Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク) is a cluster of four national holidays within seven days, creating Japan’s longest vacation period.
The Four Holidays
April 29 — Showa Day (昭和の日 Shōwa no Hi) Honors Emperor Showa (Hirohito), who reigned from 1926 to 1989. It’s a day for reflecting on the Showa era — a period of dramatic transformation from pre-war to post-war Japan.
May 3 — Constitution Day (憲法記念日 Kenpō Kinenbi) Marks the 1947 Constitution of Japan coming into effect. Usually observed quietly with media retrospectives on post-war Japan.
May 4 — Greenery Day (みどりの日 Midori no Hi) A day to appreciate nature. The emperor Showa loved plants, so this day was created after his passing. Parks and gardens across Tokyo offer free or discounted entry.
May 5 — Children’s Day (こどもの日 Kodomo no Hi) The most visually distinctive holiday. Families fly koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks) representing each family member, and display samurai helmets. Eat kashiwamochi (rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves) and chimaki (sweet rice dumplings in bamboo leaves).
In Tokyo During Golden Week?
- Avoid intercity travel — Shinkansen and highways are packed. Stay local.
- Otaku spots operate normally — Akihabara, Nakano Broadway, and most arcades maintain regular hours.
- Museums may close — Especially May 1–2 (not holidays, but many institutions use them as bridge days).
- Book restaurants — Non-chain places often close for 3–7 days. Use Google Maps to check.
Vocab: ゴールデンウィーク Gōruden Wīku — Golden Week. こどもの日 Kodomo no Hi — Children’s Day (May 5). The koinobori carp streamers symbolize strength and success.