Matsushima Ryutoue Umi no bon

Umi no bon 'Toro Nagashi' 1

Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture with its National Treasure "Zuiganji-temple", is a historically religious area. 'Osegakie' which is a ritual of Japanese Buddhism, and 'Toro Nagashi' which is floating paper lanterns down in the sea, have a long history and tradition.
The festival reorganized to focus on the original meaning of the events as the Requiem and the memorial services instead of the former event which was only for fun such as fireworks after the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 with the participation of local volunteers, including the Japan Tourism Association.
Matsushima is an archipelago protected by over 260 islands, the islands played a role as a breakwater, therefore there has been no serious tsunami damage. However, many people lost their lives and many survivors lost their daily life in Higashi-Matsushima and the surrounding areas. During the Bon festival in August, people who worship the spirits of their ancestors, repose the souls for the people who lost their lives during the disaster, and pledge to rebuild the community to those people.　The memorial service for a departed soul is conducted by releasing lanterns in the sea of Matsushima by the people from all over the country for 2 days.
Holding the wishes which the deceased could not complete, the many thoughts which the ones left behind, and the pledge which connects them to the future. "I will not forget about you. We will strive to complete your wishes for the future." We spell it on the lanterns.

Contact: Matsushima Tourist Association 98-1 Azachonai, Matsushima, Matsushima-machi, Miyagi-gun, Miyagi Prefecture

Website: Matsushima Ryutoue Umi No Bon
http://uminobon.jp/english/