Bon dancers shake off the winter cobwebs and move in midseason form to the sounds of Japanese folk music at Sun Valley Buddhist Temple’s 61st annual Obon Festival, held June 21 and 22.
Dancers of all ages and from temples across the region participated.
The yagura in the center of the circle was a platform for taiko drummers keeping the beat.
Above and below: L.A. Matsuri Taiko gave a rousing performance for the audience during the rest period for the dancers.
Matsutoyo Minyo Kai performed minyo music.
Kids with prizes won at the game booths.
Snow cones were a popular item.
Volunteers prepared bowl after bowl of udon.
Teriyaki chicken is grilled to perfection.
Photos by MARIO G. REYES/Rafu Shimpo