Many travelers imagine Japan as a snowy winter wonderland—but what about Tokyo?
The short answer is: Yes, it can snow in Tokyo, but it doesn’t happen very often. And when it does, even a small amount of snow can have a big impact on daily life and transportation.

Here’s what you should know before visiting Tokyo in winter.

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Does Tokyo Get Snow?

Yes, but snowfall in Tokyo is rare and usually light.
Tokyo has a relatively mild winter compared to northern Japan or mountainous regions.

• Snow typically falls between December and March
• January and February are the most likely months
• Some winters pass with little to no snow at all

Even when it snows, it often melts quickly and does not build up into deep snow.

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How Often Does It Snow in Tokyo?

On average, Tokyo experiences only a few snowy days per year.

• Historically, Tokyo has had around 9–10 days per year with snow or sleet
• However, days with actual snow accumulation are much fewer
• In recent years, some winters have seen only 1–3 light snow days, or none at all

Snowfall varies greatly from year to year, making it difficult to predict.

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Why Snow Causes Problems in Tokyo

Tokyo is not a snow-ready city. Because snow is uncommon, the city has limited snow-removal equipment and infrastructure. As a result, even a small amount of snow can cause disruptions.

Public Transportation

• Trains may slow down or be delayed
• Some lines may temporarily stop for safety checks
• Morning commuter hours are especially affected

Even light snow can lead to widespread delays across the rail network.

Roads and Walking Conditions

• Roads can become slippery due to snow or ice
• Buses and taxis may run late
• Sidewalks can be icy, increasing the risk of slips and falls

Tokyo residents are not used to walking on icy surfaces, so extra caution is important.

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What Travelers Should Do If It Snows

Dress Smart

• Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes
• Waterproof footwear is recommended
• Bring warm clothing, gloves, and a coat

Check Weather & Transport Updates

• Always check the weather forecast during winter
• On snowy days, confirm train operation status before heading out

Want to See Snow for Sure?

If seeing snow is a priority, Tokyo is not the most reliable destination.
Consider a short trip to nearby areas such as:

• Mountain regions
• Ski resorts
• Snowy destinations reachable by bullet train within 1–2 hours

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Is Snow in Tokyo a Bad Thing?

Not necessarily.

Snow in Tokyo is rare, which makes it special and photogenic when it happens:

• Snow-covered temples and shrines
• Quiet city streets
• A unique contrast between modern buildings and winter scenery

However, flexibility in your schedule is important, as transportation delays are common.

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❄️ Tokyo Snowfall Trends: 2019–2024

According to recorded weather data, snowfall in Tokyo varies significantly from year to year, with many winters experiencing only light snow or no measurable snow at all. Here’s a snapshot of recent seasons based on snowfall totals and snow-day statistics:

Season (Oct–May)	Snowfall Days	Total Snowfall (cm)	Max Depth (cm)
2024–2025	2 days	~2 cm	~1 cm
2023–2024	10 days	~10 cm	~8 cm
2022–2023	0 days	~0 cm	0 cm
2021–2022	~12 days	~12 cm	~10 cm
2020–2021	0 days	~0 cm	0 cm
2019–2020	~1 day	~1 cm	~1 cm

👉 This data shows how unpredictable snow in Tokyo can be — some years see a few light snow events, while others see almost no measurable snow at all.

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Final Thoughts: What to Expect

• ❄️ Snow in Tokyo is possible but uncommon
• ❄️ Heavy snow is very rare
• ❄️ Even light snow can disrupt transportation
• ❄️ Proper footwear and planning make winter travel easier

If you’re visiting Tokyo in winter, don’t expect constant snow—but if it does happen, you’ll witness a side of the city that even many locals rarely see.

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