Ohigan

Ohigan, also known as the Equinoctial Week, is a Japanese Buddhist holiday celebrated twice a year, once in the spring and once in the autumn. The autumn Ohigan falls around the autumnal equinox, and the spring Ohigan around the vernal equinox. These periods are considered times of spiritual reflection and purification. The exact dates vary slightly each year according to the astronomical equinox. During Ohigan, it is traditional to visit family graves and offer prayers and food to ancestors. Many people also clean their family altars. The concept behind Ohigan is that the equinox represents a balance between the earthly realm and the Buddhist Pure Land, making it an opportune time to connect with the spiritual world and reflect on life and death. Temples often hold special services during this week. The word "Ohigan" literally translates to "the other shore," referring to the Pure Land. It is a period for remembering those who have passed on and for contemplating one's own spiritual journey. While rooted in Buddhism, the practices associated with Ohigan have become a significant part of Japanese cultural traditions, observed by many regardless of their specific religious affiliation.