Which Parts of Hokkaido Get the Most and Least Snow?

Annual snowfall differs by ~8 m across Hokkaido

Even in Hokkaido, known for its heavy winter snowfall, the amount of snow varies greatly by region. The chart above shows monthly snowfall for major areas across Hokkaido.

Heavier-snow regions are mainly found in higher elevations. The Kutchan–Niseko area, famous for its ski resorts, receives more than 9 meters of snow per year. That’s roughly the height of a three-story building. The northern interior around Asahikawa, including Furano and Biei, also experiences heavy snowfall.

In contrast, the plains tend to have less snow. For example, Obihiro and Kushiro in eastern Hokkaido are relatively low-snow areas. Obihiro is known for its sunny winter weather, often called “Tokachi-bare,” meaning clear skies in Tokachi. Comparing snowy Kutchan and less snowy Kushiro, the annual snowfall difference reaches about 8 meters.

More snow, more ski resorts

The snowier the region, the greater the number of ski resorts.

When comparing the number and size of ski resorts by region, it’s clear they are concentrated in central and northern Hokkaido, where snowfall is abundant.

The only million-plus city with over 4 m of annual snowfall

A city with a population exceeding one million that still receives over 4 meters of snow even in light-snow years is unique in the world. That city is Sapporo (Sapporo City “Snow Learning NEWS” No.27).