If you?re considering a trip to Japan during one of the country?s peak travel seasons, be aware that things can get crowded. After swaths of springtime sakura bloom across the country, domestic travel spikes during holidays like Golden Week and Obon, while New Year’s travel means wide-ranging closures and high demand for the best hotels and ryokans.

Experiencing Japan?s cultural festivities can be unforgettable, but the timing of your visit is key. With sixteen public holidays and over 200,000 local festivals held throughout the year, it?s essential to be aware of how Japanese holidays may affect your travels ? both in the planning process and once you?re in-country. 

Should You Plan Your Trip Around Japanese National Holidays"
Those who love the excitement of a country?s local traditions may relish the chance to get involved with national holidays, but if you?re less keen on big crowds and booked-out destinations, it?s good to know how your trip might be impacted by certain dates. 

Perhaps most importantly, if you plan to visit during Japan?s busiest holidays and tourist seasons (like cherry blossom season, Golden Week, and the New Year’s period), services will be in high demand and short supply ? this goes for accommodations, transport, and the best local guides. 

Popular destinations and activities will be predictably congested during busy times of year, but with some extra effort, it?s still possible to limit your time...