Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain and a notable volcano. This year, it remains snow-free later than any year since recorded history began in 1894.

Typically, a light snowfall blankets the peak by early October, but the absence of snow this year can be attributed to unusually warm weather conditions.

In 2023, the first snow appeared on October 5, as reported by news agencies. The record-breaking temperatures experienced from June to August signify Japan’s hottest summer to date. Temperature spikes averaged 1.76°C (3.1°F) above normal.

Throughout September, the warming trend persisted. This weather phenomenon was partly caused by a jet stream farther north than usual. This air current, which typically results from warm southern air meeting cooler northern air, contributed to abnormally high temperatures across the region. The increased heat led to almost 1,500 regions experiencing “extreme heat” days, with temperatures of 35°C (95°F) or higher. While temperatures slightly cooled by October, the month remained warmer than average.

Approaching November, the anticipated snowcap on Mount Fuji has yet to appear, marking an unprecedented delay. The prior longest wait for snow until October 26 occurred in 1955 and 2016. According to experts, while a single incident cannot definitively indicate climate change, the current situation with Mount Fuji aligns with predictions for a warming world.

Mount Fuji is 3,776 meters (12,460 feet) tall and is southwest of Tokyo. On clear days, the city is visible from the mountain. Mount Fuji is a prevalent theme in historic Japanese artwork, including prints from famous artists like Hokusai.

Recently, climbing the mountain has drawn significant tourist attention. Over 220,000 individuals reached the summit during the hiking period from July to September. This influx of tourists has led to concerns about over-tourism, prompting discussions about introducing entry fees or a tourist tax to ensure sustainable access.