Golden Week is just around the corner here in Japan—a time when many people get a few days off, travel around the country, and enjoy some spring fun. 
But let me be honest with you.
Ever since I was a student, I’ve wondered why it’s called Golden Week when sometimes it’s really just a few scattered days off. Shouldn’t it be “Golden Days”? 
Content:
1. What Is Golden Week?
2. What About Golden Week This Year? (2025 Edition)
3. Planning a Trip? Here’s What You Need to Know
4. Payment Tips: Stay Smooth with Cashless Options
5. Enjoy Your Golden Week—Your Way
What Is Golden Week?
Golden Week is a string of national holidays in Japan that happens every year from late April to early May. It’s one of the busiest and most anticipated holiday seasons in the country—often compared to Thanksgiving or Christmas travel seasons in other parts of the world.
Here’s what it usually includes:
April 29 – Showa Day
May 3 – Constitution Memorial Day
May 4 – Greenery Day
May 5 – Children’s Day
Depending on how the dates fall in the calendar, people sometimes combine these holidays with weekends or paid leave to create a longer vacation-what we like to call a “mega-holiday.”
What About Golden Week This Year? (2025 Edition)
In 2025, the dates fall like this:
April 26 (Sat) – Weekend
April 27 (Sun) – Weekend
April 28 (Mon) – Working day
April 29 (Tue) – Showa Day (holiday)
April 30 (Wed) – Working day
May 1 (Thu) – Working day
May 2 (Fri) – Working day
May 3 (Sat) – Constitution Memorial Day
May 4 (Sun) – Greenery Day
May 5 (Mon) – Children’s Day
May 6 (Tue) – Holiday (observed, because May 4 is a Sunday)
So technically, there are four official holidays—but here’s the trick:
If you take paid leave from April 28 to May 2, you can get a 12-day break from April 26 to May 6! 
Even just taking April 30 – May 2 off gives you a solid 8-day holiday.
Planning a Trip? Here’s What You Need to Know
Golden Week is great for travel, but it comes with a few headaches too.
From experience, I can say: traffic is wild.
I once spent 3 hours in a car trying to leave Tokyo—it was not golden at all.
So here are some tips:
- Highways will be jam-packed. Leave super early… or just avoid them.
- Trains and flights get booked out quickly. Plan ahead!
- Tourist spots will be packed. If crowds aren’t your thing, maybe go off the beaten path.
- City offices, banks, and clinics may be closed or have limited hours.
Payment Tips: Stay Smooth with Cashless Options
During Golden Week, getting to an ATM can be a hassle. Long lines, limited hours, or even out-of-service signs are common.
That’s why I’ve been going mostly cashless, and it’s honestly a game changer.
Especially if you’re new to Japan, a payment card like MobalPay makes everyday life way easier. You can use it at convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants. No need to worry about carrying cash or having exact change.
One less thing to stress about during a super busy week? Yes, please
Payment Tips: Stay Smooth with Cashless Options
Whether you’re hitting the road or keeping it local, Golden Week is a great time to enjoy Japan’s spring vibes. Just make sure to plan ahead, avoid peak rush hours, and treat yourself to some well-earned relaxation.
And hey—don’t forget to charge your phone and your wallet (the digital one, too 
).
Happy Golden Week!