Business Hours & Holidays
What are typical business hours in Japan?
Business hours in Japan vary by business type and region. Here is a general idea of what to expect:
Shops: 10:00am to 8:00pm every day in urban areas.
Offices: 9:00am to 5:00pm on weekdays, closed on the weekends.
In rural areas, shops often close earlier, sometimes by 6:00pm. Restaurants opening hours can vary greatly, so it is always wise to check official websites or Google Maps for up-to-date hours.
Are there stores open 24 hours?
Yes. Many convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson, as well as some chain restaurants and discount stores, operate 24 hours a day, even on national holidays.
What are train operating hours in Japan?
Most trains run from around 5:00am to midnight.
To check train times and last trains:
Use apps like Google Maps, NAVITIME, or Japan Travel by Navitime
Check station displays or railway company websites.
What time is rush hour for commuter trains?
Weekdays, around 7:30am to 9:00am in the morning and around 5:30pm to 7:00pm in the evening.
During these times commuter trains heading to/from the suburbs to the city center are extremely crowded, making it difficult to board with large luggage.
Hands-free travel 
is recommended for a smoother journey.
What are the opening hours for shrines and temples?
Generally, they are open year-round, and the grounds are often accessible for worship from morning until late afternoon.
The shrine office (where amulets and goshuin stamps are issued) will have specific opening hours.
To avoid crowds at popular shrines and temples, visiting on weekdays or early in the morning is recommended.
The year-end and New Year period is extremely busy.
What are the major holiday periods in Japan?
In addition to national holidays, Japan has three major holiday seasons when domestic travel peaks and many businesses may close or operate on reduced hours:
New Year (late December – early January): Many businesses close for several days.
Golden Week (late April – early May): A cluster of national holidays; expect crowds and fully booked transport.
Obon (mid-August): A traditional family holiday where many people travel back to their hometowns.
Tip: During the periods above some services may be reservation-only due to popular demand. Do check the relevant operator’s website for the latest information on travel during holidays. Travel outside these periods for a quieter experience or book well in advance.
List of National Holidays
| Date | Name of the Day |
|---|---|
| January 1st | New Year’s Holiday |
| The 2nd Monday of January | Coming-of-Age Day |
| February 11th | National Foundation Day |
| February 23rd | The Emperor’s Birthday |
| March 20th or March 21st* | Vernal Equinox Day |
| April 29th | Showa Day |
| May 3rd | Constitution Memorial Day |
| May 4th | Greenery Day |
| May 5th | Children’s Day |
| The 3rd Monday of July | Marine Day |
| August 11th | Mountain Day |
| The 3rd Monday of September | Respect for the Aged Day |
| September 22nd or September 23rd* | Autumnal Equinox Day |
| The 2nd Monday of October | Health and Sports Day |
| November 3rd | Culture Day |
| November 23rd | Labor Thanksgiving Day |
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