The History of Obon in Japanese Culture
“Obon”, also called the Bon Festival, is a very important and special tradition in Japan. It comes from Buddhist customs and is a time when people honor their ancestors. During Obon, it is believed that the spirits of ancestors return to our world. Every year in mid-August, families come together to remember their ancestors and think about the spiritual connections among different generations.
Obon has been celebrated for over 500 years and is a mix of Buddhist, Confucian, and Shinto beliefs. The festival usually lasts for three days, but the exact dates can be different depending on regions. Most people celebrate Obon from August 13th to 15th, but in some places, like the Kanto area, it is observed in July according to the lunar calendar.
The Significance of Obon in Japanese Culture
During Obon, families visit their ancestors’ graves, which is called “Ohakamairi”. They clean the graves, offer flowers, burn incense, and sometimes leave food. They also pray for their ancestors, showing respect and love for their family members who have passed away.
On the last day of Obon, families take part in a special ceremony called “Okuribi”. In this ceremony, lanterns are floated down rivers or into the sea. This is called “Toro Nagashi” and it represents sending the spirits of their ancestors back to the afterlife. Watching the glowing lanterns drift away is a beautiful and meaningful way to end the Obon festival, helping everyone feel connected to their family and traditions.
Let’s share beautiful moment with our ancestors with tasty beer
+283628 Coedo Beer’s Green Tea Saison
As you enjoy the traditions of Obon, make the experience even better with a taste of Japanese beer. Coedo Beer’s Green Tea Saison, +283628, has a fruity smell and a refreshing taste, making it a great choice for those special summer moments with your family.
This golden-hue Saison is brewed with renowned “hand-picked Sayama(狭山) Yabukita“ green tea, a local agricultural product from the region of COEDO brewery in Japan. You can feel the comfortable aroma of citrusy hops, the mild flavour of green tea, and the spiciness of Saison yeasts. The finish is so clean and refreshing to drink with 5% ABV.
