Mostly Japanese people get a weeks holiday around August 15th for Obon. It’s different for each region, but generally it begins from the 13th and ends on the 16th of August.
Obon is one of the most important traditions in Japan’s culture. People believe that their ancestors’ spirits come back to their home town to visit their family during the Obon period. The customs and the way Obon is celebrated are different for each region. The basic ritual is to clean the house and prepare some nice food and flowers in front of a Buddhist altar. In this way, families can prepare to welcome the spirits of their ancestors back into their home.
Obon begins with the family visiting the graves of their ancestors. They lay joss sticks on the grave that give off a mysterious scent. They remember their dead relatives and welcome them back home. At the end of Obon floating lanterns are put into rivers and lakes to guide the spirits back to their own world. Obon is a time to remember your ancestors and spend time with your family.
Directions: First repeat after your tutor and then read aloud by yourself.
課題: 先生の後に続いてくり返した後、今度はひとりで発音してみましょう。
Directions: Read the questions aloud and answer them.
課題: 質問を声に出して読んだ後、答えてみましょう。