🏮 Obon Yasumi: Japan’s Summer Holiday of Spirits and Family
Share
Every August, Japan comes alive with lanterns, dances, and the sound of taiko drums for Obon Yasumi (お盆休み) — a time when families honor their ancestors and welcome their spirits back home. In Kyoto, this season blends deep tradition with unforgettable summer sights, making it one of the most culturally rich times to visit.
🌸 What Is Obon?
Obon is a Buddhist-Confucian custom that dates back over 500 years. It’s believed that during Obon, the spirits of deceased ancestors return to visit the living. Families prepare altars, offer food, and light lanterns to guide them home.
The holiday usually lasts three days, but in many areas — including Kyoto — it becomes a week-long period known as Obon Yasumi, when people take time off work to travel, reunite with family, and join local festivities.
📅 When Is Obon in Kyoto?
In most of Japan, including Kyoto, Obon is celebrated from August 13 to 16. The final night is especially important, marked by the city’s most famous summer event — the Gozan no Okuribi (五山の送り火).
🏮 How Kyoto Celebrates Obon
1. Gozan no Okuribi (Daimonji)
On the night of August 16, massive bonfires in the shape of characters and symbols are lit on five mountains surrounding Kyoto. These fires guide the spirits back to the afterlife. The most iconic is the 大 (“dai,” meaning “big”) on Daimonji-yama, visible from many parts of the city.
📍 Best viewing spots: Along the Kamo River near Demachiyanagi or in the north of the city.
2. Bon Odori (Bon Dances)
All over Kyoto, communities gather in open spaces to dance in a circle to traditional folk songs. The movements are simple and repetitive, making it easy for anyone to join.
📍 Tip: Look for neighborhood events in places like Yasaka Shrine or Kyoto Station area — many are open to visitors.
3. Lantern Floating (Toro Nagashi)
Lanterns are floated down rivers to send off spirits, creating a glowing, poetic scene. In Kyoto, you can see this at temples such as Daikaku-ji or during special events along the Katsura River.
✈️ Travel Tips for Obon Yasumi
Book early: Trains, buses, and hotels fill up quickly as many Japanese travel home during this period.
Expect crowds: Major tourist spots and transport hubs will be busy.
Stay local: Enjoy Kyoto’s smaller temples and neighborhood dances for a more intimate experience.
Bring a yukata: Summer kimono makes for a festive and comfortable way to join in the celebrations.
🌟 Why Visit Kyoto During Obon?
Obon Yasumi offers travelers a rare chance to experience Japan’s spiritual side in full display — from firelit mountains to the quiet glow of river lanterns. It’s a time when Kyoto feels both festive and deeply reflective, connecting the living and the departed through beauty, tradition, and community spirit.
Whether you’re here to see the spectacular Gozan no Okuribi or join a neighborhood Bon dance, Obon in Kyoto will leave you with memories — and photos — you’ll treasure for a lifetime.