To mark the ascension of the new Emperor, the government has declared an unprecedented 10-day Golden Week holiday from late April to early May, worrying investors who say a market shutdown could cause disruption and unsettle the yen.
With Crown Prince Naruhito scheduled to be crowned new Emperor on May 1, the government made the entire period from April 27 to May 6 a market holiday.
The extra-long Golden Week will represent the longest break ever for Japanese stocks and bonds.