Late Jizo Bon
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What Is Late Jizo Bon?
August 24th is "Late Jizo Bon" in Japan. Jizo Bon is a traditional event honoring Jizo, the guardian deity believed to watch over children, praying for their safe and healthy growth. The 24th of every month is an ennichi (festival day) for Jizo, and the one on the 24th day of the seventh lunar month, close to Obon, has traditionally been celebrated on a large scale as Jizo Bon. Since Japan adopted the solar calendar in the Meiji era, some regions hold it around August 24th, one month later than the original date.
A Community Event Where Children Take Center Stage
Jizo Bon is a deeply community-rooted tradition, especially popular in Kyoto and the wider Kansai region.
- What happens: lanterns and decorations are set up in front of the Jizo statues enshrined in each neighborhood, with flowers and offerings presented to pray for children's healthy growth
- An event centered on children: festivities such as candy distribution, games, and raffles for children are common
- Regional variation: Jizo Bon originally fell around the 24th day of the seventh lunar month, but under the modern calendar, many regions now observe it around August 24th, one month later
Why Jizo Is Considered a Guardian of Children
Jizo (Jizo Bosatsu) has long been worshipped in Buddhism as a protector of children. As a familiar presence enshrined along roadsides and street corners in communities, Jizo is cherished across Japan.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Check whether Jizo Bon is being held in your neighborhood
- Learn about the origins of the Jizo statue enshrined in your area
- Take part in a Jizo Bon event together with children
- Learn about how local traditions like this have been passed down over time
A Small Jizo Statue, Watching Over Children's Healthy Growth
Jizo Bon is a distinctly Japanese, warmhearted tradition, giving shape to the way a community's adults watch over and support its children. Let August 24th be a chance to add your own wish for children's happiness to the Jizo statue near you.