As the Golden Week approaches in Japan, excitement is building for a variety of events and travel opportunities. The first weekend of the holiday will feature the KiTACUBE LAB event in Moji-ku, Kitakyushu City, set for April 27, 2025. This vibrant community gathering will showcase local talent and businesses, providing a unique platform for residents and visitors alike.
The KiTACUBE LAB will take place at ZATTA ZISSE from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, featuring 29 different stores, including a notable participant from Hiroshima. Among the highlights, TonyBake Fukuoka Hisayoshi Store will offer a special limited edition chocolate croissant available for 100 days. Additionally, attendees can look forward to a discount ticket that can be used on the day for purchases over 1,000 yen, making it an enticing outing for families and friends.
In addition to local vendors, the event will include a diverse range of offerings, from fresh seafood sushi and donburi to exquisite Japanese sweets. Notable participants include the Aosen Fish Shop, which specializes in seafood, and various handmade goods and wellness sessions. The KiTACUBE community aims to celebrate individual passions and skills, creating a welcoming environment for all.
As the festivities kick off, Hotels.com has also released its 'Hidden Gem' domestic travel destination rankings for Golden Week 2025. Announced on April 10, the rankings highlight the top spots for travelers looking to explore Japan during this busy holiday period.
According to the rankings, Nagano takes the top spot, celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes, local cuisine, and historical sites. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views in areas like the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route and explore the historic Matsumoto Castle while savoring regional specialties such as soba noodles and mountain chicken dishes.
Following closely, Hyogo is ranked second, known for its picturesque spots and the famous wisteria in full bloom during Golden Week. The Awaji Green House, which reopened in March 2025, features Japan's first permanent exhibition of driftwood art, adding a unique cultural experience to the region.
Hiroshima, coming in third, offers a poignant reminder of peace as it commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome serve as vital historical sites, drawing visitors who wish to reflect on the past while advocating for global peace.
For those considering accommodation during the holiday, Hotels.com also recommended three standout hotels in the top-ranked areas. In Nagano, the Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu, established in 1887, provides a charming atmosphere just five minutes from Matsumoto Castle. Its retro-style rooms are adorned with traditional Matsumoto craft furniture, and guests can enjoy a large public bath filled with renowned local spring water.
In Hyogo, the Grand Mercure Awaji Island Resort & Spa, which underwent a rebranding in April 2024, offers all-inclusive luxury with stunning views of the island's natural beauty. The spacious rooms and elegant buffet restaurant featuring local ingredients ensure a memorable stay.
Meanwhile, in Hiroshima, the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima stands out with its panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, wellness facilities, and popular urban resort features, including a hot spring and restaurant. Guests can easily access the nearby World Heritage site of Itsukushima Shrine via a high-speed ferry from the hotel’s dock.
As the Golden Week nears, these events and travel opportunities are sure to attract both locals and tourists eager to explore Japan's rich culture and stunning landscapes. Whether attending the KiTACUBE LAB for a taste of local flair or traveling to one of the 'Hidden Gem' destinations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this festive season.
With the KiTACUBE LAB set to make a splash in Moji-ku and the travel rankings offering fresh ideas for exploration, the Golden Week of 2025 promises to be a memorable time for all.
