AN EVEN BIGGER CELEBRATION

In the culture of Japan a great variety of traditional festivals are held every year, which are known as “MATSURI” (祭), and are held to commemorate seasonal changes, historical events and also for traditions of centuries ago. In addition, each city, town and neighborhood has its own festivals, which has resulted in a wide variety of events throughout the year in Japan.

But there are also the “ENNICHI” (縁日) fairs, whose word translates as “day of connection” or “day of luck”; events that take place near Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines, because on that special day people go to seek the blessing of the deity. Turning that special day into a religious ceremony accompanied by food stalls, games of chance, sale of handicrafts and live shows, which together create a unique festive atmosphere. And sometimes, the day on which it takes place coincides with the “OBON” festivity.

THE OBON FESTIVAL (お盆):

Also known as “BON”, it is a festival that is celebrated during the months of July or August, depending on the region and usually lasts several days. It is believed that this is the time of the year when the spirits of the ancestors return to the world of the living to visit their relatives. So their relatives prepare them warm welcome with an offering in their honor; as well as performing other rituals, such as cleaning graves, lighting lanterns to guide the spirits and traditional dances called “BON ODORI” (盆踊り) where people gather to dance in a circle around a stage decorated with lanterns and lights to the rhythm of “TAIKO” (太鼓) drums and traditional songs.

WHY DO BOTH FESTIVITIES TAKE PLACE?

Although the OBON festival focuses on honoring ancestors, ENNICHI fairs can be part of the celebrations during OBON in some localities, especially in areas where the festival is very popular. So it is common in Japan to see ENNICHI fairs near temples and shrines on those days, allowing attendees to have the opportunity to participate in both the spiritual part of OBON and the festive part of the fairs.

And this year, you, your family and friends will be able to live the authentic experience of being at an ENNICHI fair in FUJITAYA, next Saturday, August 16, 2025. So we invite you to stay tuned to the next publications on our website and social networks to learn more details about this event.

In addition, the annual large-scale summer festival organized by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be held in FUJITAYA on Saturday, September 27 this year.