Japan’s Official Winter Forecast: Strong Start Expected in December

Japan’s official long-range winter forecast has just been released, and it points to a fast start for the 2025–26 season.

According to the Niigata Regional Meteorological Observatory (part of the Japan Meteorological Agency), December is expected to be both colder and wetter than normal across the Hokuriku region, which includes Niigata and Myoko. That combination is the classic setup for heavy snowfall on the Japan Sea side. Resorts like Myoko are forecast to build a strong base quickly, giving December visitors an excellent chance of early powder.

After December, conditions are expected to shift closer to average. This means the above-normal snowfall may not continue all season, but storms typical of a Japanese winter will still arrive. Skiers planning trips later in the season can still expect steady snow, just not the same above-normal boost forecast for December.

Niigata Meteorological Observatory Graphic

"Average" Snow?

How much snow is "AVERAGE"? In the Myoko area it is usually around 12 meters to 15 meters or 40 to 50 feet. Still pretty decent, right?!

What This Means for Skiers

• December: Heavier snowfall and colder than normal temperatures expected → strong early start for ski areas in Niigata and Hokuriku.

• After December: Conditions likely return closer to average → snowfall continues, but not above normal.

  
  

Niigata Meteorological Observatory Graphic

About the Forecast

This outlook comes from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Japan’s national authority for weather, climate, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcano monitoring. JMA issues seasonal forecasts every month, along with updates from regional observatories like Niigata.

• JMA’s September 2025 three-month outlook covers October to December and highlights colder and wetter than normal conditions in December.

• For reference, see JMA’s official seasonal forecast information and the Niigata outlook commentary