Planning a trip to Japan during Golden Week 2026? This vibrant holiday season, spanning from late April to early May, is one of the most anticipated times of the year in Japan.

Known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural festivities, Golden Week is a perfect opportunity for travellers to experience the essence of Japanese traditions and celebrations.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Golden Week Japan 2026 — including the dates, the holidays, popular destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Hokkaido, as well as travel tips for first-time visitors.

Golden Week is a series of national holidays in Japan that fall within a week. Also called Gōruden Wīku or Ōgon Shūkan, it is one of Japan’s busiest travel periods alongside New Year and Obon. Many Japanese take this opportunity to travel domestically or internationally, and businesses often close for the week.

The official Golden Week Japan 2026 dates are expected to be from Wednesday, April 29 to Tuesday, May 5. The holidays during Golden Week include:

Golden Week is a time when many people travel, enjoy local festivities, and soak in Japan’s cultural and natural beauty.

If you prefer fewer crowds, before or after Golden Week is ideal. During the week itself, popular spots are crowded, transportation is packed, and prices rise. However, if you're seeking lively cultural events, attending during Golden Week is rewarding—as long as you're prepared for the crowds and higher costs.

If you're planning a sightseeing-heavy itinerary with visits to temples, museums, or nature spots, going after Golden Week might be slightly better than before. Not only will the crowds have thinned out, but the weather in early to mid-May is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, some seasonal attractions, like flower fields and late cherry blossoms in northern regions, are still in bloom, offering a beautiful and quieter experience compared to the bustling holiday period.

First and foremost, prepare for crowds! Golden Week is one of the busiest travel periods in Japan, with locals and international tourists flocking to popular destinations across the country.

Tourist attractions, restaurants, public transportation, and accommodations will be significantly more crowded than usual. However, don't let this deter you—the lively atmosphere and energy of the celebrations make the experience worthwhile.

Traveloka Tip: Book your favorite attraction tickets well in advance through Traveloka to ensure you can visit all the top spots without worries during Japan's Golden Week!

Transportation and accommodation prices often surge during this period, and tickets can sell out quickly. Some businesses may close for the entire week as employees take their annual vacation.

Yes, traveling to Japan during Golden Week can be significantly more expensive than at other times of the year. Flights, hotels, and transportation often see a sharp increase in prices due to the high demand from both domestic and international travelers. Popular attractions may also raise their rates, and availability becomes limited quickly, making it harder to secure bookings unless planned well in advance. This surge in costs is especially noticeable in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, where tourism peaks during this period.

To manage expenses effectively, it's crucial to plan ahead. Booking accommodations, flights, and train tickets 3–6 months in advance can help you secure better deals and guarantee availability. In 2026, note that the Japan Rail Pass requires seat reservations during Golden Week, as non-reserved seats won’t be offered—so plan accordingly. You can also save by traveling during off-peak hours or exploring lesser-known regions, which tend to be less crowded and more budget-friendly during the holiday rush.

Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, Golden Week offers plenty of destinations:

Tokyo Golden Week

Kyoto During Golden Week

Osaka Golden Week

Fukuoka Golden Week

Hokkaido During Golden Week

Okinawa Golden Week

Traveling during Golden Week 2026 can be exciting but requires planning. Here’s how to make the most of your trip:

During Golden Week, visitors can enjoy:

Due to the high demand, secure your accommodations, transportation, and attraction tickets as early as possible—ideally 3-6 months before your trip.

Traveloka Tip: Japan Rail Pass reservations can be made 30 days in advance. Important note for 2026: Non-reserved seats will NOT be available during Golden Week. You must purchase reserved seat tickets on either Ordinary or Green Car.

With numerous festivals, parades, and events taking place throughout Japan during Golden Week, planning is essential. Organize your schedule ahead of time to ensure you don't miss out on must-see attractions and experiences.

Try to avoid peak rush hours when moving between destinations. Consider early morning or late evening travel times when possible, and allow extra time for all transportation.

For a comfortable Golden Week experience, remember to pack:

During Golden Week, Japan’s spring temperatures generally range between 13°C to 23°C (55°F to 73°F) depending on the region, with cooler mornings and evenings. Travel light since you'll be on the move frequently and wouldn't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage. Pack clothing that you can mix and match, and avoid revealing or provocative attire as a way of showing respect for Japanese culture.

Travel light since you'll be on the move frequently and wouldn't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage. Pack clothing that you can mix and match, and avoid revealing or provocative attire as a way of showing respect for Japanese culture.

Many of Japan's famous shrines and temples hold special events and ceremonies during Golden Week, providing a perfect opportunity to witness traditional Japanese culture in action.

Various traditional festivities occur throughout Golden Week in Japan:

While cherry blossoms will be past their peak in most of Japan, you can still catch late blooms in the northern Tohoku region during Golden Week.

Golden Week can be hectic, so take time to unwind at a traditional Japanese hot spring. Kinosaki Onsen is particularly famous for its seven public bath houses and traditional atmosphere.

Traveloka Tip: After a busy day of sightseeing, an onsen visit is the perfect way to rejuvenate and experience an essential aspect of Japanese culture.

For a more lighthearted activity, spend the day at popular theme parks:

Wondering golden week where to go to make the most of your trip? Japan offers a variety of regional experiences during this festive period, from city celebrations to coastal escapes. Here are some of the top destinations to consider for your Golden Week holiday:

Make the most of your stay by booking a centrally located hotel near Shinjuku or Ueno for easy access to events and transit hubs.

Considering staying in a central location such as Gion or near Kyoto Station offers convenient access to popular sites.

Booking a hotel in central Sapporo or near major transit lines helps maximize your sightseeing opportunities.

Look for a hotel near the beach or in central Naha to enjoy both relaxation and cultural experiences.

Transportation will be extremely busy during this period. Here are some tips:

Plan your trip to Japan for Golden Week with Traveloka's range of flight options. We offer competitive airfares from multiple Southeast Asian cities to Tokyo and other major Japanese destinations. Whether you're traveling from Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, or other nearby countries, you'll find convenient schedules and various price points to suit your budget. Remember that flights tend to fill quickly for the Golden Week period, so we recommend booking several months in advance to secure the best rates and availability. Check Traveloka regularly for special promotions and deals that can make your Japanese adventure even more affordable!

Golden Week is about more than just sightseeing—it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Whether you're attending traditional ceremonies, experiencing local festivals, enjoying seasonal cuisine, or simply observing daily life during this special time, embrace the unique energy of this remarkable holiday period.

Despite the crowds, Golden Week offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese society and traditions that you won't experience at any other time of year.

In addition to Golden Week, Japan also celebrates Silver Week, a shorter holiday period in September. Silver Week comprises two national holidays: Respect for the Aged Day (third Monday of September) and Autumnal Equinox Day (around September 22 or 23). When these holidays align with a single working day in between, that day becomes a public holiday as well, creating an extended break. However, this alignment doesn't happen every year; the next full Silver Week is expected in 2026. During Silver Week, many Japanese people take the opportunity to travel, enjoy early autumn festivals, or spend time with family, making it a vibrant yet less crowded alternative to Golden Week. ​

To prepare for a holiday in Japan comfortably and easily, book hotel, travel activities and plane tickets on Traveloka. You can also order various other interesting activities in various countries including Japan easily. Come on, plan your holiday with Traveloka. Enjoy your trip in 2026!

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