The 6 Snowiest Countries and Cities on Earth
Source: AccuWeather, a global commercial weather forecasting service
Is it the scorching heat that’s got me thinking about snow? I’m not usually a fan of winter, but there’s something about falling snow that I love. Even without a childlike sense of wonder, the serene, romantic atmosphere of a quiet, snow-covered world feels enchanting. A city blanketed in white snow makes me feel like the protagonist of a fairytale. However, with global warming accelerating, many countries, including my own, are losing these snowy landscapes. Still, some places consistently experience world-class snowfall each year.
Today, let’s explore the 6 snowiest countries and cities on Earth, based on average annual snowfall. Please note that these figures reflect yearly averages, not single snow events.
6. United States, Syracuse
Syracuse, located in Upstate New York, ties for fifth place with Quebec, Canada, as one of the snowiest cities. It’s known as the snowiest city in the United States, with an average annual snowfall of about 123 inches (314 cm). That’s taller than most adult men! Records show some seasons with up to 192 inches (487 cm) of snow. With such heavy snowfall, Syracuse has a well-developed winter sports scene, attracting enthusiasts for various activities.
5. Canada, Quebec
Tied with Syracuse for fifth place, Quebec, Canada, also sees an average of 123 inches (314 cm) of snowfall annually. Snow typically falls from early November to April, making it a winter wonderland. Quebec is home to the world-famous Quebec Winter Carnival, a snow festival that draws crowds. The heavy snow season brings countless tourists for winter sports like skiing, ice skating, ice climbing, and cross-country skiing.
4. Canada, St. John’s
The fourth snowiest city is St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, with an average annual snowfall of 131 inches (332 cm). Beyond heavy snow, the city experiences frequent fog, wind, and clouds, sometimes turning snow into rain or freezing precipitation. On rare clear days, the sunlight reflecting off the snow creates breathtaking village scenery.
3. Japan, Toyama
Toyama, Japan, ranks third despite its humid subtropical climate, boasting an average annual snowfall of 143 inches (363 cm). Snow falls from December to March, with January being the peak month. Located near the coast and in a snow belt, Toyama has a thriving snow-related tourism industry. The snow-covered Tateyama Mountain is particularly renowned for offering stunning views to snow enthusiasts and photographers.
2. Japan, Sapporo
Sapporo, Japan’s fourth-largest city, takes second place with an average annual snowfall of 191 inches (485 cm). Its proximity to my country makes it a popular destination for snow festival visitors. Every February, Sapporo hosts the globally renowned Sapporo Snow Festival, a celebration of intricate snow sculptures that draws travelers from around the world.
1. Japan, Aomori City
Aomori City, Japan, claims the top spot with an astonishing average annual snowfall of 312 inches (792 cm)—nearly double that of Sapporo. It’s less “falling” and more “pouring” snow! From November to April, Aomori is blanketed in snow, with piles along the city’s edges often reaching two to three times the height of an adult. This makes it a magnet for skiers and snowboarders each winter.
Exploring the six snowiest places on Earth, I’m amazed that Japan claims the top three spots. It’s surprising, given its geographic proximity to my country, that there’s such a stark difference in snowfall! In my country, rain is far more common than snow. I also find it fascinating that one of the world’s most famous snow festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival, is held in Japan. I’d love to visit Japan during the festival season someday—festivals are always a joy, no matter the weather!