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Have you ever heard of the “Golden Week”? Golden Week might be one of the most anticipated things in the year by Japanese workers. Simply put, Golden Week is a week where there are series of public holidays (from the end of April to beginning of May) so clumped together that with luck, you may get more than an entire week off from work! This year, the public holidays start from April 29th (Saturday). Whether you are a student waiting to play, or a businessman needing a break, read on to find out what each day means.
Aplil 29th (Sat) – Showa no Hi (Showa Day)
It is the birthday of the Showa period emperor. It was formally known as “Tennou Tanjoubi (Emperor’s Day)” and “Midori no Hi (Green Day), but was later changed in 2007. The day is to commemorate the turmoil of the Showa period, which went through a war, the Tokyo Olympics, the depression, and the economic bubble period.
Aplil 30th (Sun)
Sunday means no work. Woot!
May 1st (Mon)
Just a regular Monday, but some companies may choose to close on this day. Alternatively, you can plan to spend your paid holiday on this day if you want an uninterrupted week of holidays.
May 2nd (Tue)
Just a regular Monday, but some companies may choose to close on this day. Alternatively, you can plan to spend your paid holiday on this day if you want an uninterrupted week of holidays.
May 3rd (Wed) – Kenpou Kinenbi (Constitution Day)
This is the day that the Japanese Constitution was put into effect back in 1947. It is a day to mark the renewed start and continuation of peaceful Japan after the defeat in WWII.
May 4th (Thu) – Midori no Hi (Green Day)
Not to be confused with the former name of Showa Day, Green Day is a relatively new public holiday established in 1989. However, it is closely associated with the Showa Emperor, who is known to have a passion for nature. Today, it is a day to appreciate nature and work for its conservation.
May 5th (Fri) – Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day)
This day is to wish for their children’s growth and health. Though today, the celebration encompasses all children, Children’s Day was traditionally a boys’ only day (as the 3rd of March is for girls). On this day, houses put up Koi-nobori to wish their boys to grow up as strong as carps, as carps are symbols of strength and virtue.
May 6th (Sat)
Another regular Saturday. Golden Week is coming to an end.. Beware of traffic as many people come back from their trips.
May 7th (Sun)
The last day of the Golden week, say goodbye to the relaxing holidays.
As you can see, if you have no work on weekends, just take two days off from work on the 1st and 2nd of May to enjoy 9 days to spend with your family, go on a trip, or visit some friends. Even if you cannot leave work for 9 full days, it will still be a good opportunity to refresh. Have fun and a safe journey!
Mofko
Japan
