Obon

VOL.27

August 2025

Obon

Obon

Obon is a deeply rooted tradition in Japan, observed every August as a time to honor and welcome the spirits of ancestors. It’s believed that during this period, the spirits of deceased family members return to visit the living. Families gather to clean graves, offer flowers and favorite foods, and light lanterns to guide the spirits home and back again.
Homes may display bon altars, while temples host ceremonies. The atmosphere is gentle and reflective, a moment for people to pause and remember those who came before them.

Obon

Chrysanthemum


The chrysanthemum, or kiku in Japanese, is one of Japan’s most culturally significant flowers. Representing longevity, dignity, and purity, it is often associated with autumn and is used to honor ancestors during events like Obon. Its quiet beauty also carries a solemn tone—chrysanthemums are commonly used at funerals and memorials.

Obon

Beyond its spiritual role, the chrysanthemum holds national symbolism. The 16-petal chrysanthemum crest is the official emblem of the Japanese Imperial Family. Known as the “Chrysanthemum Seal,” it reflects the monarchy’s continuity and historical prestige.

  • Mini Lemon Bonbon

    Mini Lemon Bonbon

    These tiny lemon-flavored sugar candies are shaped like strawberries, making them as adorable as they are tasty. With a gentle citrus flavor and just the right sweetness, they’re easy to enjoy for both kids and adults alike.

  • Konpeito Mix

    Konpeito Mix

    This colorful sugar candy mix includes multiple flavors and hues, offering both visual delight and gentle sweetness. Each tiny star-shaped piece is formed by slowly coating sugar syrup over many days, resulting in its iconic spiked shape and satisfying crunch.

  • Chura Salt Caramel Cashew

    Chura Salt Caramel Cashew

    These crunchy cashew nuts are coated in rich caramel and lightly dusted with Chura Shio, a mineral-rich sea salt from Okinawa. The balance of sweetness and salt brings out the natural flavor of the cashews, creating an irresistible combination.

  • Kogane Imo

    Kogane Imo

    Shaped like a sweet potato with a golden-brown surface, this charming baked confection is filled with smooth white bean paste. Gently scented with cinnamon, it blends warm sweetness with a nostalgic, earthy aroma.

  • Re:Start Sencha

    Re:Start Sencha

    This sencha offers a smooth, mellow sweetness with a refreshing green aroma. It's the kind of tea that gently lifts your mood and helps you reset, whether you're starting a new day or taking a quiet pause.

  • Hatcho Sweet Potato

    Hatcho Sweet Potato

    The Hatcho Sweet Potato is a rich and satisfying treat made with sweet potato dough crafted from Naruto Kintoki potato and filled with a savory-sweet Hatcho miso paste, then baked to perfection. Its moist, smooth texture and the mellow depth of miso flavor gently spread across the palate.

  • Oedo Matsuzaki

    Oedo Matsuzaki

    Each of these delicate cookies is a miniature masterpiece. The smooth surface is carefully decorated by skilled artisans, who hand-paint seasonal scenes inspired by Japan's natural beauty—cherry blossoms, fireworks, birds, and changing skies.

  • Kirishima Cha

    Kirishima Cha

    Grown in the misty mountains of southern Japan, Kirishima tea is known for its sweet aroma, rich umami flavor, and vibrant green color. This tea offers a smooth and refreshing experience that feels both calming and uplifting.

  • Tropical Fruits Karinto

    Tropical Fruits Karinto

    This cheerful mix includes pineapple, mango, and coconut-flavored karinto—a traditional Japanese snack with a tropical twist. Lightly sweet and satisfyingly crisp, each piece brings a different flavor to the mix.

  • Shio Lemon Agemochi

    Shio Lemon Agemochi

    This Okaki is crispy, bite-size pieces of fried dough with a refreshingly sour lemon flavor. Okaki is a traditional Japanese snack made from glutinous rice or regular rice that has been seasoned and dried or roasted.

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