In brief
Mount Fuji has long been a symbol of beauty and culture in Japan, but this year it experienced its longest snowless period in history.
In a remarkable turn of events, Mount Fuji has been blanketed in snow, breaking its record of 130 years without snow on its peak into November. The iconic mountain, standing at 12,389 feet, is usually crowned with white powder by early October. However, this year it remained bare well into November, causing concern among locals and fans of the majestic landmark. Local officials noted that the unusual sight of the snowless top felt "strange" as many people associate the mountain’s snowy cap with its eternal quality, influencing art and culture for centuries. The first snowfall that marked the end of this record-breaking period was reported on Wednesday, much to the relief of many. Mount Fuji is not only Japan's tallest mountain but also an active volcano, and it usually welcomes climbers during the warmer months from July to September. With its return of snow, the mountain’s beauty is rekindled, and so is the cultural importance it holds in the hearts of the Japanese people.
