Japan has 16 national holidays in 2026, plus two extra days off on May 6 and September 22. The next holiday periods are Obon from August 13 to 16, extended by Mountain Day on Tuesday August 11, and Silver Week from September 19 to 23, the first Silver Week since 2015.
Japan has 16 national public holidays in 2026, set by the Public Holiday Act of 1948. Two further days off fall on May 6 and September 22 under the Act’s substitute rules, giving 18 non-working days. Traditional observances such as Obon and Setsubun sit alongside these without being official holidays. Whether you’re living in Tokyo or planning a visit, understanding these holidays helps you navigate everything from business schedules to transportation and shopping.
Most shops, restaurants and tourist spots stay open during public holidays, making them different from many Western countries. The big exception is New Year, when much of Japan closes down for several days.
Quick Reference: Japan’s Public Holidays
| Holiday | Dates for 2026 | Type | Consecutive Days Off |
| New Year’s Day (元日) | January 1st | Fixed | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Coming of Age Day (成人の日) | January 11th | Second Monday in January | 3 days (including weekend) |
| National Foundation Day (建国記念の日) | February 11th | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Emperor’s Birthday (天皇誕生日) | February 23rd | Fixed | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Spring Equinox Day (春分の日) | March 20th | Variable | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Showa Day (昭和の日) | April 29th | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week Pre Golden Week) |
| Constitution Day (憲法記念日) | May 3rd (May 6th substitute day) | Fixed | 5 days (Golden Week) |
| Greenery Day (みどりの日) | May 4th | Fixed | 5 days (Golden Week) |
| Children’s Day (こどもの日) | May 5th | Fixed | 5 days (Golden Week) |
| Marine Day (海の日) | July 20th | Third Monday of July | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Mountain Day (山の日) | August 11th | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Respect for the Aged Day (敬老の日) | September 21st | Third Monday of September | 5 days (Silver Week) |
| Citizens’ Holiday (国民の休日) | September 22nd | Silver Week (every 5-7 years) | 5 days (Silver Week) |
| Autumn Equinox Day (秋分の日) | September 23rd | Variable | 5 days (Silver Week) |
| Sports Day (スポーツの日) | October 12th | Second Monday of October | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Culture Day (文化の日) | November 3rd | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Labor Thanksgiving Day (勤労感謝の日) | November 23rd | Fixed | 3 days (including weekend) |
Looking ahead to 2027? Jump to our Japan Public Holidays 2027 key dates.
How Do Japanese Holidays Work?
Two rules in the Public Holiday Act create Japan’s long weekends. Under Article 3(2), when a holiday falls on a Sunday, the next day that is not itself a holiday becomes a day off. In 2026 that day was Wednesday May 6, not Monday May 4, because May 4 and May 5 are already holidays. Under Article 3(3), a working day sitting between two holidays also becomes a day off. That second rule produces Silver Week.
The effect is clearest during Golden Week in early May, when four holidays fall inside eight days, and during Silver Week in September 2026.
When Are Japan’s Major Holiday Periods in 2026?
When Was Golden Week 2026? (April 29 – May 6) Golden Week 2026 combined four national holidays: Showa Day on April 29, Constitution Memorial Day on May 3, Greenery Day on May 4 and Children’s Day on May 5. Because Constitution Memorial Day fell on a Sunday, a substitute day off followed on Wednesday May 6. The calendar alone gave five consecutive days from May 2 to May 6, and taking April 30 and May 1 as leave extended that to eight. Golden Week is one of Japan’s three main domestic travel seasons, alongside Obon and New Year.
When Is Obon 2026? (August 13 -16) Obon 2026 falls from Thursday August 13 to Sunday August 16. It is a Buddhist observance honouring ancestors and it is not a public holiday, so ward offices, the Legal Affairs Bureau and banks stay open on August 13 and 14. Most private companies close, and the shinkansen and expressways fill with people travelling to family homes.
Mountain Day on Tuesday August 11 sits two days before Obon begins. Taking leave on Monday August 10 and Wednesday August 12 links the two, giving nine consecutive days off from Saturday August 8 to Sunday August 16. This is the pattern most Japanese employers are working around in August 2026.
