Golden Week is one of the busiest and most exciting holiday times in Japan. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy the country’s culture, nature, and festivals. This guide will help you plan for Golden Week 2025, with everything you need to know about the dates, top destinations, and helpful tips for making the most of your holiday.
For more useful tips on living in Japan, please refer to the article below.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: What is Golden Week?
Golden Week is a long holiday in Japan from late April to early May. Many national holidays come one after another during this time. It has the most holidays in a row in the year, so many people take extra days off and enjoy a long break.
Japan also has Silver Week in September, but Golden Week usually lasts longer and feels more exciting.
You can read more about Golden Week in the article below.
Chapter 2: Golden Week 2025 Calendar
Golden Week 2025 is one of the best times to travel in Japan. Here is the full schedule. If you take four weekdays off—April 28, April 30, May 1, and May 2—you can enjoy an 11-day holiday!
April 26 (Sat)
April 27 (Sun)
April 28 (Mon) – Weekday
April 30 (Wed) – Weekday
May 1 (Thu) – Weekday
May 2 (Fri) – Weekday
May 3 (Sat, Holiday) – Constitution Memorial Day
May 4 (Sun, Holiday) – Greenery Day
May 5 (Mon, Holiday) – Children’s Day
May 6 (Tue) – Substitute Holiday
Chapter 3: Recommended Destinations
Updated 2025/4/24
Looking for last-minute Golden Week getaways? Check out our latest recommendations here.
Golden Week 2025 is a great time to travel and enjoy nature across Japan. Here are three ideas to help you plan your trip:
1. Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms in Tokyo often fall early due to rain and wind in April, but you can still enjoy sakura in northern Japan. Tohoku and Hokkaido usually reach full bloom during Golden Week. Check the article below for recommended spots to view cherry blossoms, and be sure to check the latest cherry blossom forecast for the best spring views up north.
2. Onsen (Hot Springs)
You can find many relaxing onsen spots near Tokyo. In Shizuoka, soak in hot springs with views of the ocean or Mount Fuji. Gunma also offers natural hot springs surrounded by greenery. If you prefer warmer weather, visit Okinawa to enjoy the beach and a jacuzzi under the sun.
3. Glamping and Camping
Before Japan’s rainy season starts in June, Golden Week is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. Try glamping near Mount Fuji or camp by a river or lake. Japan offers many unique outdoor stays with beautiful views and modern comforts.
Explore more in the links below and find your ideal Golden Week escape.
If you need camping gear, please check the article below.
Chapter 4: Important Tips
Weather
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, temperatures from April 19 to May 2 will likely be higher than average in Hokkaido and Tohoku. The Kanto area may see normal or slightly higher temperatures, and western Japan is expected to stay around average. Watch out for heatstroke and pollen allergies, as both can affect you during this season.
Crowds and Transportation
Expect heavy traffic on highways like the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway and other major roads during Golden Week. Trains, buses, and flights will also be crowded. Always check congestion forecasts in advance and book Shinkansen and other transport tickets as early as possible. Check the latest traffic jams for 2025 below.
Here’s a guide on how to buy Shinkansen tickets—check below for details.
Bank and Hospital Hours
Banks usually follow the calendar, but most will close on national holidays. If you need to visit the bank, go before Golden Week begins. Keep in mind that late April can be busy with people preparing early.
Most hospitals (except emergency ones) will close during the holidays. Even on weekdays during Golden Week, many places may still be crowded. If you take regular medication, make sure to refill your prescriptions ahead of time.
