Japan: Golden Week celebrations to take place nationwide April 29-May 7

Event

Japan will observe four separate national holidays during the 2023 Golden Week period April 29-May 7. Many businesses, along with nonessential government offices, will remain closed during the holiday period. Banks will suspend operations, though some limited services may continue.

Golden Week typically results in a surge in travel within the country several days before and after the official holiday celebration. Traffic disruptions on national and regional expressways may occur, as some people may use private vehicles since many may view them as a safer means of transport. If traffic disruptions occur, they are most likely on highways linking major urban centers, particularly as the holiday period begins and concludes. Increased demand for hotels and private car services in urban centers and rural tourist areas is also likely.

Advice

Follow official health and travel recommendations. Consider minimizing unnecessary trips during the holiday period. If travel is unavoidable, arrive at airports and train stations earlier than usual due to potential delays at check-in counters and security checkpoints. Make arrangements for banking transactions before or after the holiday period.