This year, Obon came early in Monterey, California.
On Sunday 14th July, I went to the Monterey Peninsula Buddhist Temple to see their celebration of Japanese culture.
There were a lot of people from different backgrounds. They were enjoying the food, taiko, tea ceremony, bon odori dance, aikido demonstration and ikebana.
I bought a $10 bowl of udon and $5 yakiniku. It was expensive but to me, it was worth the money. When I lived in Japan, it was easy for me to find such food. In California, it isn’t as common so I am happy whenever I can get some.
Why does Monterey celebrate Obon?
In the early 20th century, Monterey was a popular destination for Japanese people who wanted to find work in the fishing industry. Many Japanese people also found work in farming, and some went on to be very wealthy. There is still a strong Japanese community here today, and a deep respect for Japanese culture.
This year, what will you do for Obon?
Is it strange to see Obon celebrated a day before Marine Day?
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