Golden Week: Japan's Busiest Holiday Season
Golden Week is one of the three main holiday seasons in Japan, generally falling between April 29th and May 5th every year. It isn't actually one long holiday, but rather several different holidays that happen to fall within the same week. Since Golden Week is the only long holiday season in Japan where it isn't traditional to return to one's hometown, it is the time when many Japanese people choose to take vacations domestically or abroad. This makes Golden Week one of the busiest times of the year.
Let's take a look at the different holidays during Golden Week, things you need to be aware of during this holiday season, and some ways that you can enjoy yourself if you find yourself in Japan during this busy time of year.
The Golden Week Holidays
Four major holidays fall within Golden Week. They are:
・Showa Day (April 29th)
This holiday falls on the birthday of the former Emperor Showa, the namesake of Japan's Showa Era. This holiday is meant to be a day that reflects on the turbulent times during the Showa Era, but for most people, it is now just a day off from work.
・Constitution Memorial Day (May 3rd)
This holiday commemorates the enactment of the post-war Japanese Constitution in 1947.
・Greenery Day (May 4th)
This holiday is dedicated to appreciating nature, so many people will try to get out and do something in the outdoors on this day.
・Children's Day (May 5th)
This holiday is dedicated to celebrating the health and happiness of all children, but traditionally, it was dedicated to boys specifically. To this day, there are special festivals celebrating boys held on and around Children's Day, while girls are celebrated on Hinamatsuri, or Girl's Day, in March.
Things to be Aware Of during Golden Week
While having a long holiday seems great on paper (and it is!), there are some important things you need to keep in mind during Golden Week.
・Banks Are Closed
During Golden Week, many bank branches will be closed. If you need to do any banking around the end of the month or the beginning of the month, try to do it as early as possible. Banks will be very busy right before Golden Week and from April 30th to May 2nd, so if you do not want to be stuck waiting, get your banking done early.
・ATM Fees May Be Higher
In the past, ATMs were often closed during national holidays, but these days many are still operational on holidays. However, fees for using the ATMs will likely be higher on holidays. If you need to take out some cash or do any other banking through an ATM, again it is best to do it well before Golden Week to avoid long lines at the ATM and higher withdrawal fees.
・Increased Traffic on the Roads and Accidents
Many people choose to travel during Golden Week, which can lead to all kinds of problems. The increased traffic on highways tends to lead to more traffic jams and accidents during Golden Week. If you plan on driving somewhere, leave early in the morning if possible. In 2024, traffic will likely be the worst on May 3rd when people are leaving urban centers like Tokyo to travel to other parts of the country, and on May 5th and 6th when people are heading home. And most importantly, if you do drive during Golden Week, drive safely!
・Everywhere Will be Crowded and More Expensive
Trains and airports will also be much more crowded during Golden Week, so if you plan on taking a plane or train somewhere again, leave early or be prepared to deal with huge crowds. Hotel and airplane ticket prices will also be much higher during Golden Week, so booking these as early as possible will help you avoid paying far more than you might want to.
Popular tourist spots across Japan will also be much busier during Golden Week, so once you arrive at your destination, be prepared for crowds. More and more international tourists are coming to Japan every year, and that, on top of all of the domestic tourism, leads to crowds absolutely everywhere. If you don't like crowds, consider trying to visit areas that are not as touristy or popular.
Golden Week Events in 2025
Here are some events, festivals, and locations worth checking out if you are planning on taking a trip in Japan during Golden Week this year.
・Hirosaki Park Cherry Blossom Festival in Aomori
Celebrate spring at Hirosaki Park in Aomori, home to over 2,500 cherry trees. With Hirosaki Castle at the center, the park transforms into a sea of pink during sakura season. Enjoy hanami picnics, take a stroll along the moats, and check out the traditional performances happening throughout the park.
・Lavender Experience in Furano, Hokkaido
If you're heading to Hokkaido in early summer, Furano's lavender fields are a must-see. The rolling purple hills are not only beautiful to look at--they also smell amazing. You'll find lavender-themed sweets, soft-serve ice cream, and even hands-on workshops.
・Kamakura Shogunate Foundation Festival in Kamakura
Take a trip back in time with the Kamakura Shogunate Foundation Festival. Held in April, this event celebrates the city's samurai history with costumed parades, traditional performances, and a festive atmosphere throughout the old capital.
・Kanazawa Culinary Walk
Explore the flavors of Kanazawa on a casual food walk. You can try local specialties like fresh seafood, Kaga vegetables, and wagashi (traditional sweets), often decorated with the region's signature gold leaf. It's a great way to explore the historic neighborhoods while snacking your way through town.
・Dotonbori Street Food in Osaka
No trip to Osaka is complete without eating your way through Dotonbori. This lively area is packed with street food stalls and restaurants serving up takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and more. It's a great place to soak in the city's bold, fun-loving vibe.
・Art Festival in Naoshima and Teshima in the Seto Inland Sea
For something a bit different, hop on a ferry to Naoshima or Teshima--two small islands known for their modern art museums and open-air installations. It's a peaceful spot where you can wander through nature while discovering contemporary art around every corner.
・Forest Bathing Tour on Yakushima
Unplug and unwind on Yakushima, a lush island known for its ancient cedar forests. Take a guided forest bathing tour (called shinrin-yoku) to reconnect with nature and see some of Japan's oldest trees, including the famous Jomon Sugi.
Service Areas with Dog Parks in Japan
Planning to travel by car this Golden Week, and bringing a furry friend along? If so, here are some service areas around Japan with very dog-friendly facilities.
・Azusagawa SA (Nagano-bound): A peaceful spot with great mountain views and separate spaces where both small and large dogs can play.
・Nanjo SA (both directions, Fukui): Surrounded by nature, this quiet dog park is a great spot to relax.
・EXPASA Ashigara (both directions): A spacious area with plenty of room for dogs of all sizes, plus handy amenities nearby for travelers.
・NEOPASA Shizuoka (both directions): Clean and convenient, this dog park is a nice place for pets to relax and enjoy a break from the road.
・NEOPASA Surugawan-Numazu (both directions): With ocean views and separate sections for different dog sizes, it's a great spot to recharge by the sea.
・Suzuka PA (both directions): One of the biggest dog parks along the highway, offering 700㎡ for large dogs and 550㎡ for smaller pups to roam freely.
・NEOPASA Okazaki (both directions): There are separate areas for small and medium-to-large dogs, plus a shop with treats and goods for your pets.
・Taga SA (Nagoya-bound, Shiga): Known for its clean, grassy space and separate areas for different dog sizes--a solid option for a quick stop and playtime.
・Kameyama PA (Shiga-bound): A quieter spot in Kansai with a simple dog park and shaded resting areas, perfect for a more laid-back break.
Have a Safe and Fun Golden Week!
While you do need to be ready to deal with crowds, Golden Week is such a lively time in Japan because people can fully take advantage of their vacation time. If you are planning on traveling, be it by car, train, or plane, be sure to stay safe and have a wonderful vacation!
