Toro Nagashi is a long-held Japanese tradition where Toro (paper lanterns) are released in the river. This is done in the last night of the three-day Bon Festival on several areas of Japan. The Bon Festival happens from 13th to 16th of August or July depending on the region.
Based on the Japanese traditions, the souls of the dead come back to Earth during Obon Festival and they stay here for three days. On the third day, a paper lantern must be released to the river to help the souls come back to the afterlife. The light coming from the lantern serve as a guide to the souls on their journey back. The white floating lanterns represent the souls of the dead people.
It is also the time to remember the dead loved ones and bring honor to them. With thousands of floating lanterns that create an illuminating and beautiful sight, this event gives a sappy kind of feeling to its participants.
Banner photo by Chris & Mayet Palacio. Licensed under Creative Commons.
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