Abstract: Based on the data of snowfall from 1980 to 1994, the climatic characteristics of snowfall in Beijing area are investigated. The results show that the interannual variability of snowfall is quite, and the amount of snowfall in November, February and March are larger. Furthermore, There are two kinds of circulation patterns; trough (vortex) pattern, and trough of mid-Siberia and ridge-back of east Siberia pattern. Sufficient moisture and energy are the necessary conditions for snowfall in Beijing area.