Golden Week in Japan is one of the most famous and busy holiday seasons of the year. It’s a time when local people travel with family, enjoy spring festivals, and visit beautiful spots across Japan. For travelers, it’s the best chance to experience Japan’s culture, colors, and celebrations.
This guide will help you understand what Golden Week 2025 is, what to expect, and how to enjoy it in comfort with Live Nippon’s private tours.
🗓️ What is Golden Week in Japan?
Golden Week is a group of national holidays that fall between late April and early May. Most people in Japan take these days off to travel and spend time with loved ones. Because of this, it becomes one of the busiest weeks of the year.
Golden Week 2025 Dates:
- April 29 (Tuesday) – Showa Day
- May 3 (Saturday) – Constitution Memorial Day
- May 4 (Sunday) – Greenery Day
- May 5 (Monday) – Children’s Day
- May 6 (Tuesday) – Substitute Holiday
You can expect heavy travel and full bookings between April 26 and May 6, 2025.
🚆 What to Expect During Golden Week
During this week, you’ll see crowded trains, busy hotels, and long lines at popular attractions. Prices also go up because of high demand. But with proper planning, you can still enjoy Japan peacefully.
Be ready for:
- Busy train stations and fully booked hotels
- Heavy road traffic near tourist spots
- Many festivals, parades, and flower events
- A fun and lively atmosphere everywhere
If you want to avoid crowds and travel comfortably, private tours and airport transfers are the best option.
🚖 Why Private Tours Are Better During Golden Week
Public transport gets very busy in Golden Week. A private car with driver helps you move freely without waiting for trains or buses.
Benefits of private tours:
- Pick-up and drop from your hotel
- Travel anytime as per your schedule
- No need to carry luggage or stand in queues
- English-speaking drivers and guides
- Clean, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
At Live Nippon, we organize private guided tours all over Japan. You can customize your trip and explore stress-free during Golden Week.
🌸 Best Places to Visit in Golden Week 2025
Here are some beautiful places you can explore:
1. Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi
Enjoy the fresh spring weather and the Fuji Shibazakura Festival with colorful pink moss flowers. A perfect one-day trip from Tokyo.
2. Hakone
Famous for hot springs, mountain views, and art museums. Ideal for families or couples who love relaxing in nature.
3. Kyoto
Rich in history and temples. Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful spots like Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, and Gion Street before they get crowded.
4. Osaka
Known for its street food, nightlife, and friendly people. Visit Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, and Kuromon Market for local flavors.
5. Tokyo
The capital city never sleeps. Explore Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa Temple, Tokyo Tower, and Ueno Park filled with spring vibes.
💡 Tips for Traveling in Golden Week
- Book early: Hotels and cars fill up fast.
- Start your day early: Visit main attractions before 10 AM.
- Avoid public holidays if possible: Travel midweek for less crowd.
- Use private transfers: Easy, safe, and flexible.
- Take local advice: Live Nippon’s guides can help plan your perfect route.
🚗 Travel Japan Comfortably with Live Nippon
Live Nippon provides:
- Private Japan tours with English-speaking guides
- Airport transfers (Narita, Haneda, Kansai)
- City sightseeing with professional drivers
- Custom itineraries for solo, family, or business trips
We make sure your Golden Week in Japan is smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
🎌 Final Thoughts
Golden Week is not just a holiday — it’s a festival full of life and culture. With a little planning and the right travel partner, you can enjoy Japan at its best.
Let Live Nippon take care of your journey while you enjoy the beauty of Japan in full bloom.