Is it advisable to visit Japan during Golden Week due to higher costs and crowds?

Japan is an amazing travel destination, but timing your visit can make a huge difference in your experience. One of the most debated periods for travel is Golden Week, a national holiday stretch from April 29 to May 5. If you're wondering whether it's a good time to visit, here’s everything you need to know.

What Is Golden Week?

Golden Week is one of Japan’s busiest holiday seasons, consisting of four national holidays within a single week. Since most Japanese people get time off, it’s a peak travel season for domestic tourists. This means that transportation, accommodations, and attractions are significantly more crowded than usual.

The Downsides of Visiting During Golden Week

While Japan is always a fantastic place to visit, Golden Week presents several challenges for tourists:

• Higher Costs – Hotels, flights, and even some tourist attractions increase their prices due to high demand. Budget travel during this period is difficult.
• Crowded Transportation – Bullet trains (Shinkansen) sell out quickly, and flights to and from Japan are pricier. Highways are also jammed with road trips.
• Packed Tourist Spots – Major destinations like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka become extremely congested, making sightseeing less enjoyable.

When Is a Better Time to Visit Japan?

If you can, it’s better to avoid Golden Week and visit during these alternative periods instead:

• Late March to early April – For cherry blossoms with manageable crowds (except in famous spots like Kyoto).
• Mid-May to June – Right after Golden Week, the weather is pleasant, and crowds thin out.
• September to November – For beautiful autumn foliage and comfortable temperatures.

Should You Visit Japan During Golden Week?

If you have no choice but to visit during Golden Week, plan ahead:
✔ Book hotels and transportation early – Ideally months in advance.
✔ Avoid major cities – Lesser-known places like Tohoku or Kyushu might be less crowded.
✔ Be flexible with your itinerary – Expect delays and packed attractions.

If you have the freedom to choose your travel dates, visiting Japan outside of Golden Week is a much better experience. The country is just as beautiful—without the stress of crowds and high prices.