Obon
Respecting the spirits of ancestors
August is the month of Obon in Japan. Obon is a significant Buddhist festival in Japan, dedicated to honoring the spirits of deceased ancestors. It is a time when families come together to remember and celebrate their departed loved ones.
Obon typically takes place over three days, usually from August 13th to 15th, although the dates can vary depending on the region. This period is believed to be when the spirits of ancestors return to the living world to visit their families. Obon has its roots in the Buddhist Ullambana Sutra, which tells the story of Maudgalyayana (Mokuren), a disciple of Buddha, who sought to save his deceased mother from the Realm of Hungry Ghosts. Buddha advised him to make offerings to monks who had completed their summer retreat (Vassa). Through these offerings, Mokuren’s mother was liberated, and he danced with joy, leading to the origin of the Bon Odori (Obon dance).
Obon is a profound expression of Japanese culture and spirituality, offering a glimpse into the deep respect for ancestors that permeates the society. Whether through the solemn act of cleaning graves, the joyful Bon Odori dances, or the breathtaking Gozan Okuribi bonfires, Obon in Kyoto provides an unforgettable experience of tradition, community, and reverence for the past.
Traditional Practices During Obon
During Obon, various rituals and customs are observed to welcome and honor the spirits of ancestors.
Cleaning Graves: Families visit their ancestors’ graves to clean and maintain them. They often leave offerings of food, flowers, and incense to show respect and invite the spirits to visit their homes.
Mukae-bi (Welcoming Fires): On the evening of August 13th, small welcoming fires (mukae-bi) are lit at the entrances of homes to guide the spirits back.
Bon Odori (Obon Dance): Communities gather for Bon Odori, a traditional dance to welcome the spirits. Participants dance in a circle to the beat of taiko drums, wearing yukata (light summer kimono). The dances vary by region and are often held at temples, shrines, or local parks.
Toro Nagashi (Floating Lanterns): On the final evening of Obon, toro nagashi involves setting paper lanterns adrift on rivers or lakes. The lanterns guide the spirits back to the spirit world, symbolizing their safe return.
Gozan Okuribi: The closing of Obon in Kyoto
Gozan Okuribi is an ancient festival dating back to at least the 17th century,although some believe its origins are much older. The event marks the end of Obon, a Buddhist festival that honors the spirits of deceased ancestors. Obon typically takes place from August 13th to 15th, and it is believed that during this time, the spirits of the dead return to the living world to visit their families. The Gozan Okuribi, held on the 16th, serves as a farewell, guiding these spirits back to the afterlife with large bonfires.
The festival’s name, “Gozan Okuribi,” translates to “five mountains send-off fires.”This refers to the five giant bonfires lit on mountains surrounding Kyoto, each forming a distinct shape. The most famous of these is the “Daimonji,” a large character meaning “large” or “great,” set ablaze on Mount Daimonji. The other fires are shaped like a boat, a shrine gate (torii), and two different Chinese characters, each with its own significance and location.
Each of the five bonfires forms a distinct shape, including the character “大” (dai, meaning “large”or “great”), a boat, a shrine gate (torii), and two Chinese characters, “妙” (myo) and “法” (ho), meaning “wondrous dharma.”
* Date and Time: The Gozan Okuribi is held annually on August 16th. The first fire is lit at 20:00, and the others follow in quick succession.
* Tips for a Smooth Experience: Arrive Early – Crowds gather quickly, so arrive at your chosen viewing spot early to secure a good position. Respect Local Customs – Remember that this is a religious event. Behave respectfully, avoid loud conversations, and do not litter. Bring Essentials – August nights can be very hot even at night, so bring water, a hat, and perhaps a portable fan.