Business hours in Japan: when shops, offices and temples are open
City shops are usually open from about 10:00 to 20:00 every day, offices close on weekends, and convenience stores never close. Plan around three busy holiday periods: New Year, Golden Week and Obon.
Typical opening hours
The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) gives these general guides. Real hours differ by place, so use them only as a starting point.
- **Shops in cities:** about 10:00 to 20:00, every day of the week.
- **Shops in rural areas:** often close earlier, sometimes by 18:00.
- **Offices:** 9:00 to 17:00 on weekdays. They are closed on weekends.
- **Restaurants:** hours vary a lot. Check the restaurant's website or a map app.
Places that open all day and night
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) are open 24 hours, including national holidays.
- Some chain restaurants and discount stores are also open 24 hours.
- Trains generally run from about 5:00 until midnight. Check the last train before you go out in the evening.
Shrines and temples
Shrines and temples are generally open all year. The grounds are usually open from morning until late afternoon.
The shrine or temple office, where you buy amulets and goshuin (temple stamps), has its own hours. It may close earlier than the grounds.
Three busy holiday periods
- **New Year (late December to early January):** many businesses close for several days.
- **Golden Week (late April to early May):** a group of national holidays. Expect crowds and full trains.
- **Obon (mid-August):** many people travel to their home towns.
During these periods, some services may take reservations only. Check the operator's website before you go.
Avoid wasted trips
- Look up the opening hours and closing days of a place on the day before.
- Rush hours on weekday trains are roughly 7:30 to 9:00 and 17:30 to 19:00.
- Keep a convenience store in mind as your backup for food, drinks and cash.
FAQ
Are shops open on Sundays and national holidays?
In cities, most shops are open every day, including weekends. Offices are not. Some places close at New Year, so check ahead.
Where can I buy food late at night?
Convenience stores are open 24 hours. Some chain restaurants are also open all night.
Do the hours on this page apply everywhere?
No. They are general guides from JNTO. Always check the official website or map listing of the place you plan to visit.
Sources
Related tips
- Suica and IC cards: how visitors can pay for trains and shopsA Suica is a rechargeable IC card for trains, buses, vending machines and many shops. Visitors can get a Welcome Suica card or use Welcome Suica Mobile on a phone.
- Emergency numbers in Japan: 110, 119 and the visitor hotlineWho to call in Japan: 110 for the police, 119 for an ambulance or fire, and a 24-hour English hotline for visitors.
- Why Japanese hotels ask to see and copy your passportHotels in Japan must record the nationality and passport number of guests who do not live in Japan, and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare tells them to keep a copy.
- Tax-free shopping in Japan: what changes from November 1, 2026From November 1, 2026, tax-free shopping in Japan switches to a refund system: you pay tax at the shop and claim it back at customs when you leave. Here is what that means for your trip.
- Do you need cash in Japan? Cards, IC cards and yenCards of international brands are generally accepted across Japan, but not everywhere. Carry a card, a Suica or PASMO IC card and a little yen.
- How to buy coffee at a Japanese convenience store (hot and iced)Buy the cup first at the register, then make the coffee yourself at the machine. For iced coffee, take a cup of ice from the freezer. Lawson is different: staff may make it for you.
Last checked: 2026-10-31. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.