Obon
8/09/2016
What is Obon?
Obon is a time of year when people pay respect to the spirits of their ancestors. It is supposed to take place from the 13th - 15th of the seventh month of the year. However, due to fact that according to the lunar calendar, obon coincides with the 8th month, some regions in Japan celebrate obon in August.
What do people do on Obon?
Even though it is a celebration to honor the dead this is by no means a solemn occasion. Many people consider it a time to spend with loved ones as they return to their hometowns to visit their ancestors’ graves. Many people also attend local festivals.
How do people celebrate Obon?
This celebration is from Buddhism and is based on the legend of a devout monk who happily danced when he released his mother’s spirit from the Realm of Hungry Ghosts. Because of this, many festivals are held in the city and people perform traditional folk dance called bon odori. The dance itself is pretty simple and many people participate by dancing in a circle while listening to traditional music and taiko drum playing.
People celebrate Obon in their homes by first cleaning the house and arranging flowers. Then, people light lanterns called bon chochin and place fruits and vegetables as offerings on their family altar.
Where can I celebrate Obon in Tokyo?
The Hibiya Park Marunouchi Ondo Dai Bon-odori Dance Festival is a great place to celebrate this summer tradition. Everyone from foreign visitors to local residents comes out to enjoy the exciting event. It takes place from August 26 - 27 from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm.
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Hibiya Park Marunouchi Ondo Dai Bon-odori Festival
Another great event is the Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple Noryo Bon Odori Taikai. This beautiful temple was completed in 1934 and features breathtaking Buddhist architecture. This event takes place from August 3 - 6 from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm (on the last day, the event is from 6:00 - 8:30pm).
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Tsukiji Hongan-ji Noryo Bon Odori Taikai
An exciting event for both adults and children is the Tsukudajima-no-Bon Odori. This festival takes place a little bit earlier -- from July 13 - 15 and has two different times for dancing. Children’s dancing will take place from 6:00pm - 7:30pm and dancing for adults will take place from 8:00pm - 9:00pm. What a great opportunity to bring your children along for the fun!
Obon is a great time to be with your family, but it’s also a great time to take part in a unique cultural experience. Your time in Tokyo will be unforgettable, so make sure you can take in all of the wonderful things that the city has to offer!
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