what is Japan's Golden Week?
Apr 25, 2025 3:16 am
Konnichiwa from the Japan Switch Team!
This is actually a pretty big thing in Japan that you never hear about outside of the country itself!
Golden Week is basically Japan’s version of a spring holiday rush - kind of like if Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Fourth of July all got crammed into the same week. It happens from late April to early May and since it’s one of the longest holiday stretches in Japan, everyone’s trying to travel, relax, or visit family at the same time. A lot of people take the whole week off, so big cities can feel a little quieter while tourist spots (like Kyoto or Okinawa) get swamped.
Without further ado, let's dive in!
Ultimate Guide to Golden Week
If this is your first year in Tokyo, then this May will be your first Golden Week! It’s a well-deserved week off if you've been all-go since January! Our team has thrown together a rock-solid list of places to visit during your time off whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, budget-friendly options, or to spend a little time off the beaten path.
Ultimate Guide to Japanese Tea Ceremony
The Japanese tea ceremony is steeped in tradition and absolutely worth doing at least once. But like going to the opera, it helps to know what’s happening ahead of time. Luckily, you can join a ceremony for as little as 2,200 yen, and many places offer translations so you’re not totally lost. Hit the link to learn the flow of the ceremony, who’s involved, and where to join in!
Ultimate Guide to Day Trips from Tokyo
Your Tokyo to-do list is probably already overflowing, but don’t forget about the gems just outside the city. Maybe you want to stay on budget and hang around spots like Shibuya, or maybe you’re ready to splurge a little in Odaiba. We’ve rounded up some of our staff’s favorite picks for a quick escape - without going too far!
Side note: If you're serious about visiting or living in Japan, check out Japan Switch's affordable online and offline Japanese lessons and make sure you're ready to make the most of your time here!
For more information or other updates and tips on life in Japan, be sure to check out our website here.
Your Friends,
The Japan Switch Team
