Japan's Airports and Bullet Trains Packed as Five-Day Holiday Ends

Sep 23, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Airports and railway stations across Japan were crowded on September 23 as travelers returned from their hometowns and holiday destinations on the final day of the five-day Silver Week holiday, with international flight arrivals reaching their peak and many afternoon Shinkansen services fully booked.

According to All Nippon Airways (ANA), September 23 marked the peak for international flights arriving in Japan during the holiday period. Domestic flights were also busy, with Tokyo's Haneda Airport crowded with passengers returning from family visits and vacations.

One traveler returning from Kagawa Prefecture said the highlight of the trip was the local udon noodles, describing them as exceptionally delicious. Another passenger returning from Akita Prefecture said a barbecue by the seaside had been particularly enjoyable and that they planned to spend the final day of the holiday relaxing at home.

Shinkansen platforms at Tokyo Station were crowded from the morning as travelers headed back to the capital.

For the first time this year, all seats on Tokaido Shinkansen Nozomi services were designated during the Silver Week holiday period.

On September 23, some seats remained available on morning inbound Nozomi services heading toward Tokyo on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, but many afternoon trains were fully booked.

According to JR East, many services on the Tohoku and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines were already fully booked from the morning, reflecting heavy demand as travelers returned home at the end of the five-day holiday.

Source: TBS

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