Planning a trip to Japan during Golden Week 2026? You're in for an unforgettable experience; this vibrant holiday season is arguably the best time to experience the essence of Japanese culture and traditions.

Golden Week springs to life with festivities right across the country, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to Japan to immerse themselves in the nation’s rich heritage. From historical parades to family-friendly events, there are countless ways to experience Japan coming alive during this festive period. But navigating this busy time can be challenging without proper planning.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll equip you with essential Japan vacation tips and insider advice on what to expect and how to fully savor your Golden Week adventure in Japan. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or it's your first time visiting Japan, we'll will help you make the most of your trip.

Golden Week is a significant series of national holidays in Japan that cluster together within a week, creating one of the country's most anticipated vacation periods alongside New Year and the Obon Festival. There's four public holidays in just one week.

Whether you're planning on attending Golden Week festivities or not, it's important to know the dates to make sure you can make the most of it, or avoid the crowds if it's not your cup of tea. This holiday stretch offers a rare window for travellers as the entire country bursts with vibrant festivals, family activities, and traditional celebrations.

In 2026, Golden Week starts on Wednesday, April 29 and ends on Wednesday, May 5, 2025.

The holidays that make up Golden Week include:

Many of Japan's famous shrines and temples hold special events and ceremonies during Golden Week, providing a perfect opportunity to witness traditional Japanese culture in action.

Various traditional festivities occur throughout Golden Week in Japan:

While cherry blossoms will be past their peak in most of Japan, you can still catch late blooms in the northern Tohoku region during Golden Week.

Golden Week can be hectic, so take time to unwind at a traditional Japanese hot spring. Kinosaki Onsen is particularly famous for its seven public bath houses and traditional atmosphere.

Traveloka Tip: After a busy day of sightseeing, an onsen visit is the perfect way to rejuvenate and experience an essential aspect of Japanese culture.

For a more lighthearted activity, spend the day at popular theme parks:

Wondering golden week where to go to make the most of your trip? Japan offers a variety of regional experiences during this festive period, from city celebrations to coastal escapes. Here are some of the top destinations to consider for your Golden Week holiday:

Make the most of your stay by booking a centrally located hotel near Shinjuku or Ueno for easy access to events and transit hubs.

Considering staying in a central location such as Gion or near Kyoto Station offers convenient access to popular sites.

Booking a hotel in central Sapporo or near major transit lines helps maximize your sightseeing opportunities.

Look for a hotel near the beach or in central Naha to enjoy both relaxation and cultural experiences.

Transportation will be extremely busy during this period. Here are some tips:

First and foremost, prepare for crowds! Golden Week is one of the busiest travel periods in Japan, with locals and international tourists flocking to popular destinations across the country.

Tourist attractions, restaurants, public transportation, and accommodations will be significantly more crowded than usual. However, don't let this deter you—the lively atmosphere and energy of the celebrations make the experience worthwhile.

Traveloka Tip: Book your favorite attraction tickets well in advance through Traveloka to ensure you can visit all the top spots without worries during Japan's Golden Week!

Transportation and accommodation prices often surge during this period, and tickets can sell out quickly. Some businesses may close for the entire week as employees take their annual vacation.

Yes, traveling to Japan during Golden Week can be significantly more expensive than at other times of the year. Flights, hotels, and transportation often see a sharp increase in prices due to the high demand from both domestic and international travelers. Popular attractions may also raise their rates, and availability becomes limited quickly, making it harder to secure bookings unless planned well in advance. This surge in costs is especially noticeable in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, where tourism peaks during this period.

To manage expenses effectively, it's crucial to plan ahead. Booking accommodations, flights, and train tickets 3–6 months in advance can help you secure better deals and guarantee availability. In 2025, note that the Japan Rail Pass requires seat reservations during Golden Week, as non-reserved seats won’t be offered—so plan accordingly. You can also save by traveling during off-peak hours or exploring lesser-known regions, which tend to be less crowded and more budget-friendly during the holiday rush.

Due to the high demand, secure your accommodations, transportation, and attraction tickets as early as possible—ideally 3-6 months before your trip.

Traveloka Tip: Japan Rail Pass reservations can be made 30 days in advance. Important note for 2025: Non-reserved seats will NOT be available during Golden Week. You must purchase reserved seat tickets on either Ordinary or Green Car.

With numerous festivals, parades, and events taking place throughout Japan during Golden Week, planning is essential. Organize your schedule ahead of time to ensure you don't miss out on must-see attractions and experiences.

Try to avoid peak rush hours when moving between destinations. Consider early morning or late evening travel times when possible, and allow extra time for all transportation.

For a comfortable Golden Week experience, remember to pack:

During Golden Week, Japan’s spring temperatures generally range between 13°C to 23°C (55°F to 73°F) depending on the region, with cooler mornings and evenings. Travel light since you'll be on the move frequently and wouldn't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage. Pack clothing that you can mix and match, and avoid revealing or provocative attire as a way of showing respect for Japanese culture.

Travel light since you'll be on the move frequently and wouldn't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage. Pack clothing that you can mix and match, and avoid revealing or provocative attire as a way of showing respect for Japanese culture.

Golden Week is about more than just sightseeing—it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Whether you're attending traditional ceremonies, experiencing local festivals, enjoying seasonal cuisine, or simply observing daily life during this special time, embrace the unique energy of this remarkable holiday period.

Despite the crowds, Golden Week offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese society and traditions that you won't experience at any other time of year.

In addition to Golden Week, Japan also celebrates Silver Week, a shorter holiday period in September. Silver Week comprises two national holidays: Respect for the Aged Day (third Monday of September) and Autumnal Equinox Day (around September 22 or 23). When these holidays align with a single working day in between, that day becomes a public holiday as well, creating an extended break. However, this alignment doesn't happen every year; the next full Silver Week is expected in 2026. During Silver Week, many Japanese people take the opportunity to travel, enjoy early autumn festivals, or spend time with family, making it a vibrant yet less crowded alternative to Golden Week. ​

To prepare for a holiday in Japan comfortably and easily, book hotel, travel activities and plane tickets on Traveloka. You can also order various other interesting activities in various countries including Japan easily. Come on, plan your holiday with Traveloka. Enjoy your trip in 2026!

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