August: Typhoon Season and Obon
Obon is a Buddhist ritual in which ancestors are welcomed into the home and offered prayers for their souls.
Obon is believed to have been introduced to Japan in the 7th century, and has been practiced since ancient times.
It is also customary to show hospitality to the deceased by displaying Obon-themed decorations, such as Obon lanterns and horses and cows made from cucumbers and eggplants.
During Obon, schools are on summer vacation and many companies are closed.
As a result, tourist destinations are extremely crowded and roads are often congested.
Tourist destinations are most crowded during the New Year’s holiday and Obon in Japan.
This period is also typhoon season, with many typhoons.
Typhoons often rise from Okinawa, pass toward Kyushu, and make a direct hit on Honshu.
Every year, Kyushu and other areas suffer significant damage from heavy rains, often completely destroying homes and crops.
I personally avoid traveling during typhoon season.
It has long been said that the summer heat will ease after Obon, but recently the heat has not let up at all.
If you are planning to visit Japan during this time, please be careful of typhoons.
It is very common for flights to be canceled due to typhoons.
