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Jun 14, 2024 · Is there a specific type of music associated with Obon? Music is a core component of Obon, particularly during Bon Odori. The music typically features traditional Japanese folk songs accompanied by taiko drums, flutes, and shamisen (a three-stringed traditional Japanese instrument).
- Origins
- Nationwide Rituals
- Regional Customs and Dances
Obon likely arrived in Japan with Buddhism. More specifically, it’s suspected to come from a specific passage in Buddist texts, where one of the disciples learns that his deceased mother is suffering in the afterlife. In response, Buddha suggests making offerings in the shape of food and prayer to the gods to appease them and alleviate the mother’s...
Fire is the main element used in many rituals and customs throughout Japan. Obon first starts with mukaebi, a practice where people light a small bonfire meant to help guide the spirits of the departed back home. In some regions, in addition to mukaebi, family members make horses and cows made of cucumbers and eggplants respectively. The horse help...
Obon is an incredible time to travel to Japan because of all the variations in customs among the regions. We’ll share some of the most interesting ones here, but know that there are many, many more.
Obon (お盆) or just Bon (盆) is a fusion of the ancient Japanese belief in ancestral spirits and a Japanese Buddhist custom to honor the spirits of one's ancestors. This Buddhist custom has evolved into a family reunion holiday during which people return to ancestral family places and visit and clean their ancestors' graves when the spirits ...
May 20, 2017 · A Buddhist tradition celebrated in Japan for over 500 years, Obon is an annual three-day event held in honor of one’s ancestors, which sees families get together as the spirits visit household altars. More recently, the holiday has become a time for family reunions, as people return to their hometowns and revisit the graves of the deceased.
- Dave Afshar
Aug 12, 2011 · Obon is a time when the spirits of the dead are honored. All over Japan people celebrate Obon by performing special dances to particular songs. The songs are often traditional Japanese folk songs that vary from region to region. One of the more recognizable Japanese folk songs is the Sōran Bushi (ソーラン節). It’s a song that hails from ...
Oct 18, 2024 · Obon is ingrained into Japanese culture and transcends religious boundaries. Non-Buddhists and non-religious people also partake in the rituals, making it a culturally significant event. The widespread celebration of Obon, even by those who do not follow Buddhist traditions, is a testament to its cultural importance.
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Aug 9, 2024 · Bon Odori – Obon Dance Festivals. Bon Odori (盆踊り) is a must-see celebration welcoming the spirits of ancestors. You’ll find throngs of revelers and dancers in traditional garb in the streets moving to the beat of taiko drums. The dances vary by region and make for a lively evening of entertainment. The most popular of these is Gujo ...
