December 25 falls on a Sunday — a compensatory day off as one rest day, one work day policy was implemented before holiday cutbacks

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

With the passage of the one rest day, one work day (一例一休) bill, 2017 was confirmed to have no seven-day national holidays. Before the end of 2016, workers could still get an extra day off due to December 25 (Constitution Day) falling on a Sunday, resulting in a compensatory day off. Many businesses opted to grant a compensatory day off on either December 23 or December 26. Failing to provide such a day off may violate the Labor Standards Act, so workers should pay extra attention. The period around December 23–26 also coincides with the Christmas season, making it a good time to explore festive and winter attractions and plan a holiday trip.

When December 25 falls on a Sunday, according to the Labor Standards Act, workers are still entitled to an additional day off — the last holiday of the seven-day break. As for which day the compensatory leave will fall on, it needs to be determined through negotiation between the employer and employees. Those planning a trip might want to first confirm which day their company will grant the compensatory leave, to better arrange and book travel-related itineraries and tickets.

What is the one rest day, one work day policy?  Workers are confirmed to have seven fewer holidays