(Photo courtesy of photoAC)
Summer is not just for having fun at the beach, it’s also a time in Japan to show respect to your ancestors.
Obon is a memorial service for ancestors, which takes place from Aug. 13-16 at many locations on mainland Japan. Okinawans, on the other hand, mark this season from July 13-15 by the old calendar, which falls on Aug. 16 -18 of the new calendar in 2024. Obon is often called “kyuubon (old bon)” on the island.
The first day of obon in Okinawa is called “unkee,” which refers to the day “to welcome.” The second day is “nakabi (mid-day), and the last day is “uukui (to see off).”
To offer hospitality to loved ones whose spirits are thought to visit during the period, Okinawans commonly prepare incense sticks, uchikabi (money for the afterlife), liquor, flowers, fruits, and jyuushii (rice cooked with various ingredients) among other things.
Plus, a sugar cane is a must because it serves as a cane for the ancestors.
During the period, families and relatives get together at a house with a family Buddhist altar. The house’s entrance or gate is lit with candles or lanterns and with incense burning to welcome their deceased loved ones’ spirits home.
The last day “uukui,” on the other hand, comes with a unique way to see off the temporary visitors. One example is that Okinawans burn money for the afterlife and put out the fire by pouring tea and liquor on it before bringing it to the entrance along with incense sticks and some food as souvenirs. The send-off takes place at the entrance or the gate just like the welcoming on the first day.
The Okinawan dance “eisa” is meant to be performed on the “uukui” day to send their loved ones off. Today, eisa festivals don’t necessarily follow this rule. This year, festivals like Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri (Aug. 23 – 25) and Uruma City Eisa Matsuri (Aug. 31 – Sept. 1) are coming up toward the end of August.
Check out the eisa festivals for a taste of local tradition with performances and fireworks to mark the summer and obon season.
(Uchikabi (money for the afterlife) is burned as a souvenir for ancestors)
