Experience summer with Bon Odori dance!

August in Japan is a month of remembrance and family time. It is most notable for Obon, a traditional festival dedicated to honoring ancestors’ spirits. Families gather to welcome their ancestors' souls and offer prayers. It’s also a time for summer festivals and fireworks, bringing people together to celebrate the season.

Japan and Shoryoma (Spirit Animals for Obon)

A symbolic ride for ancestral spirits. 🐉 During Obon, families create shoryoma using cucumbers and eggplants. The cucumber horse allows spirits to return quickly, while the eggplant cow provides a slow journey back. These are placed at altars to guide ancestors home.

Japan and Awa Odori

Dance like a fool, or watch like a fool! 💃 Awa Odori in Tokushima is Japan’s largest Bon Odori festival. Dancers chant, “Odoru aho ni miru aho, onaji aho nara odoranya son son!” (If both dancers and spectators are fools, you might as well dance!). The energetic performances create an unforgettable summer experience.

Japan and Shoronagashi (Spirit Boat Floating)

Farewell to ancestors’ spirits. 🏮 At the end of Obon, Shoronagashi is held, where lanterns and small boats with lit candles are floated down rivers or into the sea to guide spirits back to the afterlife. Nagasaki’s Shoronagashi is especially famous, creating a mesmerizing scene with fireworks and floating lights.

Zunda Mochi

A taste of Tohoku! 🥢 Zunda mochi is a traditional sweet from Japan’s Tohoku region, made by coating rice cakes with a smooth paste of mashed edamame, sugar, and salt. Miyagi Prefecture is particularly famous for this refreshing and nutty-flavored treat.