Snowfall across Japan creates problems in some areas, picturesque scenes in others

The Yomiuri Shimbun

16:50 JST, December 18, 2021

Japan experienced severe cold weather on Saturday as a result of atmospheric pressure patterns that are typical this time of year. Heavy snow mainly fell in mountainous areas and along the coast of the Sea of Japan.

Western Hokkaido saw record-breaking snowfall through Saturday. In 24 hours, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, recorded 55 centimeters while Otaru recorded 53 centimeters, according to the Sapporo District Meteorological Observatory. It was the most snowfall seen in those areas since records started being kept in 1999.

Meanwhile, in Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, about 160 trucks and other vehicles were stranded in the snow on the national highway for about four hours on early Saturday morning, according to the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry. However, there were no reports of anyone feeling ill.

The famous Kinkakuji temple, a World Heritage site in Kyoto, was also blanketed in a light layer of snow.