According to the Tokyo District Meteorological Observatory's "Climate of Tokyo" data and investigations by the Japan Meteorological Agency, Tokyo averages 9.7 snow days per year between 1981 and 2010, with February leading at an average of 3.7 days, followed by January with 2.8 days, and March with 2.2 days. The days most likely to experience snow are February 17th and 18th, with about ten recorded instances of snowfall.
Although not every snowfall in Tokyo results in accumulation, due to the low probability of snow in the capital region, combined with the density of train routes and the difficulty of maintenance, installing snow melting devices on railways faces significant challenges. Consequently, trains must slow down or reduce service to avoid collisions, and snow removal, often manual, is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Even a small amount of accumulation can significantly delay the return to normal train service, making snowfall a primary cause of transportation disruptions in Tokyo.

The Japan Meteorological Agency is known for its high accuracy in forecasts. Before planning any trip to Japan, it's best to check their website for the latest weather updates! The website offers interfaces in Japanese and English, facilitating easy access for international travelers. Here, we also introduce some commonly used terms in Japanese weather forecasts.

The Japan Meteorological Agency's website offers more than just weather forecasts. It provides comprehensive data on rainfall, snowfall, snow accumulation, and historical weather information. When it comes to mobile apps, Japan has several weather apps available, such as the "Yahoo! Weather APP." Each app offers similar content, so choosing one based on personal preference and usage habits is advisable.

If there's a chance of snow during your travel period, it's wise to have multiple backup plans, like opting for indoor sightseeing/shopping or visiting attractions within walking distance from your accommodation to avoid the dilemma of being stuck on a train and unable to return to your hotel. Some attractions and businesses may close early due to snow, so keep that in mind. Additionally, if there's enough snow, building snowmen and having snowball fights outdoors can be great fun, just be careful not to disturb those around you who may be clearing the snow.

When planning your itinerary, check the weather conditions online in advance. Before heading out, confirm with your airline whether flights are operating normally to avoid making a wasted trip, and consider purchasing travel insurance for emergencies. When in Japan, keep an eye on television broadcasts, airline official websites, or online news for updates, and use mobile apps for train operation information to stay informed about the status of various transportation services. If you unfortunately encounter snow on your day of departure, make sure to leave for the airport early or consider changing your flight, as missing your plane due to snowfall can be a significant inconvenience.
Most train stations and platforms have electronic boards displaying train arrivals, destinations, and times. If the board doesn't show a schedule, it might indicate train delays or reduced service. In severe cases, station entry may be limited, and boarding a train might result in not reaching your destination after a long wait. Adjusting your plans accordingly is a safer option.

By using a train-specific route guidance app (like Navitime), not only can you check train schedules and transfer information, but you can also quickly grasp the current operating status of trains directly through the app.

Dress Warmly
Many people think snow is cold, but actually, the coldest time is when the snow is melting. Make sure to dress warmly when going out. Japan's indoors and trains are heated, so dressing in layers, like an "onion-style," is advisable. Wear gloves, scarves, beanies, earmuffs, or masks to protect exposed skin from frostbite. Carry rain gear with you, switch to rubber-soled snow boots or shoes with anti-slip features for footwear. Rain boots are a great choice if you're worried about getting wet, and using heat packs can make you unbeatable against the cold.

Walk Carefully
Besides keeping warm, be extra cautious when walking as snow that hasn't fully melted or has turned to ice can be very slippery. Walk with your center of gravity slightly forward, take small steps and move slowly to avoid icy surfaces. Keep your hands out of your pockets for balance, be wary of falling snow from roofs, and try not to cycle. If driving, use snow chains for extra grip and reduce speed.

And Don't Forget These Tips!
The batteries of mobile phones, cameras, and other electronic devices are quite sensitive to temperature changes and may run low on power quickly in cold weather. It's advised to carry spare batteries or minimize outdoor use of these devices. Additionally, since drinking hot water is not a common practice in Japan and hot water facilities are scarce, carrying a thermos to stay hydrated is recommended.

A trip to Japan doesn't have to be overly concerned with the weather. With proper mental preparation, allowing ample travel time, taking cold-weather precautions, utilizing online search tools, and being adaptable, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip!