How do people in Hokkaido know when snow is coming? They look for ‘Yuki-mushi.’ When you see a Yuki-mushi, it is said that snow will fall within two weeks. Yuki-mushi are a species of aphid with bodies covered in cotton-like white down, which is why they are called Yuki-mushi (‘Yuki’ means snow and ‘Mushi’ means insect). These insects are believed to herald the coming of snow, signaling the arrival of winter. Recently, Yuki-mushi have been seen actively flying for more than two weeks, so it’s certain that snow will soon blanket Sapporo and the rest of Hokkaido. Winter is almost here, and autumn has quickly passed. Make sure to prepare a warm jacket or down coat if you’re planning to visit Hokkaido.
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