Japan: Golden Week (late April–early May) — High Disruption.
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Golden Week (late April–early May) — High Disruption. A cluster of national holidays creates Japan's biggest domestic travel period — trains and hotels book out well in advance and prices surge nationwide. New Year (Jan 1-3) also sees many shops and restaurants close.
Japan: Golden Week (late April–early May) — High Disruption. A cluster of national holidays creates Japan's biggest domestic travel period — trains and hotels book out well in advance and prices surge nationwide. New Year (Jan 1-3) also sees many shops and restaurants close.
Expect real disruption — many businesses closed, transport and hotels booked out well in advance, and significant price surges.
Not exact dates — many of these holidays (Ramadan, Lunar New Year, Easter-linked observances) shift every year on lunar or moveable calendars. Search the specific year of your trip to confirm exact dates.
Not necessarily — major tourist attractions and international hotels usually stay open even during high-disruption seasons, and some (like Carnival or Songkran) are genuinely worth experiencing if you plan around them. Just book well ahead and expect higher prices.