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- Japanese Online Newsletter Vol. 183 お盆と墓参り（おぼんとはかまいり）
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Obon and Grave Visitation
Obon is a traditional Japanese Buddhist event where people welcome and honor the spirits of their ancestors. It’s usually on August 15 each year, and generally lasts four days, from August 13 to August 16. However, different regions may hold the event on different dates.
During Obon, families and relatives welcome their deceased ancestors’ spirits with special ceremonies. Generally, they visit graves, make offerings at Buddhist altars, and prepare offerings.
Visiting the graves is one of the most important ceremonies held during the Obon period. Families gather at the cemetery to pray before their deceased ancestors’ graves and offer incenses, flowers, and food for memorial services. They also clean the gravestones. Visiting the graves is an important event to renew gratitude and memories of ancestors and to feel connected to them.
To welcome the spirits of ancestors into the house, people decorate the altar and tablets in a special manner, and they prepare food and drinks as well. They offer prayers in front of the Buddhist altar to express gratitude to their ancestors’ spirits.
During the Obon period, every community also holds festivals such as Bon dances and fireworks displays, which are enjoyed as a united community.
Recently, however, urbanization and the shift toward nuclear families are changing Obon customs and events are changing. Some people take advantage of Obon holidays to enjoy traveling. In addition, rather than viewing it for its religious significance, some see Obon as an opportunity for summer vacation and family reunions. During the Obon period, many people return to their hometowns or parents’ homes to spend time with family and relatives.
Obon is an important event for Japanese people, deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition. Although every family and region may observe Obon differently, it’s still considered an important opportunity to express gratitude to ancestors, renew memories, and strengthen family and community ties.
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