Japanese holidays reflect the country’s deep cultural traditions, seasonal awareness and strong sense of community. For UK travellers planning a trip to Japan, understanding national holidays is essential for itinerary planning, hotel pricing and transport availability. For cultural readers, Japanese holidays offer insight into history, religion and modern society.
This guide explains the major Japanese public holidays, when they take place and what they mean in practice, with practical considerations for UK visitors.
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How Japanese Public Holidays Work
Japan observes several national public holidays each year. When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is usually observed as a substitute holiday. This system can create long weekends and increased domestic travel.
For UK travellers, this often means:
- Higher hotel prices
- Increased demand for train tickets
- Busier tourist attractions
- Limited availability for popular restaurants
Advance planning is particularly important during major holiday periods.
New Year (Shogatsu)
New Year is the most important holiday period in Japan. Celebrated from 1 January, many businesses close from 29 December through the first few days of January.
Traditions include:
- Visiting shrines or temples for the first prayer of the year
- Family gatherings
- Traditional New Year meals
For travellers, this period can mean limited business operations but also unique cultural experiences.
Coming of Age Day (January)
Held on the second Monday of January, Coming of Age Day celebrates young people who have turned 20 in the past year. Ceremonies take place at local government offices, and many participants wear traditional clothing.
Visitors may see formal attire and celebrations across cities and towns.
Golden Week (Late April to Early May)
Golden Week is one of the busiest travel periods in Japan. It combines several national holidays into one extended break.
Key holidays during Golden Week include:
- Showa Day
- Constitution Memorial Day
- Greenery Day
- Children’s Day
For UK travellers, Golden Week often results in higher accommodation costs and crowded transport systems. Booking well in advance is essential.
Marine Day (July)
Marine Day celebrates the importance of the sea to Japan. It falls on the third Monday in July and marks the unofficial start of summer holidays for many residents.
Coastal areas can become particularly busy during this period.
Mountain Day (August)
Mountain Day, observed on 11 August, encourages appreciation of Japan’s mountainous landscape. It contributes to increased domestic tourism, especially in rural and alpine regions.
Respect for the Aged Day (September)
This September holiday honours older members of society. Community events and family gatherings are common.
It often creates a long weekend, increasing domestic travel within Japan.
Autumnal and Vernal Equinox Days
Japan observes both the Spring Equinox (March) and Autumn Equinox (September) as national holidays. These dates are tied to astronomical events and are often associated with visiting family graves and reflecting on nature.
They also form part of longer holiday clusters known as Silver Week in some years.
Culture Day (November)
Held on 3 November, Culture Day promotes arts, academics and freedom. Museums and cultural institutions may host special events.
Emperor’s Birthday (February)
The Emperor’s Birthday is a national holiday celebrated in February. Public celebrations may include limited access to parts of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
Cherry Blossom Season and Informal Holidays
While not a public holiday, cherry blossom season in late March and early April functions like a major national event. Families and colleagues gather for outdoor viewing parties.
For UK travellers, this period is extremely popular and requires early booking due to global demand.
How Japanese Holidays Affect Travel Prices
Domestic travel demand during major holiday periods significantly influences pricing.
- Golden Week is the most expensive travel period
- New Year sees limited business operations
- Cherry blossom season drives international demand
- Summer holidays increase domestic resort pricing
Travelling outside these peak periods often results in better hotel availability and more manageable crowd levels.
Best Time for UK Travellers to Visit Japan
For value and comfort, many UK travellers choose:
- Late May after Golden Week
- Early June before the rainy season intensifies
- Late October for autumn foliage
Avoiding major domestic holiday clusters can improve overall travel experience.
Cultural Etiquette During Japanese Holidays
Visitors should be aware of respectful behaviour at shrines and temples during religious observances. Observing quietly, dressing appropriately and following local customs enhances cultural engagement.
Understanding holiday timing also helps when planning business travel or meetings.
Japanese Holidays vs UK Bank Holidays
Unlike the UK system of widely spaced bank holidays, Japan’s calendar includes clustered periods that significantly impact transport and accommodation. Planning ahead is therefore more critical when travelling to Japan compared to most European destinations.
Final Thoughts on Japanese Holidays
Japanese holidays provide valuable insight into the country’s traditions, seasonal rhythms and social values. For UK travellers, awareness of major holiday periods such as Golden Week and New Year is essential for both budgeting and itinerary planning.
By understanding how public holidays affect pricing, crowd levels and cultural events, you can plan a trip to Japan that balances experience, value and convenience.
If you are considering travel to Japan, reviewing the holiday calendar should be one of your first planning steps.