What is Golden Week in Japan? After living in Japan, you might hear “Golden Week” or come across the term “GW” on posters and other advertisements. This guide is dedicated to explaining the significance and traditions of this special time in Japan.
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What is Golden Week?
Golden Week in Japan comprises four national holidays clustered together, typically starting at the end of April and ending in early May. It is usually referred to as “Golden Week” in English or written in katakana as “ゴールデンウィーク” and abbreviated as “GW.” During this period, many people take paid leave, creating an extended holiday.
For instance, in 2024, the holidays are as follows:
- April 29th (Showa Day)
- May 3rd (Constitution Memorial Day)
- May 4th (Greenery Day)
- May 5th (Children’s Day).
By taking off the three days between April 30th (Tue) and May 2nd (Thu), which are sandwiched between the holidays, one can enjoy a 10-day holiday. The number of consecutive holidays varies each year, as do the dates and days of the week. Additionally, in Japan, if a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday will be a substitute holiday. If a weekday is sandwiched between holidays, it is designated as a “National Holiday”.
| DATE | NATIONAL HOLIDAY | JAPANESE / KANJI | JAPANESE / HIRAGANA |
|---|---|---|---|
|
April 29th, Mon |
Showa Day |
昭和の日 |
しょうわのひ |
|
May 3rd, Fri |
Constitution Memorial Day |
憲法記念日 |
けんぽうきねんび |
|
May 4th, Sat |
Greenery Day |
緑の日 |
みどりのひ |
|
May 5th, Sun |
Children's Day |
子供の日 |
こどものひ |
|
May 6th, Mon |
Substitute holiday of Sunday |
振替休日 |
ふりかえきゅうじつ |
What is the significance of each holiday?
Showa-Day
In Japan, people use a unique way of counting years called “gengō” (元号). This system originated in the 7th century by imitating the Chinese method of counting years. Throughout history, the era name has changed to represent various periods. However, nowadays, a new era name is adopted when a new emperor ascends to the throne. In 2024, the era name will be “Reiwa,” which has been in use since 2019. The “Showa” era began in 1926. In term of the Showa day, it is established to reflect on the tumultuous days of the Showa era and to contemplate the country’s future after achieving recovery.
Constitution Memorial Day
Constitution Memorial Day is designated to commemorate the enforcement of the Japanese Constitution on May 3, 1947.
Greenery Day
Originally, Greenery Day, which was celebrated on April 29th, was the “Emperor’s Birthday,” a day to celebrate the birthday of the reigning emperor. When the Emperor’s Birthday changed to the birthday of the new emperor, April 29th would often fall on a weekday. However, to avoid disrupting national life with a long consecutive holiday on weekdays, April 29th was changed to “Showa Day,” and May 4th was designated as “Greenery Day.” The name “Greenery Day” comes from Emperor Showa’s profound interest in plants and nature.
Children's Day
Children’s Day, celebrated during Golden Week, focuses on honoring children’s individualities, fostering their joy, and expressing thanks to mothers. Historically, May 5th was known as “Tango no Sekku,” a festival celebrating the healthy growth of boys. As a result, it is common to see households with young boys celebrating by displaying samurai helmets and carp streamers, symbolizing the wish for the boys’ health and prosperity. Interestingly, in Japan, there is a festival called “Hinamatsuri” on March 3rd dedicated to wishing for the well-being of girls as they grow up. Children’s Day is generally the most lively holiday among the four. If you’re interested in learning how to celebrate it, please refer to following article.
What you need to be careful around golden week?
Crowds
Since many people use this period to take paid leave and travel, popular tourist destinations, transportation hubs, and roads can be extremely crowded. It’s wise to plan your travels carefully and book accommodations and transportation in advance. Traffic jams will be high, especially at the beginning and end of Golden Week, especially the last day when people return to Tokyo. Please take this into account when planning your schedule and places to visit. The congestion prediction on expressway in 2024, please refer to below.
Price
Due to high demand, prices for hotels, transportation, and tourist activities may be higher than usual.
Closure of Business
Some businesses may close during Golden Week. Unlike New Year’s, banks are usually open on weekdays sandwiched between holidays during Golden Week. However, banks are likely to close on Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, and Children’s Day except for ATMs. Considering the increase in customers during the weekdays, it is recommended to take care of things that can be done in advance.
Reference: Cabinet Office, Government of Japan, Public Holidays in Japan, march 2024, https://www8.cao.go.jp/chosei/shukujitsu/gaiyou.html
