Golden Week in Japan: Travel, Traditions, and Travel Tips for 2025

The Origins of Golden Week

Golden Week was established following the enactment of the Public Holiday Law in 1948, which brought together several national holidays into a short period. The term “Golden Week” was coined in 1951 by the Japanese film industry, after noticing a significant spike in movie theater attendance during this period. It was seen as a “golden” opportunity for businesses, and the name stuck. Today, it remains one of Japan’s busiest and most festive times of the year.

What is Golden Week?

Golden Week is a collection of consecutive national holidays in Japan, but one of the most cherished among them is May 5 – Children’s Day (こどもの日). This special day celebrates the healthy growth and happiness of children. Families traditionally raise koinobori (colorful carp-shaped windsocks) outside their homes to symbolize strength and success in life. Inside, they often display samurai helmets (kabuto) or warrior dolls, which are symbols of bravery and protection. Children often enjoy treats like kashiwa mochi (sweet rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves) and chimaki (sweet rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves). Parks, zoos, and amusement areas often host events and activities for families, making it a joyful day of fun and appreciation for young lives.

If weekends and weekdays fall between these holidays, workers often take additional days off, making it a 10-day vacation period in some cases.

In 2025, Golden Week will span from Tuesday, April 29 to Monday, May 5, with Monday, May 6 being an official substitute holiday. Depending on company policies, some workers may extend their holidays even further—possibly taking time off through Sunday, May 11, which coincides with Mother’s Day in Japan.