Plan your trips for 2025 and 2026 with ease by checking key vacation dates, including three- and four-day weekends, Golden Week (GW), Silver Week, and other opportunities for extended holidays. Knowing Japan’s public holidays can help you avoid peak travel times, secure better accommodations, and plan a more relaxing retreat experience.
2025’s Holidays in Japan
Japan will have a total of 19 public holidays and weekends in 2025, offering plenty of opportunities for extended vacations.
There will be nine holiday periods with at least three consecutive days off, making it easier to plan long trips. For example, taking Friday, May 2 off creates a five-day Golden Week (GW) break. GW is a major holiday period in late April to early May, when many businesses close and domestic travel peaks. Similarly, taking Monday, September 22 off extends Silver Week into a four-day weekend. Silver Week occurs in some years when national holidays in September align, providing another chance for a getaway.
Additionally, Japan’s New Year holiday is a significant travel period, with many businesses closed from December 31 to January 3. Since these holidays are popular for domestic and international travel, we recommend planning early to secure accommodations and transportation.
2026’s Holidays in Japan
In 2026, Japan will have 18 public holidays and weekends, one fewer than in 2025. However, there will still be eight holiday periods with at least three consecutive days off.
Golden Week in May offers up to five consecutive holidays from May 2 to May 6, making it a great time for travel. Similarly, Silver Week in September will also provide five consecutive holidays from September 19 to September 23, creating another perfect opportunity for a getaway.
How Many Public Holidays Does Japan Have? A Global Comparison
Japan has an average of 16 national holidays per year, making it one of the countries with the most public holidays. In comparison, the U.S. has around 10, France has 11, and Germany has 10 to 13, depending on the region. Meanwhile, some countries, like India and Russia, have over 20 national holidays. Unlike some countries, Japan does not offer substitute holidays when a national holiday falls on a Saturday, which can affect the total number of days off. Planning ahead will help you make the most of your valuable holidays!
Recommendations for Making the Most of Long Weekends
By strategically planning your trip, you can enjoy your comfortable stay in Japan. Planning your schedule in advance allows you to make the most of your time—whether it’s traveling or enjoying personal hobbies.
Recently, more people are incorporating “retreats” into their holiday plans in addition to traditional travel. A retreat offers a chance to step away from the busyness of daily life and refresh both body and mind.
For example, hot spring retreats in peaceful mountain settings, mindfulness experiences in nature-surrounded accommodations, and programs featuring yoga and meditation are becoming popular ways to unwind and recharge during a vacation.
Make the Most of Japanese Holidays!
Plan ahead by knowing Japan’s holidays in advance to create better travel opportunities. Thoughtful vacation planning can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
We also recommend using long holidays for retreats that refresh both body and mind. Take advantage of the holidays in 2025 and 2026, find a vacation style that suits you, and enjoy a more fulfilling year!
