The snow scene of Mount Fuji is one of the highlights of winter tourism in Japan, but the snowfall at the beginning of this year was nearly two weeks later than the latest record in history, setting a new 129-year snowfall record.
TOKYO, JAPAN (Merxwire) – With the arrival of winter, Mount Fuji finally received its first snowfall on November 7, setting a record for the latest snowfall since records began in 1894. Previously, the newest snowfall date on Mount Fuji was October 26 1955 and 2016, but this year broke this record. The mountain symbolizing Japan is again covered with snow, attracting global attention and boosting Japan’s winter tourism boom.
According to statistics from the Japan Tourism Bureau, 26.88 million people entered Japan from January to September this year, exceeding last year’s record of 25.07 million. This year’s number is likely to exceed 31.88 million in 2019, which is a record high. The Japanese government predicts that within six years, the number of international tourists will reach 60 million annually, and international tourism consumption revenue will reach 5.8 trillion yen, providing a strong stimulus to the Japanese economy.
Due to its depreciation, the Japanese yen is relatively cheap compared to most foreign currencies, which is one of the reasons why international tourists are attracted to visit. Secondly, Japanese products, accommodation and catering are beautiful to foreign tourists. Not only has the number of tourists from Asian countries increased significantly, but the return flow of European and American tourists has also increased significantly, revitalizing the development of Japan’s tourism industry.
Beyond economic factors, Japan’s unique natural landscapes and cultural richness continue to attract global travellers. From cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant autumn leaves, and snowy winter scenery to the blend of modern urban life and ancient traditions, Japan offers a compelling reason for repeat visits. Mount Fuji’s snow-covered landscapes are one of the highlights of winter tourism, alongside Hokkaido’s ski resorts and traditional hot spring inns, offering authentic and localized travel experiences. These unique experiences, combined with the recent snowfall, make Japan an even more attractive destination for winter tourism.
Japanese cuisine is another major attraction. Japan’s culinary offerings satisfy every palate, from sushi and ramen to kaiseki dining, whether upscale or budget-friendly. Winter, in particular, is the perfect season to enjoy comforting hot pot dishes and warm sake, adding to the allure of travelling in Japan.
However, the influx of foreign tourists has also brought challenges. Some tourist areas have experienced price hikes, affecting residents’ living costs. Overuse of tourism resources has led to congestion and strain on infrastructure in certain regions. In response to over-tourism, Kyoto has implemented measures such as restricting bus luggage and prohibiting tourist access to certain streets to maintain order and protect the local living environment. These measures are part of a larger effort to balance tourism’s benefits with preserving local culture and lifestyle.
The thriving tourism industry has stimulated the transportation, service, and entertainment sectors and become crucial to Japan’s economic recovery. With the first snowfall on Mount Fuji, the favourable exchange rate and the winter travel surge, Japan’s tourism growth is expected to continue its upward trend. Whether it’s first-time visitors or returning travellers passionate about Japanese culture, this land’s natural beauty and cultural allure continue to attract more explorers.