Skip to content 
Japan Golden Week 2025: Travel Tips for Japan’s Busiest Holiday
Japan Golden Week 2025 is one of most celebrated and culturally rich holiday periods. For travelers planning a visit to Japan in 2025, Golden Week offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions. Still, it also comes with challenges like large crowds and higher costs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Japan’s busiest holiday season, from its origins to travel tips, so that you can make the most of your experience.
What is Japan Golden Week?
Golden Week is a series of four consecutive national holidays in Japan, often paired with weekends, creating an extended holiday period. It’s a time for celebrations, family gatherings, and travel, making it one of the busiest times of the year in Japan. Here’s a breakdown of the holidays that make up Golden Week:
- Showa Day (April 29) – A day to honor Emperor Showa and reflect on Japan’s history.
- Constitution Memorial Day (May 3) – Celebrating the establishment of Japan’s post-war constitution.
- Greenery Day (May 4) – A day to appreciate nature and the environment.
- Children’s Day (May 5) – A holiday to celebrate children’s happiness and well-being.
Golden Week holds a special place in Japanese culture. It symbolizes a time for relaxation and celebration after the long stretch of winter. For travelers, it provides a rare window into the country’s vibrant festivities and traditions.
For more detailed travel advice, check out this handy guide on Weather in Japan: A Month-by-Month Guide to Japan’s Climate
Japan Golden Week 2025 Dates and Schedule
Golden Week in 2025 falls between Tuesday, April 29, and Monday, May 5. Since April 29 is a Tuesday and May 5 is a Monday, many Japanese workers will take advantage of the long holiday stretch by taking additional paid leave on the in-between working days of May 1 and May 2. This creates a 10-day holiday period for many locals, making it a peak travel time.
Implications for Travelers in 2025:
- Higher Demand for Travel Services: Trains, planes, and buses will be packed during this period.
- Extended Celebrations: With several days off, many families and tourists will join in public events and festivals.
- Potential Travel Delays: Crowds might lead to longer waiting times at attractions and transportation hubs.
Golden Week’s Impact on Travel in Japan
With millions of Japanese citizens traveling domestically and internationally during Golden Week, the impact on tourism infrastructure is significant. Here’s what travelers can expect:
1. Transportation
- Bullet Trains (Shinkansen) and other long-distance trains will likely sell out weeks in advance.
- Flights and buses will be similarly crowded, especially on April 29 and May 5 (start and end dates).
- Consider using a Japan Rail Pass for flexibility, but reserve your seats early!
2. Accommodation
Hotels, ryokans (traditional inns), and Airbnbs will see a surge in demand during Golden Week. Prices will rise significantly, especially in tourist hotspots like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka. It is highly recommended that you book your stay at least 3-6 months in advance.
3. Festivities and Attractions
- Popular landmarks and cultural sites will be bustling with visitors, such as Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple and Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- Many special events and seasonal festivals will attract even more crowds, so plan your itinerary carefully.
Popular Destinations During Japan Golden Week
If you’re visiting Japan in 2025, here are some must-visit locations and experiences to consider:
Cities and Cultural Sites
- Tokyo: Experience vibrant festivals like the Kanda Matsuri and enjoy special discounts at major attractions.
- Kyoto: Explore historic shrines and temples surrounded by spring flora.
- Osaka: Savor local street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki while enjoying theme park adventures at Universal Studios Japan.
Natural Landscapes
- Mount Fuji: Golden Week marks the late spring season, an excellent time for hikes and breathtaking views.
- Hokkaido: See cherry blossoms in bloom if you’ve missed them in southern regions.
- Okinawa: Relax on pristine beaches and enjoy sunny weather.
Festivals and Events
- You can participate in Golden Week parades or seasonal events, such as the Hamamatsu Kite Festival, where giant kites fight in the sky.
Travel Tips for Japan Golden Week 2025
1. Book Everything in Advance
Golden Week is one of the busiest times of the year in Japan. Months ahead, secure your accommodations, transportation tickets, and even popular tours or activities.
2. Plan Around Peak Times
Avoid traveling on April 29 (Showa Day) and May 5 (Children’s Day) when traffic and public transportation are most congested.
3. Use Alternative Routes
- Explore regional railways instead of major train lines.
- Head to lesser-known attractions to avoid overwhelming crowds.
4. Get a Japan Rail Pass
The Japan Rail Pass provides unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, for a fraction of the cost. It’s a lifesaver during this high-demand season.
5. Leverage Technology
Download must-have navigation apps, such as Google Maps (with offline mode), HyperDia (for train schedules), and Google Translate.
Understanding Japan Golden Week Culture and Etiquette
Golden Week is not just about holidays; it’s deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Here’s how you can show respect as a visitor:
- Be Patient: Expect long lines and packed spaces. Stay polite even during peak crowds.
- Follow Customs: Observe proper etiquette at shrines and temples, such as bowing and washing your hands at purification fountains.
- Try Local Delights: Indulge in Golden Week-themed treats like kashiwa-mochi (oak leaf-wrapped rice cakes).
Pros and Cons of Visiting During Japan Golden Week
Pros
- Immersive cultural experiences and vibrant local festivals.
- Travel-friendly weather (mild and sunny spring).
- It is a unique chance to see Japan’s celebratory side.
Cons
- Crowds, long lines, and higher travel expenses.
- Sold-out accommodations and transportation if unprepared.
Golden Week can be the perfect time to visit if meaningful cultural immersion and festive energy appeal to you. However, another season may suit you better if you prefer quiet escapes.
Practical Advice for Travelers
- Packing Tips: Bring lightweight clothing for mild temperatures, but don’t forget a light evening jacket.
