Visiting Home and Family Graves During Summer Holidays

WHEN EAST MEETS WEST
Commentary by Hank F. Miller Jr.

A series of events called \”Oban\” is centered on August 15th, when one greets one\’s ancestors upon their return home. Oban is a Buddhist festival held in mid summer when the Japanese people welcome and entertain their ancestor’s spirits who are believed to have returned home, to visit the mortal world. Offerings are made to the returning spirits, and sends them on their way again.

PHOTO: BON ODORI DANCERS

A very old practice, Oban combines indigenous Japanese religious faith in one\’s