The 31-year-old topped the podium in her 68th World Cup outing at the Japanese hill, leaping out to 135.5 metres and 130m for a points score of 250.8.

Her success continues a fine run of Austrian form after compatriots won the last two events on the circuit.

Marita Kramer was successful in the first Sapporo event yesterday while Chiara Hölzl won in Klingenthal in Germany on December 14.

"It's a great feeling to win," said Pinkelnig after her success at the Ōkurayama Ski Jump Stadium, which was used for the 1972 Winter Olympics.

"I had three great jumps together with the qualification round, the hill was prepared perfectly. 

"I'm really happy about my results. 

"It's my first World Cup win, I'm surprised and I can't believe it. 

"I woke up today and I had a good feeling." 

Norway's Olympic and world champion Maren Lundby had to settle for silver for the second consecutive day, despite her second jump of 139.5m breaking the hill record.

Lundby, who is hoping to win the overall World Cup title for the third year in a row, also jumped 121.5m for an overall tally of 239.6.

Daniela Iraschko-Stolz continued the Austrian good form with bronze, jumping 117.5m and 135.5m for a score of 227.4.

After five events of the season, Lundby continues to lead the overall standings after winning the first two competitions in Lillehammer.

She has 405 points with Hölzl in second on 330.

Pinkelnig, who had finished on the podium twice this season before her success today, is now third on 309.

The World Cup season will now remain in Japan, with individual competitions in Zao on January 17 and 19.

The first team event of the season will be held in between, on January 18.