What is Golden Week in Japan?
Golden Week is a cluster of four national holidays spanning late April to early May, making it one of Japan’s busiest and most exciting travel periods. The holidays include Shōwa Day (April 29), Constitution Memorial Day (May 3), Greenery Day (May 4), and Children’s Day (May 5). During Golden Week, locals and tourists alike flock to Japanese tourist destinations for festivals, sightseeing, and seasonal experiences.
If you’re planning your first Golden Week trip, this Japan travel guide will highlight the top must-visit cities and cultural events to ensure you can plan your trip around the many wonderful festivals happening across the country!
Top Golden Week Cities & Destinations for First-Time Visitors
Japan is a vast country with a rich diversity of cities and regions to explore. To help you make the most of your visit, this guide groups key destinations into three main clusters—Northern, Central, and Southern Japan—allowing you to focus your itinerary within a particular region and maximise your travel experience. Each cluster offers unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making it easier to plan a well-rounded trip tailored to your interests.
Northern Japan
Hokkaido Prefecture
- Sapporo: Hokkaido’s capital is a top Golden Week city for late cherry blossom viewing and other outdoor adventures. Parks and gardens are in full bloom, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
Central Japan
Tokyo Prefecture
- Tokyo: The capital is a Golden Week hub, with iconic attractions like the Kanda Matsuri festival (held in odd years), bustling parks, and world-famous districts such as Shibuya and Asakusa. While many locals leave the city, Tokyo becomes surprisingly spacious, making it ideal for sightseeing, shopping, and local experiences in Japan.
Kanagawa Prefecture
- Yokohama: Just south of Tokyo, Yokohama offers a vibrant Chinatown, waterfront parks, and family-friendly attractions. It’s a great choice for those seeking a mix of urban excitement and relaxed seaside charm.
- Hakone: Escape the city and unwind in Hakone’s hot springs, art museums, and the scenic Lake Ashi. Golden Week is perfect for enjoying Hakone Gora Park’s Rose Festival and outdoor activities.
Kyoto Prefecture
- Kyoto: Known for its temples, shrines, and traditional festivals, Kyoto’s Aoi Matsuri is a Golden Week highlight with Heian-period processions and stunning costumes.
Osaka Prefecture
- Osaka: Famous for street food, Osaka Castle, and Universal Studios Japan, the city is lively during Golden Week, offering a blend of culture and entertainment.
Nara Prefecture
- Nara: Visit Nara Deer Park and ancient temples. Greenery Day is especially suited for enjoying Nara’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Hyogo Prefecture
- Kobe: Renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and Kobe beef, the city is a culinary and cultural delight during Golden Week.
Southern Japan
Fukuoka Prefecture
- Fukuoka: Don’t miss the Hakata Dontaku Festival, one of Japan’s largest parades with dancers, floats, and vibrant street performances. Check out other activities here.
Hiroshima Prefecture
- Hiroshima: The Hiroshima Flower Festival fills the city with floral displays, parades, and music, celebrating peace and renewal. Check out other activities here.
Okinawa Prefecture
- Naha: For a tropical twist, Okinawa’s capital offers beaches, unique Ryukyu culture, and local festivals. It’s a popular Japanese tourist spot for those seeking sun and relaxation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Golden Week in Japan and why is it significant for travellers?
Golden Week in Japan is a series of four national holidays from late April to early May, making it one of the busiest and most festive times to visit. During Golden Week, both locals and tourists travel extensively, and cities across Japan host unique festivals and cultural events, offering visitors a chance to experience Japanese traditions and seasonal celebrations firsthand.
Q: When does Golden Week take place in Japan?
Golden Week typically occurs from April 29 to May 5 each year, encompassing Shōwa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, and Children’s Day. These consecutive holidays create an extended break, making it a peak travel season in Japan.
Q: What are the best cities to visit in Japan during Golden Week?
Top Golden Week destinations include Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Sapporo, Yokohama, Hakone, Nara, Kobe, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Naha. Each city offers unique festivals, sightseeing opportunities, and local experiences perfect for first-time visitors.
Q: How should I plan my itinerary for Golden Week in Japan?
To maximise your Golden Week travel, group your destinations by region—Central (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Hakone, Yokohama), Northern (Sapporo, Hokkaido), and Southern Japan (Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Naha). This approach allows you to experience more attractions efficiently and tailor your Japan itinerary for Golden Week to your interests.
Q: Is Golden Week a good time for travel in Japan?
Golden Week is popular for travel in Japan due to the abundance of festivals, outdoor activities, and special events. However, travellers should plan ahead to secure accommodations and manage crowded attractions.
Q: Can I book travel in Japan with cryptocurrency?
Platforms like Travala allow you to book hotels, flights, and activities in Japan using over 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and stablecoins like USDT and USDC. This makes it convenient for international travellers and crypto enthusiasts to secure their Golden Week travel arrangements.