Sustainable lifestyles thriving in Japan’s snowy regions

Some parts of Japan are renowned for experiencing heavy snowfall. As of 2023, data indicates that six cities in Japan are among the snowiest in the world. On average, Sapporo the capital city of Hokkaido, receives approximately 4.8 meters (about 191 inches) of snowfall annually.

You may intuitively assume that the cold and prolonged winters are challenging for those who live in the area. The intuition is correct, but people living in yukiguni (snowy regions) in Japan have developed unique and sustainable cultures, which appeal to those living in a fast-paced society.

How does climate change impact snowfall in Japan?

The serious global warming is tangible and affects the snowy areas. The total amount of snow in winter has decreased in comparison with the era of Showa. However, the volume of snow at one time has excessively increased with higher frequency. The drastic change is attributed to rising ocean surface temperature and increased water vapor. These two events generate powerful cold fronts, leading to the occurrence of intense snowstorms.

Tips for sustainable living passed down by the ancestors

Despite the harsh winter, many people have been living in areas with heavy snowfall across generations. Incredible wisdom and tips passed down by the ancestors are glimpsed in snowy regions, where life may seem challenging at first glance.

House

Well-constructed houses, which can be durable in heavy snow, are the most essential. Houses were used not only as a place to live but also as a place to store foods and fuels. Given that, their houses were built with as thick and sturdy pillars and beams as possible. In addition, thatched roofs were applied to enable efficient snow sliding. This architectural style is still used in modern days for its effectiveness in dealing with snow.

Textile culture

Textile is a deep-rooted culture in Japan’s snowy regions. The fabric of Echigo, which is an elegant hemp textile, was created when the harsh winter did not allow the residents to work outside. The textile is beautifully detailed, and it signifies patience and diligence among women in the area of Echigo. After having made improvements in the Edo period, the fabric was given a new added value and renamed Echigo-chijimi.

Aoso is an essential material of Echigo-chijimi, well-suited to high moisture in snowy regions since it is intolerant to dryness. The bleaching of the thread and fabric for the textile is carried out locally, as the process requires a clear blue sky in spring while the surroundings remain snowy. This product leverages regional characteristics, establishing the area as a hub for silk fabric production.

Culinary culture

The climate has cultivated their own culinary culture. They harvest vegetables in the fall and preserve them using traditional methods for the winter.

For example, edible wild plants and mushrooms are pickled in salt and dried. Also, daikon radish is wrapped in straw and stored under snow to last. Storehouses crafted with snow work as refrigerators until summer to store food. Interestingly, stored foods are used differently each season. For instance, pickled vegetables are eaten by themselves in winter, but they are used for stewed foods after removing salt in spring.

Snow festival

Snow festivals are full of vibes in the winter season. The origin differs from each region, but most likely, they originate from a collective thought to aim to brighten their lives in winter and utilize their abandoned spaces covered with snow. The exquisite snow sculpture was crafted by people in snowy regions and has succeeded for centuries as snow art. It also elaborates on cooperation and unity among people, as well as their friendship with snow.

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Ancestors in Japan’s snowy regions have never yielded to the wintery weather. Instead, they have been optimistic and co-existed with snow. Moreover, their spirits and wisdom are inherent and play an important role in contemporary society. Embark on a new adventure and experience the beautifully sustainable lifestyle in the winter wonderland.