IF you are planning to visit Japan in December or January, try to avoid traveling during the last week in December and first week in January.
That period is the busiest travel seasons in Japan. Many people who come to work from late last week in December and the first week in January. Very difficult to make reservations for transportation and accommodation during this time, so it’s better planned before or after.
Travel on Christmas Day in Japan is not as bad as in western countries. One thing to remember is that Christmas has become a night for couples to go out and spend a romantic time together in restaurants or luxury hotels in Japan. Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, unless it happens on Sunday, business and schools remained open. But keep in mind December 23 a national holiday of Japan is Heisei Emperor’s Birthday.
New Year holiday is very important for the citizens of Japan. People usually spend New Year’s Eve with his family. Most businesses were closed starting December 29 or December 30 to January 4, depending on the type of business. Realize that the banks and hospitals will also be closed during the New Year. Check the date they are operating before the holiday begins. In recent years, many restaurants, shops, supermarkets, and department stores are open during the holidays.
Since many people travel outside of Tokyo during the New Year, then Tokyo, somewhat more quiet than usual, except the temples and markets. Probably a good choice to go to Tokyo during that time. You’ll also be a good deal from the hotels. But for you who want to place the hot springs and ski resorts across the crowded Japanese by many visitors, you must make reservations in advance to get there.