The heart of San Jose’s Japantown pulsed with cultural pride and community connection this weekend as hundreds gathered for the annual Obon Festival. Hosted by the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, this vibrant celebration drew locals and visitors alike to honor ancestors and preserve Japanese traditions.

The festival, known as the largest of its kind in the United States, transformed the historic Japantown into a lively space of music, dance, and cultural expression. Attendees dressed in beautiful kimonos and traditional attire participated in the centerpiece event - the Bon Odori, a community dance that symbolizes remembrance and unity.

Rinban Gerald Sakamoto, the head minister leading the event for the last time after 39 years of service, opened and closed the dance with a traditional gassho prayer. His retirement marks a significant moment for the community, highlighting the generational continuity of cultural practices.

Beyond dancing, festival-goers enjoyed an array of experiences including authentic Japanese cuisine, local vendor booths selling origami crafts, and performances by the San Jose Chidori band. Lanterns adorned with ancestors’ names illuminated the street, creating a poignant atmosphere of remembrance and celebration.

With San Jose being home to one of only three remaining Japantowns in the United States, events like the Obon Festival become crucial in preserving cultural heritage and creating intergenerational connections. Families like Alice Oshiro’s, who attended with her young daughters dressed in kimonos, exemplify how these traditions continue to be passed down and cherished.

The festival serves as a powerful reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that makes the Bay Area so unique, inviting everyone to participate in and appreciate the traditions that have shaped our community.