When Is Silver Week 2026? (September 19 – 23) Silver Week 2026 runs from Saturday September 19 to Wednesday September 23, giving five consecutive days off. Respect for the Aged Day, the third Monday in September, falls on the 21st, and Autumn Equinox Day falls on the 23rd. Tuesday September 22 sits between them and becomes a day off under Article 3(3) of the Public Holiday Act.
Silver Week appears at irregular intervals rather than on a fixed cycle, because Respect for the Aged Day moves between September 15 and 21 while the autumn equinox moves between September 22 and 24. The last Silver Week was in 2015, eleven years earlier. The next is projected for 2032, though the National Astronomical Observatory only confirms equinox dates one year ahead. September 19 to 23 is the window to book around for autumn travel.
When Does Japan Close for New Year? (December 29 – January 3) January 1 is the only national holiday in this period, but government offices close from December 29 to January 3 under Article 1 of the Act on Holidays of Administrative Organs. Most private businesses follow the same dates. Families gather, and shrines draw large crowds for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year.
What Are Japan’s 16 National Holidays in 2026?
Emperor’s Birthday (February 23) The current Emperor Naruhito’s birthday. The Imperial Palace opens to the public, and the Emperor greets visitors from a balcony.
Spring Equinox Day (Around March 20) Celebrates the arrival of spring. Many people visit family graves during this time, as it’s considered a good time to honor ancestors.
Showa Day (April 29) Honors the Showa period (1926-1989) and former Emperor Hirohito. Kicks off Golden Week and is a time to reflect on Japan’s modern history.
Constitution Day (May 3) Celebrates Japan’s post-war constitution that took effect in 1947. Often includes discussions about peace and democracy.
Greenery Day (May 4) Set aside for appreciating nature and the environment. Parks and gardens are busy, and it falls in the middle of Golden Week.
Children’s Day (May 5) Also called Boys’ Day, though it now celebrates all children. Families fly colorful carp streamers (koinobori) and display samurai dolls.
Marine Day (Third Monday in July) Celebrates Japan’s relationship with the ocean. Perfect timing for summer beach trips and water activities.
Mountain Day (August 11) Japan’s newest holiday, added in 2016. Encourages people to appreciate Japan’s beautiful mountains and often coincides with summer hiking season.
Respect for the Aged Day (Third Monday in September) Honors elderly people and celebrates long life. Communities often hold special events for senior citizens.
Citizens’ Holiday (September 22, 2026) This bonus holiday appears when a weekday falls between two public holidays. In 2026, it bridges Respect for the Aged Day and Autumn Equinox Day to create Silver Week. The extra day encourages autumn travel and family gatherings during this rare extended break.
Autumn Equinox Day (Around September 23) Like the spring equinox, this is a time to remember ancestors and visit graves. Many people enjoy the beautiful autumn weather.
Sports Day (Second Monday in October) Originally celebrated the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Encourages physical fitness and sports participation. Schools often hold sports festivals around this time.
Culture Day (November 3) Promotes arts, culture, and education. Museums often have special exhibitions, and the government gives cultural achievement awards.
Labor Thanksgiving Day (November 23) Similar to Labor Day in other countries, this day appreciates workers and their contributions to society.
New Year’s Day (January 1) One of the most important days in Japan. Families visit temples, eat special foods, and exchange gifts. Most businesses stay closed through January 3.
Coming of Age Day (Second Monday in January) Celebrates young people who turn 18 (the age of adulthood in Japan). Cities hold ceremonies around shrines with participants wearing traditional Japanese clothes and kimonos.
National Foundation Day (February 11) Marks the legendary founding of Japan by its first emperor in 660 BC. A day to think about Japanese history and culture.
Emperor’s Birthday (February 23) Marks the birthday of Emperor Naruhito, who ascended to the throne in 2019. The Imperial Household Agency confirms arrangements for public greetings at the Imperial Palace each year.
Are Shops Open on Japanese Holidays?
