Obon is a buddhist even for Japanese to salute their ancestors. 

Many Japanese people return to their hometown to visit graves and spend time with their family, hence the heavy traffic and crowded public transportation during obon period. 

Obon period this year is August 13th (Saturday) – 16th (Tuesday).

Japan has new public holiday which is on August 11th, therefore, there are some companies that will have August 12th as an off day as well.

Here are the peak of the peak for people traveling out of Tokyo; 

Here are the peak of the peak for people traveling back to Tokyo; 

Recommended Late Night Driving 

Unfortunately, the only way to avoid being stuck in traffic is to travel late at night. 

Depending on which highway you are traveling, you may still encounter some slow moving traffic even late at night. But this is still going to be much better than traveling during the day.  

Morning Drive – not a great choice  

You may think early morning should be ok as well. Well, during the peak date, even at 5am you may encounter traffic jam. 

Depending on which highway you are traveling, you may still encounter some slow moving traffic even late at night. But this is still going to be much better than traveling during the day.  

If you can avoid those peak days, you should try to do so. The traffic is terrible and if you get stuck in one of those 30km long traffic jam, it will ruin your Japan trip! 

Traveling by train? 

Here is the estimated peak time for Shinkansen bullet train; 

It will be impossible to find seat especially for free seating cabin on 8/13 morning until late afternoon and 8/16  until lunch time.

Only tip that can be given is; 

If you are in Japan during obon period, do not let the traffic jam ruin your fun vacation.  

Follow the tips and avoid wave of people traveling!