Obon Festival in Japan, or the Festival of Souls, is one of the happiest Japanese celebrations. Blending tradition with celebration, this festival showcases floating lanterns, dancing, and Japanese drums.

The Bon Odon is one of Tokyo’s signature summer events. You will find more than 200 Odon festivals held just in Tokyo.

3 Things to Do during Obon Festival In Japan: Watch or participate in the candle lighting, where floating lanterns are placed in the river. You can watch a Bon Odori dance performance – you can even participate. Everyone’s welcome. Don’t be too self-conscious. Or sit and listen to Japanese Taiko drums.

In Tokyo locals celebrate it on dates on or near the 15th of August mostly, but the peak is anticipated to run from August 11th until August 20th. The ‘real’ date is August 15th and the weekends before and after are the heaviest travel times. Everyone travels during Obon to the countryside to visit their ancestors and families.

Speak to one of our advisors for further information on the 2017 Obon Festival.