Yes. Most shops, restaurants and department stores in Tokyo stay open on public holidays, often on normal hours. Government offices, banks and post offices close. The main exception is New Year, when a large share of businesses shut from around December 29 to January 3.
Business operations change significantly during public holidays, with most offices, government buildings, banks, and post offices closing completely. This means you can’t handle official paperwork, banking, or government services on these days, so smart planning involves scheduling important meetings and transactions around holiday dates. Shopping and dining work differently than in many Western countries, as most shops, restaurants, and department stores stay open during holidays, though some may have reduced hours. Popular restaurants become busier than usual, and the main exception is New Year when many businesses close for several days.
Transportation systems adjust their schedules during holidays but generally keep running, though trains and buses often operate less frequently than on regular weekdays. During major holiday periods like Golden Week and New Year, stations and trains become extremely crowded as people travel to visit family or go on vacation, making early ticket booking essential. Tourism sees major changes during holiday periods, with popular tourist spots becoming much busier and hotels, activities, and attractions often increasing their prices. If you’re exploring Japan during holidays, expect larger crowds and higher costs, but also more festive atmospheres at many locations.
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Which Japanese Celebrations Are Not Public Holidays?
Japan celebrates many seasonal events and local festivals that aren’t official holidays but play important roles in cultural life. These celebrations often affect local communities and can influence shopping, dining, and entertainment options in different neighborhoods.
Setsubun marks the beginning of spring on February 3, when people throw roasted beans while shouting to chase away evil spirits and welcome good luck for the coming year. Cherry blossom season transforms the entire country from March through May with hanami (flower viewing) parties where people gather under blooming trees for picnics and celebrations. Parks become crowded, restaurants offer special seasonal menus, and the whole country celebrates spring’s arrival with festivals and events.
Tanabata, the Star Festival on July 7, celebrates a romantic legend about separated lovers who can meet once a year, with people writing wishes on colorful paper strips and hanging them on bamboo branches. Christmas isn’t a public holiday but has become widely celebrated with unique Japanese traditions like eating fried chicken and sharing strawberry shortcake. Department stores and shopping areas create elaborate decorations, and many couples treat it as a romantic holiday similar to Valentine’s Day in other countries.
Holiday Tips for Tokyo Residents
Living in Tokyo during holidays can be wonderful if you know what to expect. The city takes on a different rhythm during holiday periods, with many residents using the time to explore areas outside the city or visit family in other parts of Japan. Understanding how holidays affect daily routines helps you enjoy the festive atmosphere while avoiding common inconveniences.
Shopping requires different strategies during holiday periods, especially around major celebrations like New Year when many stores close for several days. Stock up on essentials beforehand as grocery stores get busy in the days leading up to holidays, and convenience stores may have limited stock despite staying open. Transportation planning becomes more important due to schedule changes and increased passenger volume, with holiday train schedules often running less frequently and major stations like Shinjuku, Tokyo, and Shibuya becoming extremely crowded during peak travel times. Smart residents avoid busy stations during rush periods, allow extra time for travel, and book tickets early for longer journeys to secure good seats and prices.
Dining options remain plentiful during most holidays, with many restaurants staying open and some creating special holiday menus to mark the occasion. Popular places often become busier than usual as people celebrate with family and friends, while international hotels frequently offer special holiday meals and buffets that provide great opportunities to experience both Japanese and international holiday traditions. Reservations become more important during holiday periods, especially at well-known restaurants or for special holiday dining experiences.
Golden Week deserves special mention for Tokyo residents. The city empties out as many Japanese families travel to their hometowns or popular destinations, which actually makes central Tokyo surprisingly pleasant for those who stay. Popular spots like Shinjuku Gyoen, Ueno Park, and Odaiba get very busy on May 3 through 5, so mornings are the best time to visit. Convenience stores remain fully stocked throughout, making them a reliable option during the week. Start planning for Golden Week 2027 early, trains and hotels book up months in advance.
What Are Japanese Holidays Like in Tokyo’s Prime Residential Areas?
