noun
first snowcap of the season; first settled snow on a mountain
Refers specifically to the first snowfall that visibly remains on a mountain peak, marking the seasonal transition. Often used in weather reports and news about famous mountains like Fuji.
富士山の初冠雪が観測された。
The first snowcap of the season was observed on Mt. Fuji.
今年の初冠雪は平年
This year's first settled snow came earlier than usual.