2021 Holidays - Japan

Japan Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. General Observance

- Public holidays in Japan are established by the Public Holiday Law and published in the official holiday calendar.

- These holidays include national celebrations (e.g., National Foundation Day, Emperor’s Birthday) and seasonal observances (e.g., Vernal Equinox Day, Autumnal Equinox Day).

2. When a Public Holiday Falls on a Sunday

- If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a public holiday, known as Holiday Transfer Day (振替休日, Furikae Kyūjitsu).

- This ensures that employees receive a weekday off in lieu of the holiday falling on a Sunday.

3. When a Public Holiday Falls on a Saturday

- If a public holiday falls on a Saturday, it is observed on that day.

- There is no automatic substitution to another weekday.

4. Consecutive Holidays (Golden Week & Silver Week)

- Japan has periods of consecutive public holidays, such as Golden Week (April 29 to early May) and Silver Week (September, when holidays align).

- These consecutive holidays create extended breaks for workers, but they are not "bridge holidays" in the formal sense.

5. Bridge Holidays (Long Weekends)

- If a single non-holiday day falls between two public holidays, it automatically becomes a public holiday under the Holiday Transfer Law.

- This creates long weekends or extended breaks without requiring additional employer action.

6. Additional Notes

- Employers must adhere to the official holiday calendar published by the Japanese government.

- Employees working on a public holiday are entitled to compensatory leave or premium pay as prescribed by Japanese labor law.

- For the most up-to-date information, always consult the latest official holiday calendar and any government announcements.