Living in premium properties across Tokyo during Japanese holidays offers unique advantages that enhance the celebration of these cultural moments. High-end residential buildings often transform their common areas with elegant seasonal decorations, from traditional New Year displays featuring pine and bamboo arrangements to delicate cherry blossom themes during spring holidays. The concierge services become particularly valuable during holiday periods, helping residents navigate changing restaurant schedules, book tables at popular establishments offering special holiday menus, and arrange transportation during busy travel times.
Premium properties maintain their full range of amenities during holidays when many public facilities have reduced hours, offering residents peaceful alternatives when popular public spaces become crowded. Location advantages become even more apparent during holidays, with properties in areas like Roppongi, Azabu, and Shibuya providing easy access to nearby temples for New Year visits, convenient hanami spots during cherry blossom season, and shopping districts with elaborate holiday displays. The international community within luxury developments often creates blended holiday traditions through building social events, offering residents chances to experience holidays from multiple cultural perspectives while deepening their understanding of Japanese customs.
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Making the Most of Japanese Holidays
Japanese holidays offer great opportunities to experience local culture. Visit temples during New Year, watch families celebrate Children’s Day, or join local festivals.
For those living in luxury properties around Tokyo, many buildings organize special events during major holidays. Building management often decorates common areas and may arrange cultural activities for residents.
The key to enjoying holidays in Japan is understanding their cultural significance while planning practical matters like shopping and transportation around the changed schedules.
Conclusion
Japan’s holiday system creates a wonderful rhythm throughout the year, mixing ancient traditions with modern celebrations. Whether you’re experiencing the excitement of New Year temple visits, the beauty of Golden Week travels, or the cultural richness of traditional festivals, these holidays offer insight into what makes Japan special.
Understanding these holidays helps you plan better, whether for business, tourism, or daily life in Japan. Each celebration has its own character and traditions, making the Japanese calendar rich with opportunities to experience local culture.
Key Dates to Plan Ahead: Japan Public Holidays 2027
| Holiday | Date | Type | Consecutive Days Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day (元日) | January 1st | Fixed | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Coming of Age Day (成人の日) | January 11th | Second Monday of January | 3 days (including weekend) |
| National Foundation Day (建国記念の日) | February 11th | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Emperor’s Birthday (天皇誕生日) | February 23rd | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Spring Equinox Day (春分の日) | March 21st | Variable | 3 days (observed Monday March 22nd) |
| Showa Day (昭和の日) | April 29th | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week, pre Golden Week) |
| Constitution Day (憲法記念日) | May 3rd | Fixed | 5 days (Golden Week) |
| Greenery Day (みどりの日) | May 4th | Fixed | 5 days (Golden Week) |
| Children’s Day (こどもの日) | May 5th | Fixed | 5 days (Golden Week) |
| Marine Day (海の日) | July 19th | Third Monday of July | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Mountain Day (山の日) | August 11th | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Respect for the Aged Day (敬老の日) | September 20th | Third Monday of September | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Autumn Equinox Day (秋分の日) | September 23rd | Variable | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Sports Day (スポーツの日) | October 11th | Second Monday of October | 3 days (including weekend) |
| Culture Day (文化の日) | November 3rd | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
| Labor Thanksgiving Day (勤労感謝の日) | November 23rd | Fixed | 1 day (mid-week) |
Golden Week 2027 gives five consecutive days from Saturday May 1 to Wednesday May 5, with Showa Day on Thursday April 29 and Friday April 30 a working day. No substitute days are needed in 2027. No Silver Week forms, as the September holidays do not align to create a bridge day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public holidays does Japan have in 2026? Japan has 16 national holidays each year under the Public Holiday Act, and 2026 has 18 non-working days in total. The two extra days come from the Act itself. Article 3(2) moved Constitution Day to Wednesday May 6 after it fell on Sunday May 3. Article 3(3) turns any working day sandwiched between two holidays into a day off, which creates the September 22 holiday between Respect for the Aged Day and Autumn Equinox Day.
