold out winter essentials and electrical appliances that are usually readily available at convenience stores and retailers in Okinawa. The lowest temperature reached 3.1°C, the second lowest in Okinawa Prefecture’s recorded history.
Kyushu and Shikoku haven’t seen snow in many years; this cold snap has resulted in snow accumulation across many parts of Japan. (Image source / Japan Meteorological Agency)
Kagoshima Prefecture’s Amami Oshima even saw snowfall after an 115-year hiatus on January 24, 2016. The Shinkansen and domestic flights in Japan were significantly affected. Due to strong winds and heavy snow, transportation schedules experienced numerous changes—be sure to check before departing. Snowfall was abundant throughout Japan: around 20 cm in southern Kyushu and Shikoku, about 40 cm in northern Kyushu, approximately 50 cm in the Kanto, Kansai, and Chugoku regions, about 60 cm in the Tohoku region, around 70 cm in parts of Tohoku, and in Hokkaido, snow accumulation ranged from 50 cm to over 200 cm.
Japan has turned into a silver snow-covered world. (Photography / MOOK Scenic Spots Zhang Yingying)
Under the influence of the strong cold wave, those planning to visit Japan in the coming days should also check whether major attractions are operating normally. Be sure to pack warm clothing and personal medication, and prepare suitable outerwear and footwear for moving around in snowy conditions as much as possible.