Heavy snowfall battered northern Japan on January 8, 2026, severely disrupting air travel at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido. Footage filmed from inside the terminal shows dense snow dramatically reducing visibility, with parked aircraft barely visible as ground crews in high-visibility gear work to clear runways and tarmacs amid relentless conditions.

The winter storm caused widespread travel chaos across the country, with more than 800 flights canceled or delayed, according to airline and travel reports. Hundreds of passengers were left stranded at major airports, including New Chitose, as airlines such as Japan Airlines grappled with the severe weather.

Meteorological authorities warned that the powerful system could continue to impact transport and daily life in northern regions, urging travelers to check flight updates and exercise caution.

Heavy snowfall battered northern Japan on January 8, 2026, severely disrupting air travel at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido. Footage filmed from inside the terminal shows dense snow dramatically reducing visibility, with parked aircraft barely visible as ground crews in high-visibility gear work to clear runways and tarmacs amid relentless conditions.

The winter storm caused widespread travel chaos across the country, with more than 800 flights canceled or delayed, according to airline and travel reports. Hundreds of passengers were left stranded at major airports, including New Chitose, as airlines such as Japan Airlines grappled with the severe weather.

Meteorological authorities warned that the powerful system could continue to impact transport and daily life in northern regions, urging travelers to check flight updates and exercise caution.

Video credit: @manbou_sousai