Golden Week in Japan: What is it?

Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク) is one of the most anticipated times of the year in Japan. For many Japanese people, it’s a rare opportunity to enjoy several public holidays grouped together, allowing for a real break from their often intense daily routines. But what exactly is Golden Week, and why is it such a big deal?

A series of National Holidays

Golden Week includes four consecutive national holidays (or nearly), from late April to early May:

• April 29: Showa Day (昭和の日)A day to honor Emperor Showa, reflecting on post-war recovery and the Showa era (1926–1989).
• May 3: Constitution Memorial Day (憲法記念日)Celebrates the enactment of Japan’s post-war constitution in 1947.
• May 4: Greenery Day (緑の日)A day to appreciate nature, forests, and the environment.
• May 5: Children’s Day (子どもの日)Celebrates children’s health, happiness, and growth.

A time for major travel

Since these holidays are close together, many people take additional time off to create a longer vacation. This leads to huge travel spikes, with packed trains, airports, and highways. If you plan to travel during Golden Week, book everything well in advance!

What do Japanese people do during Golden Week?

• ⛺ Travel domestically to places like Kyoto, Okinawa, or Hokkaido
• 🌎 Some take trips abroad
• 🌾 Many visit their hometowns to see family
• 🎡 Others join local festivals or relax in parks

Loved but not always relaxing

Ironically, Golden Week is sometimes nicknamed “Golden Stress Week” due to the overwhelming crowds and travel difficulties. Tourist sites are often overcrowded, prices surge, and accommodations fill up fast.

A note for travelers

If you’re planning to visit Japan during Golden Week, plan your itinerary ahead: lodging, transport, tickets. Still, it’s a fantastic chance to see Japan in full celebration mode — families in kimono, colorful koinobori flying, and a joyful, festive atmosphere nationwide.

Key dates to remember (2025)

• April 29 (Monday)
• May 3 (Saturday)
• May 4 (Sunday)
• May 5 (Monday)

In some years, depending on how the calendar aligns, a full week of holidays may be possible.

In summary

Golden Week is much more than just days off. It’s a moment when Japan slows down (or moves differently!), families reconnect, travelers explore, and Japanese culture shines in full color.

Don’t forget to download my free ebook to start learning Japanese today and get the most out of your future trip!