Heavy Snowfall Descends on Tokyo During Critical University Entrance Exam Period

On February 8, 2026, a powerful winter storm brought significant snowfall to central Tokyo, recording up to 5 centimeters of accumulation in some areas, marking a rare event for the urban center. This unexpected weather disrupted daily life, transportation networks, and notably, the high-stakes university entrance examinations (known as daigaku nyūshi or individual university admissions tests) for numerous private institutions in the Tokyo metropolitan area. These exams are a pivotal step in Japan's rigorous higher education admissions process, following the national University Entrance Common Test held earlier in January.

Japan's university admissions system is highly competitive, with students often spending years in intensive preparation at cram schools (juku) to secure spots at top institutions. The timing of this snowfall coincided with peak private university exam season in February, exacerbating challenges for thousands of applicants commuting from across the region.

Transportation Chaos Amplifies Exam Disruptions

Public transportation, the lifeline for most examinees, faced widespread delays and cancellations. Trains on major lines like the Tokaido Shinkansen operated at reduced speeds between Tokyo's Shinagawa and Shizuoka's Atami, while local subway and rail services reported significant holdups due to slippery tracks and low visibility. In central Tokyo, 3 cm of snow by early morning had already caused slick roads and pedestrian hazards, prompting universities to monitor real-time transit updates closely.

Examinees, many traveling from distant suburbs or neighboring prefectures, encountered unprecedented difficulties. Reports from social media and news outlets highlighted students slipping on untreated sidewalks and waiting extended periods at stations, heightening anxiety ahead of their tests.

Key Universities Affected and Specific Delay Measures

Several prominent Tokyo universities swiftly adjusted their schedules to accommodate the weather. Here's a breakdown of confirmed changes:

• Hosei University: Delayed the start of entrance exams by 30 to 60 minutes, citing transportation delays as the primary reason. This private institution, known for its law and economics programs, posted urgent notices on its website.
• Musashino Art University: Postponed all subjects by one hour, starting at 10:30 a.m. instead of the planned 9:30 a.m., to account for ongoing snow impacts on roads and rails.
• Chuo University: Initially reported delays but updated to proceed on schedule as of 7:50 a.m., allowing late arrivals extra time without penalty.
• Komazawa University and Tokyo Polytechnic University: Issued preemptive warnings about potential delays, emphasizing check-ins with their admissions offices.

Other institutions like Tokyo University of Science opted to hold exams on time but extended grace periods for weather-related tardiness. These decisions were made dynamically, balancing fairness with safety.

Student Perspectives: Anxiety and Resilience Amid the Storm ❄️

For many high school seniors, this snowfall added an uncontrollable variable to an already pressurized process. One anonymous student shared on social platforms, "I've prepared for months at juku, but now trains are stopped—will I miss my shot at Hosei?" Universities responded with hotlines and live updates, but the psychological toll was evident.

Stakeholders, including parents and educators, praised the proactive measures while calling for better contingency planning. Experts note that such events test not just academic knowledge but adaptability—a key trait for future university life.

Historical Context: Past Snowstorms and Exam Disruptions

This isn't the first time weather has intersected with Japan's exam season. In February 2024, 9 cm of snow in Tokyo led to widespread exam postponements and school closures. Similarly, the 2014 blizzard delayed multiple tests, with universities like those in Tokyo extending deadlines.

During the January 2026 Common Test, snow in regions like Niigata and Akita caused minor delays at 11 universities. Patterns show February's variable weather poses ongoing risks, prompting some institutions to explore remote proctoring pilots.

For more on historical trends, see the Japan Times coverage.

University Protocols: Communication and Fairness Protocols

Japanese universities demonstrated robust crisis management. Protocols typically include:

• Real-time monitoring of Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) forecasts and transit apps.
• Designated contact numbers on admission tickets for immediate updates.
• Grace periods (15-60 minutes) for late arrivals, with adjusted exam durations to maintain equity.
• Backup venues or rescheduling for severe cases.

Digital tools like LINE groups and university portals proved vital, allowing instant notifications. Admissions directors emphasized student safety over rigid timelines, aligning with Japan's holistic evaluation trends incorporating interviews and essays alongside tests.

Overlapping Challenges: Snap Election Adds to the Mix

Compounding the issue, February 8 marked a snap general election called by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, drawing criticism for clashing with exam season. Heavy snow suppressed voter turnout while students juggled civic duties and personal futures. Political analysts from the University of Tokyo noted the 'extremely unreasonable' timing, especially in snowy regions.

For higher education, this highlights the need for synchronized national calendars to protect young applicants.

Implications for Admissions and Equity

Delays raise questions of fairness: Do weather-affected students gain undue advantages? Universities mitigate via standardized extensions, but rural applicants face compounded hurdles. Statistics show ~500,000 students in the Common Test alone, with private exams affecting tens of thousands more.

Long-term, such events could influence pass rates and enrollment at affected schools. Institutions like Hosei may see slight dips if rescheduling stresses candidates.

Safety First: Measures and Student Advice

Prioritizing well-being, universities urged layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and early departures. Actionable tips for future events:

• Check JMA and transit apps nightly.
• Carry ID, tickets, and emergency contacts.
• Opt for multiple routes; walk if feasible.
• Stay hydrated and calm—mental prep is key.

Explore higher ed career paths and university job opportunities in Japan while preparing.

Looking Ahead: Climate Trends and Adaptive Strategies

With climate change intensifying extreme weather, experts predict more disruptions. Universities are investing in hybrid exams and AI proctoring. Policymakers may revise exam windows to avoid winter peaks.

For aspiring students, resilience training via platforms like Rate My Professor and career advice builds well-rounded profiles.

Photo by note thanun on Unsplash

Navigating Japan's Higher Education Landscape Post-Disruption

Despite challenges, Japan's universities remain beacons of excellence. Post-exam, focus on second rounds, recommendations, and scholarships. AcademicJobs.com supports your journey with resources for Japan higher ed jobs, faculty positions, and more. Stay informed, stay prepared—your future awaits.