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With some planning, Golden Week can be a lot of fun. Whether you want to join the excitement in Tokyo or find quieter places, there’s something for everyone. In this post, we will explain what Golden Week is, what to expect, and share tips to make the most of your trip during this busy holiday.
Golden Week is a cluster of four public holidays that take place in late April and early May. It’s one of Japan’s busiest travel seasons, along with New Year and Obon.
The official holidays are:
In 2026, Golden Week will run from April 29 to May 6, but expect the buzz to start earlier and linger a little longer as people take extra days off to make the most of it.
If you’re traveling during this time, book everything in advance, including trains, hotels, and dinner reservations in busy cities.
Avoid the hassle of switching SIMs or hunting for Wi-Fi.
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Golden Week is nationwide, but how you experience it depends on where you go.
Three things:
From rest stops to busy theme parks, Golden Week is Japan having fun. Expect long lines, but also a lively, festive feeling. Also shops often run special Golden Week sales, so if you’re planning to splurge now’s the time.
But that doesn't mean it's all go, go, go! You'll find a calmer environment at an onsen — a Japanese hot spring or geothermal bath found in the most beautiful rural spots.
While there’s no specific Golden Week cuisine, it’s prime time to sample spring seasonal fare.
Look out for:
And don’t forget to grab a bento box if you’re riding the shinkansen. Eating on the train is practically a Golden Week rite of passage.
Golden Week is fun. But it’s also a logistical challenge. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Most things in Japan stay open during Golden Week, especially shops, restaurants, and attractions in big cities. But make sure to check online if there’s something specific you want to do or see.
Don’t leave bookings for hotels, transport, or restaurants until the last minute, because they fill up fast.
Yes, Golden Week is one of the most expensive times to travel in Japan. Flights, hotels, trains, and even some attractions cost more because it’s a major holiday and lots of people are travelling at that time.
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