What is Silver Week in Japan? Silver Week is a run of consecutive September holidays that forms only when Respect for the Aged Day and Autumn Equinox Day fall two days apart, leaving a working day between them that becomes a public day off under Article 3(3) of the Public Holiday Act. The name mirrors Golden Week in spring. In 2026 it runs from September 19 to 23, giving five consecutive days off. It appears at irregular intervals rather than on a fixed cycle. The last was in 2015 and the next is projected for 2032.
When is Golden Week 2026? Golden Week 2026 runs from Wednesday, April 29 to Wednesday, May 6. The consecutive public holidays run from May 3 through May 6, with May 2 being a regular workday. Many workers take additional leave on April 30 and May 1 to extend the break further. Expect heavy domestic travel, crowded tourist spots, and higher accommodation prices throughout this period.
Is Obon a public holiday in Japan? No. Obon is not an official public holiday, though it functions like one in practice. Obon 2026 falls from Thursday August 13 to Sunday August 16, and most private companies close for those dates. Mountain Day on Tuesday August 11 sits two days before it, so leave on August 10 and 12 produces nine consecutive days off from August 8 to 16. Government offices and banks stay open on August 13 and 14, because Obon is not a public holiday.
Do all Japanese businesses close during public holidays? Most shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions stay open during public holidays, which differs from many Western countries. Department stores and shopping centers often see increased business on these days. The main exception is New Year, when many businesses close from around December 29 through January 3. Some smaller family-run shops may also close on other holidays.
Do banks and government offices close on Japanese holidays? Yes, banks, post offices, and government buildings close on all public holidays. ATMs inside bank branches may have limited hours, though convenience store ATMs typically remain available. If you need to handle banking, official paperwork, or government services, plan around holiday dates.
What happens if a holiday falls on a weekend in Japan? If a holiday falls on a Sunday, the next day that is not already a holiday becomes a substitute day off, known as furikae kyujitsu. This is usually the Monday, but not always. In 2026 Constitution Day fell on Sunday May 3 and the substitute landed on Wednesday May 6, because May 4 and May 5 are also holidays. Separately, a working day sandwiched between two holidays becomes a day off, which is how Silver Week forms.
When is the best time to visit Japan considering holidays? Spring from late March through May and autumn from September through November offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. However, Golden Week in early May and Silver Week in September 2026 bring large domestic crowds and higher prices. For cultural experiences, New Year offers unique traditions like temple visits, though many businesses close. June and December have no public holidays, making them quieter periods for tourism.
How do Japanese holidays affect transportation? Trains and buses run on holiday schedules with reduced frequency on most public holidays. During major holiday periods like Golden Week, Obon, Silver Week, and New Year, stations become extremely crowded as millions of people travel simultaneously. Shinkansen tickets can sell out weeks in advance during peak periods, so booking early is essential. Some expressways experience significant traffic congestion during these times.
Are there regional differences in how holidays are celebrated? While public holidays are observed everywhere in Japan, local customs and festivals add regional character to celebrations. Many prefectures also have their own “Prefecture People’s Day” when local government offices and schools close, though businesses remain open. Obon dates vary slightly by region, with some areas following traditional lunar calendar timing. Each part of Japan brings its own traditions to national celebrations.
What is the Japanese calendar year for 2026? The year 2026 is Reiwa 8 (令和8年) in the Japanese calendar system. You may see this notation on train tickets, official documents, and event schedules. The Reiwa era began in 2019 when Emperor Naruhito ascended to the throne.
When is Golden Week 2027? Golden Week 2027 covers Showa Day on Thursday April 29, then Constitution Day, Greenery Day and Children’s Day from Monday May 3 to Wednesday May 5. Friday April 30 is a working day. No substitute days are needed in 2027. The calendar gives five consecutive days from Saturday May 1 to Wednesday May 5, and taking April 30 as leave extends this to seven. There is no Silver Week in 2027.
Is there a Silver Week in 2027? No. Silver Week occurs at irregular intervals, only when Respect for the Aged Day and Autumn Equinox Day fall two days apart, leaving a working day between them that becomes a public day off. In 2027 the September holidays do not align this way, so there is no Silver Week. The next Silver Week after 2026 is projected for 2032, though the National Astronomical Observatory confirms equinox dates only one year ahead.
