Do clinics close for Obon?

Obon, around 13–15 August, is a customary observance rather than a legal holiday, so whether a clinic closes is entirely its own decision and practice varies by region. Many list 13–15 August as closed.

How should I prepare for Golden Week or Obon?

Refill regular medication before the break, deal with anything non-urgent before the holiday starts, note the local duty-doctor arrangements, and remember the four-day prescription expiry — a long weekend can consume it entirely.

Golden Week and Obon: when Japan's clinics close

New Year is the biggest shutdown, but two other periods catch people out: Golden Week at the start of May, and Obon in mid-August.

Golden Week follows the public holidays

Golden Week is a cluster of public holidays between 29 April and 5 May. Clinics close on the holidays themselves and typically work the weekdays in between. Nationwide, 10,885 facilities open on public holidays, so the holiday portions look like any other public holiday.

Obon is not a public holiday at all

Obon, around 13–15 August, is a customary observance rather than a legal holiday. Whether a clinic closes is entirely its own decision, and practice varies by region. Many list 13–15 August as closed; others work normally.

Preparing is the same as for New Year

Refill regular medication before the break.
Deal with anything non-urgent before the holiday starts.
Note the local duty-doctor arrangements.
Remember the four-day prescription expiry — a long weekend can consume it entirely.

Find facilities near you

Browse by prefecture and filter for public holiday or Sunday opening.

Frequently asked questions

Do clinics in Japan close during Golden Week?: Golden Week is a cluster of public holidays between 29 April and 5 May. Clinics close on the holidays themselves and typically work the weekdays in between. Nationwide, 10,885 facilities open on a public holiday.
Do clinics close for Obon?: Obon, around 13–15 August, is a customary observance rather than a legal holiday, so whether a clinic closes is entirely its own decision and practice varies by region. Many list 13–15 August as closed.
How should I prepare for Golden Week or Obon?: Refill regular medication before the break, deal with anything non-urgent before the holiday starts, note the local duty-doctor arrangements, and remember the four-day prescription expiry — a long weekend can consume it entirely.