For a few quiet days each August, Japan turns homeward.
Obon is one of Japan's gentlest traditions, observed in mid-August across most of the country. Families return to their hometowns, visit and tend family graves, and welcome home the spirits of their ancestors for a short stay. Lanterns are lit to guide the way — into the house at the start of Obon, and back out again at its close — and the days themselves are usually spent quietly, together, at a family table.
In that same spirit, Team Manekineko-Ai will be taking our own short rest this year. We will be closed from Tuesday, August 11 through Sunday, August 16, and will be back at our desks on Monday, August 17.
We're grateful for your patience, and hope that wherever you are, these last weeks of summer treat you gently. We look forward to being back at the shop soon.
— from Osaka, Team Manekineko-Ai