Japan Public Holidays 2025: Your Complete Guide to Days Off & Traditions

Need a quick break, or some time to experience local Japanese customs and traditions? You’re in luck! Japan observes several national holidays throughout the year, each with historical, cultural, or religious significance. Understanding these holidays can help residents plan vacations, avoid peak travel times, and learn how to best appreciate their time in Japan. Today, we present a guide to Japan’s public holidays in 2025, their significance, and how they are celebrated.

List of Public Holidays in Japan 2025

Here is the official list of public holidays in Japan for 2025:

Each of these holidays holds historical and cultural importance, with many tied to seasonal changes or significant events in Japanese history.

Major Public Holidays and Their Significance

New Year’s Day (January 1)

New Year’s Day, also known as Ganjitsu (元日), with the larger New Year holidays known as Shōgatsu (正月*)*, is the most significant holiday in Japan. Families gather, visit shrines, and eat traditional foods like osechi ryōri (おせち料理). Many businesses close from January 1 to 3 in order to allow the workers time for celebrations and rest. People also send New Year’s greeting cards (nengajō) and give monetary gifts (otoshidama / お年玉) to children. Temples and shrines hold bell-ringing ceremonies at midnight, and many people partake in the first shrine visit of the year, known as hatsumōde. (初詣)

Coming of Age Day (January 13)

This holiday honors young people turning 20, the traditional legal age of adulthood in Japan. Ceremonies are held across the country, with young adults wearing traditional kimonos and suits while attending official events. Families often celebrate with special meals and photoshoots. The local government organizes these ceremonies, and many participants visit shrines after the event to pray for good fortune in adulthood.

National Foundation Day (February 11)

This day commemorates the founding of Japan and the ascension of the first emperor, Emperor Jimmu. It is a day of national pride, though modern celebrations are typically relatively subdued. Some communities hold parades or similar ceremonies to mark the occasion.

Emperor’s Birthday (February 23)

The birthday of the current regent of Japan, Emperor Naruhito, is a public holiday, and one of the few days where the Imperial Palace opens its gates for visitors to offer well wishes. The Emperor and his family make public appearances, and people gather to celebrate with flags and speeches.

Golden Week Holidays (April 29 – May 5)

Golden Week the name given to a cluster of holidays, making it one of the busiest travel periods in Japan, as many take advantage of all the holidays so close together.

• Shōwa Day (April 29) a day to reflect on the Shōwa era, and people reflect on Japan’s history during this period, from the lows of the Second World War to the highest of the Japanese economic miracle.
• Constitution Memorial Day (May 3) marks the enactment of the post-war constitution, with citizens encouraged to participate in political discussions and reflections on democracy.
• Greenery Day (May 4) celebrates nature and the environment. People often engage in outdoor activities such as visiting parks or botanical gardens.
• Children’s Day (May 5) is a day to wish for children’s happiness, symbolized by flying koinobori /鯉のぼり (carp streamers). Families arrange samurai dolls and armor displays, and children enjoy special treats like kashiwa mochi /柏餅 (sweet rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves).

Marine Day (July 21)

Marine Day (Umi no Hi) is dedicated to appreciating Japan’s maritime heritage and is often celebrated with beach events, marine sports, and visits to aquariums. Some regions hold maritime festivals that feature fireworks, boat races, and seafood feasts. It is a time to reflect on the importance of the ocean in the life and economy of Japan.

Mountain Day (August 11)

Established to honor Japan’s mountainous landscape, Mountain Day encourages people to connect with nature through hiking and outdoor activities. Some communities organize guided mountain treks and environmental awareness programs.

Respect for the Aged Day (September 15)

This holiday recognizes the contributions of Japan’s elderly population. Many people visit their grandparents or volunteer at elder-care facilities. TV programs often feature centenarians who share their life stories.

Autumnal Equinox Day (September 23)

Marking the changing of the seasons, this day is associated with visiting family graves and paying respect to ancestors. Many people clean gravesites and offer flowers and food, an important part of Buddhist traditions.

Sports Day (October 13)

Originally established to commemorate the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Sports Day promotes health and fitness. Many schools and organizations hold sports festivals, where families participate in relay races, tug-of-war, and other athletic competitions. These festivals, called undōkai (運動会), are an important part of Japanese school culture, often involving both students and parents in a day of friendly athletic rivalry and teamwork exercises.

Culture Day (November 3)

Culture Day celebrates Japan’s artistic and academic achievements, and is a day when many museums and institutions hold exhibitions, and the Emperor awards cultural distinctions. Schools and communities organize cultural festivals showcasing music, dance, and traditional crafts. Some regions host parades, and many people take advantage of the holiday to visit cultural landmarks and participate in workshops dedicated to traditional arts such as calligraphy and tea ceremonies.

Labor Thanksgiving Day (November 23)

Though International Labor Day on May 1 is marked by trade unions and many workers in Japan, this is the official day to honor labor and productivity. This holiday evolved from ancient harvest festivals and was originally similar in spirit to Thanksgiving in the U.S. Children often write thank-you notes to workers —with public employees such as police officers, firefighters, and hospital staff being amongst the most popular recipients— and labor unions hold gatherings to appreciate their members’ contributions.

Observing Public Holidays in Japan

Public holidays in Japan are generally non-working days for schools, government offices, and most businesses. Students and employees can expect a day off, although certain industries, such as retail, restaurants, and transportation, often continue to operate. During major holidays like Golden Week and New Year’s, many companies extend holiday periods, leading to nationwide travel congestion.

While public holidays are official non-working days, some businesses remain open, particularly in the retail and hospitality industries. However, banks, government offices, and corporate offices typically close. Transportation hubs, such as airports and train stations, experience significant congestion during major holidays like Golden Week and New Year’s.

Reflecting on Japan’s Public Holidays

Japan’s public holidays in 2025 offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s traditions, history, and seasonal customs. Whether enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Golden Week or experiencing the solemnity of equinox-related holidays, understanding these celebrations helps foreign residents better appreciate Japanese culture. Planning ahead ensures that one can fully participate while avoiding common travel disruptions. As Japan continues to embrace both modern and historical influences, its public holidays remain an essential aspect of life in the country.