How Public Holidays Work in Japan
Public holidays in Japan are regulated by the National Holiday Law. There are 16 official national holidays, with a substitute day system ensuring holidays falling on Sundays are observed on the following Monday.
2025 Holiday Calendar
Public holidays are observed uniformly nationwide. However, Obon (mid-August) is not an official holiday but is widely observed as a traditional vacation period when companies typically close.
Japan Holidays
How Public Holidays Work in Japan
Public holidays in Japan are regulated by the National Holiday Law. There are 16 official national holidays, with a substitute day system ensuring holidays falling on Sundays are observed on the following Monday.
16 holidays officially recognized nationwide, including historical, seasonal, and cultural observances. Major holiday periods include New Year (Shōgatsu), Golden Week, and Obon.
Public holidays are observed uniformly nationwide. However, Obon (mid-August) is not an official holiday but is widely observed as a traditional vacation period when companies typically close.
If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday automatically becomes a substitute holiday (furikae kyūjitsu). This ensures employees do not lose holiday entitlements.
Japan
Golden Week
A period from April 29 to May 5 containing multiple national holidays (Showa Day, Constitution Day, Greenery Day, Children's Day). Often the longest vacation period for Japanese workers.
New Year (Shōgatsu)
January 1-3. The most important holiday period in Japan. While only January 1 is an official holiday, most businesses close for the first three days of the year.
Obon
Mid-August (typically August 13-16). Not an official public holiday but a traditional Buddhist festival when people return to ancestral homes. Most companies grant leave during this period.
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Impact on Payroll & Leave
Public holidays in Japan require careful payroll management, particularly regarding the substitute holiday system and mandatory leave requirements introduced in 2019.
Learn more about JapanPremium pay for holiday work typically follows employment contract terms, often 135% of regular wages.
Weekly rest day (1 per week or 4 per 4 weeks) must be provided. No statutory daily rest period between shifts.
Mandatory 5-day leave requirement means employers must track and ensure compliance to avoid penalties.
Public holidays are uniform nationwide. Obon observance varies by region and company, typically August 13-16.
Are employees compensated if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
If a public holiday falls on Sunday, the following Monday automatically becomes a substitute holiday (furikae kyūjitsu). If it falls on Saturday, there is no automatic substitute unless specified by company policy.
What is the difference between paid leave and Obon holidays?
Paid annual leave is a statutory entitlement. Obon is not an official public holiday, but most companies grant leave during this traditional period (mid-August), often requiring employees to use their paid leave or providing special summer leave.
Can employers force employees to take leave?
Since the 2019 reform, employers must ensure employees take at least 5 days of annual leave. If an employee has not requested sufficient leave, the employer can designate when the remaining days must be taken.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official government sources and legal counsel for compliance matters.