Obon (お盆) or just Bon (盆) is a Japanese Buddhist custom to honor one’s ancestors. It has evolved into a family reunion holiday when people return to ancestral family places to visit and clean their ancestors’ graves. It has been celebrated in Japan for more than 500 years and traditionally includes a dance, known as Bon Odori.

The festival of Obon lasts for three days; however, its starting date varies. Shichigatsu Bon (Bon in July) is based on the solar calendar. Hachigatsu Bon (Bon in August,) based on the lunar calendar, is celebrated around the 15th of August and is the most commonly celebrated time.