Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Public Holidays in Japan 2025 – Full List & Descriptions

Curious about Japan’s 2025 public holidays and how to make the most of them? Whether you're planning a cherry blossom getaway, syncing workdays with national observances, or looking to experience Japan's cultural heartbeat through its holiday seasons, this holiday calendar will guide your journey.

Japan’s national holidays aren’t just breaks in the calendar — they’re windows into centuries-old traditions, seasonal festivals, and deep-rooted values. From the serenity of Coming of Age Day to the bustling travel surge during Golden Week, knowing the official holiday schedule helps travelers avoid the rush, locals optimize their vacations, and businesses stay ahead of key downtime.

If you’ve searched for “Japan holiday list 2025,” “Japanese national holidays and festivals,” or “best time to travel to Japan in 2025,” you’ve landed on the right page. Whether you're after a peaceful temple retreat or an energetic matsuri (festival) experience, this Japan 2025 holiday overview is your essential planning companion.

List of Public Holidays in Japan – 2025

Date Day Holiday Name Type
January 1 Wednesday New Year’s Day National Holiday
January 13 Monday Coming of Age Day National Holiday
February 11 Tuesday National Foundation Day National Holiday
March 20 Thursday Vernal Equinox Day National Holiday
April 29 Tuesday Showa Day National Holiday
May 3 Saturday Constitution Memorial Day National Holiday
May 4 Sunday Greenery Day National Holiday
May 5 Monday Children’s Day National Holiday
July 21 Monday Marine Day National Holiday
August 11 Monday Mountain Day National Holiday
September 15 Monday Respect for the Aged Day National Holiday
September 23 Tuesday Autumnal Equinox Day National Holiday
October 13 Monday Health and Sports Day National Holiday
November 3 Monday Culture Day National Holiday
November 23 Sunday Labor Thanksgiving Day National Holiday
December 23 Tuesday Emperor’s Birthday National Holiday

Major Holidays in Japan and Their Significance

New Year’s Day (January 1): A major cultural holiday, New Year in Japan is celebrated with family gatherings, traditional foods like “osechi ryori,” and shrine visits known as “hatsumode.” It marks fresh beginnings and is often accompanied by long vacations.

Golden Week (April 29 – May 5): A collection of four national holidays, Golden Week is one of Japan's busiest travel seasons. Families often take vacations and popular destinations experience high footfall from both locals and tourists.

Marine Day (July 21): Celebrating Japan’s close relationship with the ocean, Marine Day encourages appreciation for maritime resources. It’s observed with beach events and educational activities.

Respect for the Aged Day (September 15): This day honors the elderly population of Japan, reflecting the country’s values of respect and gratitude. Communities organize events for seniors and highlight their contributions to society.

Emperor’s Birthday (December 23): A ceremonial holiday that celebrates the reigning emperor’s birthday. The public is allowed into the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace for a special address, making it a unique cultural experience.

Plan Ahead with Japan’s Public Holiday Calendar 2025

Using this detailed overview of the Japan holiday calendar 2025, you can align your travel, work, and event planning with the country’s official schedule. Whether you're avoiding peak travel during bank holidays in Japan 2025 or looking to immerse yourself in cultural festivities, knowing the national holidays ensures smooth and rewarding experiences. Don’t forget to plan your trip around Japan holidays for the best memories.

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