Toronagashi in Sasebo

Lanterns float down the river to mark the end of Obon

Venue: Sasebo River When: Mid Aug 2024

Obon in Sasebo is punctuated by the sound of firecrackers and the glow of lanterns that are floated down the Sasebo River on the evening of August 15th. The lanterns are blessed by priests and passed hand over hand to be placed into the lazy current of the river that runs next to Sasebo Park in the city center. The sight of these vessels weaving their way slowly downstream as they shepherd the souls of the city's departed spirits back to the afterlife is magical.

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Sherilyn Siy 3 years ago
That must be a breathtaking sight.
Elena Lisina 3 years ago
Beautiful at night. Good tradition to remember...

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