This is a listing of Obon “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQ). If there are questions that are not answered here, please ask on FaceBook at the San Jose Obon page.

  • “What are the hours?”
    • Saturday, July 9: 12 pm to 10 pm
    • Sunday, July 10: 12 pm to 9 pm
  • “Are pets allowed?”
    • Yes, in most areas pets on leashes are allowed. The only exception to this is the Food Court where pets are not allowed. (Service animals excepted)
  • “Where is the Festival?”
    • The San Jose Obon Festival is held at the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin which is located at 640 N. 5th St, San Jose, CA between Taylor and Jackson Streets. [Google Maps Link]
  • “Parking in Japantown is really bad. Is there parking available?”
    • Yes, we strongly encourage visitors to take advantage of our free parking available at the county lot on 1st St and Hedding [Google Maps Link – Parking]. We provide an air conditioned shuttle to the Obon Festival. It operates one hour before and after the Festival hours. It’s also a 20 minute walk to the San Jose Obon.
  • “Do you take credit cards at the booths?”
    • Some food booths do take credit cards (2022 is our first year doing this so please be patient with us). In addition, we have an ATM booth.
  • “Is there a map of the Festival?”
    • Yes, most of the booths have some available. You can also go to the Information Booth near the Education Building just west of 5th Street.
  • “How long has the Festival been going on?”
    • We don’t really know. We have a receipt for ice to cool “Obon soda” from the 30s. We also know that the Odori (dancing) occurred even in the 1900’s right after the temple was formed (1903). The current form started after the Japanese Americans returned from internment during World War II.
  • “Is there a live-stream of the Festival this year (2022)?”
  • “Will the 2022 Obon be the same as in year’s past?”
    • Not quite! As seen in the attached post, we have some booths that are on pause this year. We hope to get as many of them back, in 2023, as possible. Huge THANK YOU to all of the organizations who opted in for 2022!
  • “Where can I find some of the Odori (Japanese dance) practice videos online?”
  • “Am I expected to wear a mask?”
    • We are anticipating a sizable crowd. While masks are currently not mandated outdoors, we ask that you wear a mask in crowded areas unless you are actively eating or drinking. Also, for the safety of others, we request masking indoors.
  • “Where can I get yukata dressing assistance for the dancing?”
    • Unfortunately, we are unable to provide changing rooms and dress assistants this year. However, below are some helpful links if you wish to dress yourself. You are also welcome to come as you are, or in a happi coat.
  • “I am not comfortable coming out physically to the Obon Festival, but I don’t want to miss out”
    • We understand that some may still be getting used to being in a crowd. Some of our programming will be live streamed on our San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin Facebook/YouTube channels. We look forward to seeing some of you virtually!
  • “I would love to volunteer. Are there still spots?”
    • Yes. We have a few shifts that still need help. Send an email to sjobonhelp@gmail.com and we can send you more info. Huge thanks to the many people who have already signed up.
  • “Will there be bike parking?”
    • Unfortunately, as of right now, we will no have the bike parking areas that we’ve had in the past. Please be prepared to securely lock up your bike and know that there have been several bike theft issues this year. If this changes, we will update this answer.