Obon in Kansai- Complete Travel Guide-
Obon in Japan – A Complete Guide for Visitors 1. Historical Background Obon (お盆) is a Japanese Buddhist tradition with over 500 years of history. It originated from the Buddhist Ullambana Sutra and later merged with Japan’s ancient ancestor worship practices. 2. Cultural Background It is one of Japan’s most important family gatherings. People return to their hometowns, visit graves, and welcome ancestral spirits back home. 3. Religious Background Obon combines Buddhist beliefs (welcoming and sending off spirits with offerings) and Shinto/folk traditions (using fire and lanterns to guide spirits). Kyoto’s Gozan no Okuribi is a symbolic example. 4. Present-Day Customs (with Kansai Highlights) Today, Obon is celebrated nationwide, but […]