- Emergency Numbers: Save local hotline contacts, such as the Japan Travel Help Line (+81-50-3816-2787).
- Cash is King: Many rural areas still prefer cash over cards. Have yen on hand.
Make Japan Golden Week 2025 Unforgettable
Golden Week in Japan presents a colorful, exciting opportunity to experience the nation’s festive spirit. While the crowds and prices may present challenges, the rewards of vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences make it worth planning for.
Start planning your visit today, and get ready to immerse yourself in the incredible sights, sounds, and flavors of Japan Golden Week 2025! Whether you’re exploring the iconic temples of Kyoto or kites soaring high in Hamamatsu, it’s a trip you’ll remember for a lifetime.
FAQs about Japan’s Golden Week, holidays, and travel in 2025:
1. What is the Golden Week holiday in Japan about?
Golden Week is a collection of four national holidays within seven days, making it one of Japan’s three busiest holiday seasons. The holidays are Showa Day (April 29), Constitution Memorial Day (May 3), Greenery Day (May 4), and Children’s Day (May 5). Many people take paid leave to create a longer vacation, leading to nationwide travel, family gatherings, and special events. The week is called “Golden” because it’s a golden opportunity for leisure and business, with travel and tourism booming during this period.
2. What is Japan’s Golden Week in 2025?
In 2025, Golden Week runs from April 29 (Showa Day) to May 5 (Children’s Day), with some people extending their break to May 6 if a substitute holiday is applied. During this period, Japan celebrates four national holidays, and many people take additional paid leave to enjoy an extended vacation.
3. How busy is Japan during the Golden Week?
Japan is extremely busy during Golden Week. Trains, airports, highways, and sightseeing spots are crowded, and accommodations in tourist areas are often booked out well in advance. Expect long lines at attractions and higher prices for travel and hotels.
4. What is Japan’s biggest holiday?
Japan’s biggest holiday is New Year’s (Shogatsu), celebrated from December 29 to January 3. It is considered the most important holiday, with families gathering and many businesses closing for several days.
5. Is Golden Week paid in Japan?
The four national holidays during Golden Week are paid days off for most full-time employees. Many workers also use their paid vacation days to extend their holiday. However, not all businesses are closed, and some employees may work during this period, especially in retail, hospitality, and transportation.
6. When to visit Japan in 2025?
The best times to visit Japan in 2025 are spring (late March to mid-April for cherry blossoms) and late autumn (November for fall foliage). These seasons offer beautiful scenery and pleasant weather. Golden Week is lively but crowded, so avoid late April to early May if you prefer fewer crowds.
7. What is Golden Week Japan business?
“Golden Week business” refers to the surge in economic activity during the holiday, especially in travel, hospitality, and retail. Businesses see increased sales as people travel, dine out, and shop. The term also highlights the importance of this period for the tourism industry, with many companies offering special deals and events.
8. How long did Japan’s golden age last?
Japan’s “golden age” often refers to its postwar economic boom, which lasted from the 1950s to the early 1990s. This era saw rapid growth, industrialization, and rising living standards. Golden Week as a holiday period, however, has existed since the late 1940s and continues annually.
9. What is the busiest holiday in Japan?
The busiest holidays in Japan are New Year’s (Shogatsu), Golden Week, and Obon (mid-August). These periods see the highest levels of domestic travel and crowded transportation hubs.
10. Where to travel in the Golden Week?
During Golden Week, popular destinations include Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa, Hokkaido, and major festival sites. Consider less-traveled regions like Gifu, Nagano, Tohoku, Miyoshi, or Hida Furukawa to avoid crowds. Outdoor spots, local festivals, and countryside pilgrimages are also recommended.
11. What is Japan’s busiest season?
Japan’s busiest travel seasons are Golden Week (late April–early May), New Year’s (late December–early January), cherry blossom season (late March–early April), and Obon (mid-August).
12. What is the average salary in Japan?
In 2025, the average annual salary in Japan will be about ¥4.60 million (roughly $29,374 USD), with the median closer to ¥3.96 million ($25,313 USD). The average monthly salary will be around ¥318,300 before taxes.
13. Is there holiday pay in Japan?
Yes, employees are entitled to paid leave on national holidays. Depending on company policy and labor agreements, employees who work on a statutory holiday may also be entitled to premium pay.
14. Is Japan crowded during Golden Week?
Yes, Japan is very crowded during Golden Week. Transportation, tourist attractions, and hotels are packed with higher prices due to increased demand.
15. What is the purpose of Golden Week in Japan?
Golden Week provides a series of national holidays that allow people to rest, travel, and spend time with family. It also boosts the economy through increased travel, leisure, and shopping spending.
16. Is there school during Golden Week in Japan?
No, most schools are closed during Golden Week, as the holidays are national. Some universities or private institutions may have different schedules, but generally, students have time off.
17. How to avoid crowds during Golden Week?
- Book early: Reserve trains, hotels, and tickets in advance.
- Travel off-peak: Use overnight buses or travel early in the morning/late at night.
- Visit less popular destinations: Explore rural areas or alternative attractions.
- Use crowd-tracking apps: Apps like Yahoo! Transit or Google Maps Live help avoid congestion.
- Go early or late: Arrive at attractions before opening or after peak hours.
18. How to avoid crowds in Japan?
In general, visit popular sites early or late in the day, travel during shoulder seasons (not during major holidays), and explore less-visited regions. Booking in advance and using Technology to track crowds also helps.
19. Do you need a visa for Japan?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries have visa exemption arrangements with Japan, allowing short-term stays for tourism without a visa. Always check the latest requirements with the Japanese embassy or official immigration website before traveling.
