Obon

Obon, sometimes referred to as the Festival of Lanterns, the Festival of Souls, or the Festival of Ancestors, is a Buddhist celebration in Japan.

Although this is not an official national holiday in Japan, most Japanese treat it as such.

During this period the Japanese believe that the souls of their ancestors return to their homes on earth. It's a time when those who are still living, can guide and help their ancestors' souls to find peace.

When is Obon?

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Originally, the festival of lanterns was celebrated between the 13th to the 16th of the seventh month on the lunar calendar. On the present day Japanese calendar, this translates into August and not July.

In Tokyo, however, perhaps being the pioneer of all things modern, the festival of ancestors is usually celebrated in July in line with the present day seventh month. Most of the rest of Japan, however, continues to follow the lunar dates with Obon matsuris taking place in August.

Even though Tokyo's official festival is in July, many businesses will close to allow employees to return home for the August festivities. Like Oshogatsu and Golden Week, this is a time that sees travel prices rising in proportion with the numbers of people on the move.

You need to book ahead and be prepared for crowds if you intend to use the transport system during the festival period.

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The Story Behind Obon

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The festival of lanterns today brings together the different elements of the story to help the souls of all those who have passed. Food, such as rice, vegetables, sweets, and cakes are prepared, shared and eaten in families and communities across Japan. Food is also left out for the souls to give them energy for the journey ahead.

On the 13th, the first day of Obon, families hang lanterns outside their houses and beside graves to welcome and lead the souls home. Then there is a celebration in their honor.

This is not a time for sadness as such, but a time to reflect on our own lives and respect those who have gone. It is a reminder to be a part of the community and not be selfish with our wants and needs.

The History of Obon

The Festival of Ancestors began with the story of a single Buddhist monk named Mokuren. After his mother passed away, he had a vision of her soul being in torment because of the life she had led on earth. He asked his priest how he could help her.

The priest told him he had to perform good deeds within the community in order to balance her karma so that her soul could move on. When Mokuren realized that his efforts had paid off and his mother's soul was now at rest, he broke into a joyful dance of relief that is remembered to this day as the Bon dance.

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Toro-Nagashi

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Toro-nagashi, or floating lanterns, mark the end of the Obon festival.

The lights symbolize the souls of those who have departed. The lanterns are placed on rivers or bays and allowed to drift away just as the ancestors return to their graves. It is a beautiful sight and, being a softie, it does bring a lump to my throat.

Finally, the festival of lanterns is held during the season of hanabi. It's a good enough reason to mark the end of the festivities with fireworks to ensure a safe passage and to frighten away any evil spirits that might be lurking.

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