Holiday of Japanese people

Hi all,

I'm planning on going to Japan next year (april or may) and I was wondering when the Japanese people themselves have vacation. I would like to avoid the crowd. Can anybody tell me where I can find this information?

School holidays are in late December and early January, in the second half of March and in the second half of July and August. Mid August (Obon) is particularly busy.

Other holidays include the Golden Week in late April and early May.

And here is a list of national holidays:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2062.html

Avoid Golden Week if you can- it isn't the best time to travel as accommodation and transport is usually booked out well in advance. Tourist spots will be crowded.