Golden Week in Tokyo
Shining and shimmering, Golden Week is a much-coveted Japanese holiday.
Shining and shimmering, Golden Week is a much-coveted Japanese holiday. This year will be its best version yet. Due to Crown Prince Naruhito’s ascension falling within the same time frame, Japan will see an unprecedented 10-day long Golden Week. Read on to learn more about Golden Week, and why it truly is the best time to visit Tokyo.
What is Golden Week?
Golden Week is a series of four national holidays that take place within one week at the end of April to the beginning of May each year. The holidays are as follows:
- Showa no hi/Showa Day – April 29th is the birthday of the late Emperor Showa
- Kenpo Kinenbi/Constitution Day – May 3rd is celebrated to honor the ratification of the Japanese constitution in 1947
- Midori no hi/Green Day – May 4th is a day to appreciate the natural environment
- Kodomo no hi/Children’s Day – May 5th a festival to celebrate young men
With the addition of the Crowne Prince’s ascension, April 30th – May 2nd will also be a public holiday, making April 26th – May 6th 2019, the longest Golden Week in history.
Why Visit Tokyo During Golden Week?
While Golden Week doesn’t necessarily impact a foreign traveler’s plans, due to its 10-day length this year, one can expect many Japanese residents to be vacationing outside of the country. Which means Tokyo, one of the world’s most densely population metropolises, will become much more accessible. Vacationers can also experience the Japanese Spring season during this time which will feature a much milder climate, with long sunny days followed by cool breezes in the evening time.
Things to Do in Tokyo
- Cultural Festivals – Immerse yourself in one of the many Spring related festivals occurring during this time.
- Explore the Outdoors – Despite the numerous skyscrapers that dot Tokyo’s skyline, the city itself is still home to many beautiful parks. Walking distance from our hotel is Hinokicho Park and Shiba Park, both of which will have beautiful foliage during April.
- Savor delicious food – Tokyo is known as one of the top foodie capitals in the world, so take any opportunity to go and explore, fork and chopsticks in hand. Our hotel alone has 12 very individual restaurants and bars, each with their own celebrated cuisine. On the 36th floor resides Pierre Gagnaire, our very own two Michelin starred restaurant.
