Sunday, August 4, 2024 Obon , also known simply as Bon, is a blend of ancient Japanese beliefs about ancestral spirits and a Buddhist tradition for honoring one’s ancestors. This annual Japanese holiday is dedicated to commemorating and remembering deceased ancestors. It is believed that during Obon, the spirits of the ancestors return to visit their living relatives.
To guide these spirits, chochin (paper) lanterns are hung, and traditional Obon dances (bon odori) are performed. Obon: Japan’s Third Busiest Holiday Period Sees 20 Million Travelers Honoring Ancestral Spirits Obon, observed from 13 Aug 2024 to 16 Aug 2024, is the third busiest holiday period in Japan, following New Year and Golden Week, attracting millions of visitors. This Buddhist festival is a time to honor the spirits of ancestors, with tradition holding that, for a brief period in mid-August, the spirits of the deceased return to the world of the living.
The event sees a significant influx of domestic travelers, with approximately 20 million people moving across the country to visit family graves and participate in local festivities. This cultural event draws significant numbers of tourists and participants, reflecting the deep respect for heritage and family ties in Japanese culture. Japan Sees Surge in International Tourism with Over 3 Million Visitors According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Japan welcomed an estimated 3,040,100 international travelers in May 2024.
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