Obon - the annual Japanese Buddhist festival to honor departed spirits or one's ancestors, has evolved into a family reunion celebration which traditionally includes a dance known as Bon-Odori. Obon lasts for three days however starting date varies with regions of Japan. Shichigatsu Bon (Bon in July) is celebrated around July 15, Hachigatsu Bon (Bon in August) is celebrated around August 15, and Kyu Bon (Old Bon) is celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar.Along with the traditional religious Obon observances and Bon Odori dancing for Buddhist temples, United States Obon also hold a cultural and food bazaar providing a variety of cuisine and art, also to display features of Japanese culture and Japanese-American history.
San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin in San Jose Japantown will be held this coming weekend, July 11 and 12. Learn more
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