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Obon is a traditional Japanese event that occurs every year.
In modern times, it may be thought of as a long holiday, but originally it was the period when ancestors returned from the afterlife, and it was also an important time for ancestor memorial services.
Due to changes in living environments, fewer people have spacious Buddhist rooms or large Buddhist altars like in the past. However, even if there is no space to place them, the desire to hold memorial services for loved ones remains the same.
This time, we will introduce small tabletop bonbori lanterns that are perfect for modern lifestyles, categorized by interior design. You are sure to find one that suits your room.
Why do we decorate Bon lanterns?
Obon begins on August 13th (July 15th in some areas). On this day, ancestors are said to return home on their spirit horses, guided by the light of Bon lanterns.
Looking at the soft, gentle light of the Bon lanterns, some people may feel nostalgic, recalling summers spent with the deceased. Incidentally, the spirit horse is made by piercing chopsticks or bamboo skewers into cucumbers and eggplants, two representative summer vegetables. Recently, spirit horses have been made with various creative ideas. It seems that customs change with the times and are passed down.
Where should you place the bon lanterns?
Traditional Bon lanterns are generally placed in three places: next to the Buddhist altar, at the entrance, and under the eaves.
Since Hatsubon marks the first time that ancestors have returned, they are often placed outside under the eaves or at the entrance so that they can be seen clearly. While it is customary to display a pair (two), more and more people are now displaying just one, so you should decide how many to display based on your budget and where you plan to place them.
Small tabletop lanterns like the one we're introducing today can be displayed anywhere you like. Place them next to the Buddhist altar or a photo frame, as if gently placing them next to the deceased.
Recommended Bon Festival Lanterns by Interior Design
When you hear the word "bon lantern," some people may imagine the traditional designs seen in period dramas. However, in recent years, with changes in living environments, modern, compact Buddhist altars that resemble furniture have become more common. Accordingly, there is a wide variety of bon lanterns to choose from.
Here we will introduce three recommended tabletop bon lanterns for different room interiors. If you are having trouble deciding which one to choose, please use this as a reference.
style1 Simple and natural
"AKASHI" has a gentle form and the solid wood base used has a smooth finish.
AKASHI
"AKASHI" is recommended for rooms with a white or beige base, natural wood floors, linen fabrics, and textured interiors incorporating small plants.
Its simple and gentle form is crafted from solid oak. The long, flowing washi paper firebox is accented with brass lanterns shaped like cloud rings, a design feature often found in traditional lanterns. It also features an LED light and is battery-operated, making it easy to carry around. It's sure to appeal to those who strive for a minimalist lifestyle.
style2 Japanese modern
log
Japanese modern is a style that combines traditional Japanese materials with modern, stylish designs. Modern Western furniture is arranged with Japanese residential styles such as tatami mats and shoji screens. This style, which combines Japanese furniture with flooring, creates a calm and relaxing space.
"Log" is a lantern made by wrapping paper fibers from a plant called kozo around washi paper, which has been formed into a cylindrical shape using a technique called three-dimensional hand-making. Its appearance is reminiscent of a birch forest. The walnut color of the base will give your room a calming impression.
style3 asian
The sharply designed "Trenta S" (right) looks great in Asian and Japanese-style rooms.
Trenta S
This is a luxurious and relaxed style reminiscent of resorts in Bali and Phuket, and is characterized by furniture that retains the rustic texture of natural materials such as rattan and wood with a grain, often paired with fabrics in bold colors and patterns.
The soft light that shines through the maple lattice of "Trenta S" will help you relax. By changing the reinforced Japanese paper inside, you can change the color to four colors: white, matcha, wisteria, and sky blue, so you can combine it with other household items.
What will you do when Obon is over?
Once the Obon season is over, the Bon lanterns are put away in a box and carefully stored until the following year. The white lanterns used for the first Obon are generally only used for that year. Do not store them, but dispose of them by burning them or other means.
Furthermore, modern and compact lanterns can be used all year round by changing the location.
During the Obon period, use it at the Buddhist altar or where you keep your memorial offerings.Otherwise, use it as a bedside lamp or in the living room.It is suitable for any place and occasion, so it also makes a great gift.
You can choose a bonbori lantern to match your room.
Originally, Bon lanterns were prepared to welcome ancestors during the Obon period. In recent years, the number of homes with Buddhist altars has decreased, so compact tabletop lanterns have become popular.
Popular items may sell out before Obon, so be sure to prepare early and find something you like.
Click here for Bon Festival lanterns for interior decoration [floor-standing version] ▼
Can be used outside of Obon. 3 compact and stylish bon lanterns (floor-standing version)
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