San
Jose Taiko has performed at various obon throughout California
since its inception, making their first obon performance
at the San Jose Japantown Obon in 1974.
We have
created an online resource for friends and fans of SJT
who want to learn more about the cultural context of obon,
and its importance both to us and the greater community.
What
is obon?
Obon
or "Festival of the Dead" is celebrated in Japanese-American
communities all over the country in the middle of July
or August. In America, obon has become a key event for
both the Buddhist temples and the local community, as
well as a celebration of the rich Japanese-American cultural
heritage. Obon features bon odori folk dancing, live music
and taiko, games, and lots of food.
Photos
Colorful shots of San Jose Taiko at San Jose Obon.
Perspectives
on obon
Thoughts
and reflections on obon by members in the taiko and Japantown
community.
