Japan’s Cabinet Office has officially released the schedule of public holidays for the year 2026, featuring the rare occurrence of Silver Week, a consecutive five-day holiday period in September.
Typically, Japan observes 16 national holidays annually. However, in 2026, employees will benefit from an additional day off inserted between Respect for the Aged Day and Autumnal Equinox Day. This “bonus” holiday creates an extended break known as Silver Week, allowing workers to enjoy five consecutive days off from 21 to 25 September.
Silver Week is a relatively rare event, occurring only when a working day falls between two public holidays in September. Due to its infrequency, it is sometimes referred to as “Platinum Week.” This extended holiday period offers a counterpart to the more familiar Golden Week break in the spring.
Below is the complete list of Japan’s public holidays for 2026:
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New Year’s Day – 1 January (Thursday)
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Coming of Age Day – 12 January (Monday)
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National Foundation Day – 11 February (Wednesday)
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Emperor’s Birthday – 23 February (Monday)
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Vernal Equinox Day – 20 March (Friday)
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Shōwa Day – 29 April (Wednesday)
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Constitution Memorial Day – 3 May (Sunday)
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Greenery Day – 4 May (Monday)
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Children’s Day – 5 May (Tuesday)
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Substitute Holiday for Constitution Memorial Day – 6 May (Wednesday)
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Marine Day – 20 July (Monday)
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Mountain Day – 11 August (Tuesday)
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Respect for the Aged Day – 21 September (Monday)
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Extra Holiday for Silver Week – 22 September (Tuesday)
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Autumnal Equinox Day – 23 September (Wednesday)
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Sports Day – 12 October (Monday)
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Culture Day – 3 November (Tuesday)
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Labour Thanksgiving Day – 23 November (Monday)
This announcement allows businesses and individuals to plan ahead for next year’s holiday schedule, especially with the extended break in September offering a unique opportunity for rest, travel, or family time.
