If you’re traveling to Japan, watch out for the traffic on National Holidays
What to expect during holidays in Japan?
National holidays in Japan will see many stores closed or with reduced hours. While this doesn’t mean, traffic will absolutely increase (unless you’re traveling during the last week of December, the first week of January, Golden Week, or Obon Holiday), it may disrupt your plans nonetheless. So, check ahead to see how the holiday impacts your itinerary. You may even find some special events nearby.
What are the National Holidays?
- January 1st: New Years
- 2nd Monday of January: Coming-of-Age
- February 11th: National Foundation Day
- February 23rd: Emperor’s Birthday
- March 20th/ 21st: Vernal Equinox
- April 29th: Showa Day
- May 3rd: Constitution Memorial
- May 4th: Greenery Day
- May 5th: Children’s Day
- 3rd Monday of July: Marine Day
- August 11th: Mountain Day
- 3rd Monday of September: Respect for the Aged
- September 22nd or 23rd: Autumnal Equinox
- 2nd Monday of October: Health and Sports Day
- November 3rd: Culture Day
- November 23rd: Labor Thanksgiving Day
Tips for Japanese Holidays
You may notice that many holidays fall on a Monday. Japan’s Happy Monday System can claim credit for that, ensuring many holidays were moved to Mondays to better benefit employees. So, if you remember one thing from this post–beware Mondays.
Reserve everything you can in advance. If you buy a Japan Rail Pass from the official site, you can reserve your seat one month in advance! If you don’t have the pass, you can reserve seats on the shinkansen using smart-ex! Give either a try!
Beyond National Holidays
Sometimes you may find transportation like metros busy. Keep an eye out for rush hour (7AM-9AM and 5PM-7PM), as well unlisted holidays like Star Festival (tanabata) or Christmas (try out KFC)!
What did you do for the Holidays?
Did you travel? Stay in? Let us know in the comments!
