How many public holidays does Japan have?

Sixteen a year — more than most countries. Several move each year because they are fixed to a particular Monday, or to the equinox.

What healthcare is open on a Japanese public holiday?

10,885 facilities nationwide: 5,034 hospitals and clinics, 2,434 dental clinics and 3,417 pharmacies.

Public holidays in Japan and what closes

Japan has sixteen public holidays a year — more than most countries — and several move each year because they are fixed to a particular Monday, or to the equinox.

What that means for healthcare

On a public holiday, 10,885 facilities nationwide are open: 5,034 hospitals and clinics, 2,434 dental clinics and 3,417 pharmacies. The rest close as they would on a Sunday.

Substitute holidays

When a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a substitute holiday. Clinics treat it as a holiday too, which can turn a weekend into three closed days without warning.

Planning around them

Check the calendar before booking a non-urgent appointment.
Refill prescriptions before a three-day weekend.
Pharmacies close with the clinics — being seen is only half of it.
The after-hours surcharge applies on public holidays.

Find facilities near you

Browse by prefecture and filter for public holiday opening.

Frequently asked questions

How many public holidays does Japan have?: Sixteen a year — more than most countries. Several move each year because they are fixed to a particular Monday, or to the equinox.
What healthcare is open on a Japanese public holiday?: 10,885 facilities nationwide: 5,034 hospitals and clinics, 2,434 dental clinics and 3,417 pharmacies.
What is a substitute holiday?: When a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a substitute holiday. Clinics treat it as a holiday too, which can turn a weekend into three closed days without warning.