Japan observes 16 national holidays per year as mandated by the Holiday with Pay Act. The Labour Standards Act requires all employers to observe these holidays and provide paid time off to employees.
Japan’s holiday calendar reflects its cultural traditions, imperial events, and modern observances. Some holidays shift dates when they fall on Sundays, with the next working day becoming the substitute.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Japan observes 16 national holidays per year
- When a holiday falls on Sunday, the next working day is a substitute holiday
- Employees are entitled to paid leave on all national holidays
- Greenery Day and Marine Day are unique Japanese observances
- Employers must provide at least one rest day per week in addition to holidays
Japan Public Holidays 2027
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January | Friday |
| Coming of Age Day | 11 January | Monday |
| National Foundation Day | 11 February | Thursday |
| Emperor’s Birthday | 23 February | Tuesday |
| Vernal Equinox Day | 21 March | Sunday |
| Showa Day | 29 April | Thursday |
| Constitution Memorial Day | 3 May | Monday |
| Greenery Day | 4 May | Tuesday |
| Children’s Day | 5 May | Wednesday |
| Marine Day | 19 July | Monday |
| Mountain Day | 11 August | Wednesday |
| Respect for the Aged Day | 18 September | Sunday |
| Autumnal Equinox Day | 23 September | Friday |
| Sports Day | 11 October | Monday |
| Culture Day | 3 November | Wednesday |
| Labour Thanksgiving Day | 23 November | Tuesday |
Note: Vernal Equinox Day (21 March) falls on a Sunday in 2027 — the following Monday (22 March) is a substitute holiday. Respect for the Aged Day (18 September) falls on a Sunday — the following Monday (19 September) is a substitute.
Substitute Holidays in 2027
| Original Holiday | Falls On | Substitute Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| Vernal Equinox Day | Sunday, 21 March | Monday, 22 March |
| Respect for the Aged Day | Sunday, 18 September | Monday, 19 September |
What the Law Requires
Holiday with Pay Act
The Holiday with Pay Act governs national holidays for all employees:
- 16 paid national holidays per year
- If a holiday falls on a Sunday, the next working day is a substitute holiday
- All employees are entitled to paid leave on national holidays
- National holidays are separate from paid annual leave
Labour Standards Act
The Labour Standards Act provides the employment conditions framework:
- Employees are entitled to at least one rest day per week
- National holidays are paid days off at the employee’s ordinary rate
- If an employee works on a national holiday, they must receive at least 25% premium pay
- Employers cannot require employees to work on national holidays without agreement
Employee Rights
- Employees receive paid leave on all national holidays
- If a holiday falls on a rest day, the next working day becomes the substitute
- Employees who work on national holidays are entitled to premium pay
Unique Japanese Holidays
Golden Week
Golden Week (late April to early May) is Japan’s longest holiday period, combining:
- Showa Day (29 April)
- Constitution Memorial Day (3 May)
- Greenery Day (4 May)
- Children’s Day (5 May)
Many businesses close for the entire week. Employers should plan staffing carefully.
Obon
Obon (mid-August) is not a national holiday but many businesses close for 3-5 days. It’s a traditional Buddhist event honouring ancestors. Check your company’s policy.
Year-End and New Year
Japanese businesses typically close from 28-31 December through 3 January. While only New Year’s Day is a national holiday, most companies grant additional days.
Common Mistakes
1. Not Providing Substitute Holidays
When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the next working day must be a substitute. Some employers forget to provide this.
2. Underpaying Holiday Work Premium
Employees who work on national holidays must receive at least 25% premium pay. Paying normal wages is non-compliance.
3. Not Accounting for Golden Week
Golden Week is a major business disruption. Employers who don’t plan for it face staffing shortages.
4. Confusing National Holidays with Annual Leave
National holidays are separate from paid annual leave. An employee on annual leave during a national holiday is not charged a day of annual leave.
Record-Keeping Requirements
Maintain records of:
- Annual holiday calendar
- Dates when employees worked on national holidays
- Premium pay or substitute days off granted
- Employee consent forms for working on holidays
Keep records for at least three years as required by the Labour Standards Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many holidays does Japan have?
Japan has 16 national holidays per year. When holidays fall on Sundays, substitute holidays on the next working day apply.
What is Golden Week?
Golden Week is a cluster of four national holidays in late April to early May (Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, Children’s Day). Many businesses close for the entire period.
Are employees entitled to premium pay for working on holidays?
Yes. Employees who work on national holidays must receive at least 25% premium pay on top of their ordinary wages.
Can an employee be required to work on a national holiday?
No. Employees cannot be required to work on national holidays without their agreement. If they agree, they must receive premium pay.
Managing Japan’s holiday calendar across your organisation? Leave Balance auto-applies all 16 national holidays, manages Golden Week staffing, and keeps your compliance records audit-ready.