As August approaches, so does the end of obon. This year, hot summer nights were not spent dancing around a yagura, eating a KC Waffle hotdog or cooling off with shave ice under the moon and stars. However, thanks to the creativity and resourcefulness of Japanese Buddhist temples and community organizations across the state, we are still able to honor our ancestors this year. Hatsubon and obon services, Töro Nagashi (lantern floating) and bon dance are still possible with technology. Though this year we may have to dance in our driveway or around the dining room table.
Here are some of the remaining obon events coming up in July and August.
Sunday, July 19, at 10 a.m. – Bon Mairi service conducted by Rev. Masanari Yamagishi on the Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin YouTube channel.
Sunday, July 19, at 7 p.m. – 2020 Live Bon Festival presented by Koloa and Kapaa Jodo Mission on Kosen Ishikawa’s YouTube channel.
Sunday, July 26, at 10 a.m. – Bon Mairi service conducted by Rev. Yuika Hasebe on the Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin YouTube channel.
Saturday, Aug. 15, 7-8 p.m. – Online Hongwanji Bon Dance Experience on the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii YouTube channel. Guided and inspired by Bishop Eric Matsumoto, HHMH presents a virtual bon dance event. Get ready to dance to “Tanko Bushi” and “Joy and Peace.” An instructional video will be available.
Friday, Aug. 21, at 6 p.m. – Virtual Obon Service at Jodo Mission of Hawaii. The link to the Zoom service will be on the website jodo.us.
Saturday, Aug. 22, at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. – Jodo Mission of Hawaii presents a Hatsubon In-Person Obon Service (1429 Makiki St.). Limit up to 42 people at each service with 6-feet social distancing. Call the temple for reservations at 949-3995. For more information visit jodo.us.
