Snowy Days Ahead for Nagano & Niigata From January 11
Japan is expected to see significant snowfall beginning around Sunday, January 11, 2026, with forecasts indicating a stronger-than-average winter system moving into the region. A cold air mass is likely to bring steady to heavy snow to parts of Nagano and Niigata prefectures, as well as areas along the Japan Sea coast.
While snowfall totals may be higher than usual for this time of year, conditions will vary by location. Local authorities and weather services are monitoring the situation closely, and residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed and plan accordingly. Already this season, mountain regions have seen substantial snow. In late December, Nozawa Onsen in Nagano recorded about 45 cm of snow during a cold event that brought strong snowfall to the northern part of the prefecture.
What’s Ahead: Intense Snow & Harsh Cold
Snowy Nozawa
Meteorologists watching the evolving atmosphere have identified a powerful cold air mass from Siberia colliding with moist air over the Sea of Japan. From January 11 through about the 14th, this combination will intensify the winter monsoon and drive exceptionally heavy snow inland toward Nagano and Niigata. The Japan Meteorological Agency and Japan Weather Association have issued early alerts for unusually high snowfall, indicating that this winter storm could surpass the intensity of typical seasonal snow events.
The cold air affecting Japan has already produced heavy snow in other areas along the Sea of Japan earlier in January, and recent observations show large accumulations over mountainous and coastal regions. The trend of repeated cold air outbreaks into next week sets up conditions for another surge of intense snowfall starting around January 11.
As this rare snow event develops, some disruption is possible across the region. Snow accumulation may make driving conditions more difficult on certain roads, and transport services such as trains and flights could experience delays if snowfall intensifies. Conditions will vary by area, particularly between lowland cities and higher elevations. Residents and travelers are encouraged to keep an eye on local weather and transport updates, allow extra time for travel, and take basic winter precautions. With sensible planning and up-to-date information, most people should be able to navigate the conditions safely.
Where to get information about snow warnings?
Be aware like this cat!
If you’re coming by the Hokuriku Shinkansen , be sure to visit their website to know about the status of their trains. Information is provided in both English & Japanese. If you’re taking conventional lines check out JR East’s status section. For the Nozawa Onsen Liner, you can check the schedule and information on their main website. For those driving, be sure to check the status of expressways. You can find information about various expressways in Japan using Nexco (note: their system is in Japanese). Google Maps may also be able to give you insights in English.
Nozawa Onsen Status
Nozawa Onsen
At present, Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort has issued no special warnings regarding ski facilities or conditions in the surrounding region. Their last update on the 26th of December was that night skiing will operate from January 10th. To see if there are any changes , we recommend you access their Japanese site (their notices are not on the English version).
Nozawa Fire Festival
The Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival (Dosojin Matsuri) takes place every year on January 15 and is one of Japan’s most iconic winter traditions. Villagers construct a large wooden shrine and, as night falls, the festival comes alive with flaming torches, chanting, and the dramatic lighting of the structure, a centuries-old ritual to pray for good health, harmony, and good fortune in the year ahead.
The festival goes ahead even in heavy snow, making it a true winter experience and a powerful display of local spirit. Our Nagano-based staff member, Ben, highly recommends it, describing it as one of the most memorable cultural events in the region, especially when fire and snowfall meet under the winter night sky.
Where to stay in Nozawa Onsen
Kogawa House,Nagano
Shiki Properties has recently opened a new listing in Nozawa Onsen: Kogawa House, a spacious 95㎡, two-bedroom home designed for families or small groups seeking a relaxed and comfortable ski escape. The house blends modern convenience with traditional touches, featuring a Western-style bedroom alongside a tatami room, a private kitchen and dining area, and a full bathroom with laundry facilities. Underfloor and roof heating keep the space warm throughout winter, while a Google Smart TV with Netflix and English channels, plus free Wi-Fi, make it easy to unwind after a day on the slopes.
Ideally located just 400 meters from Hikage Slope and 200 meters from the Nozawa Onsen Bus Stop, Kogawa House offers both comfort and convenience in the heart of the village, perfect for returning home, relaxing, and recharging for another day in the snow. To book, or for more information, check our live listing today!