Japan's Obon holidays are here! The Japanese believe that at this time of the year the souls of the dead return to the living and visit their loved ones. In "Obon" the Japanese visit the graves of relatives. They go home, where relatives gather, and eat delicious meals.

Do you know what 盆菓子(bon-gashi) is?
One of the most popular treats for ancestral spirits is sweets. It is widely believed that the reason why sweets are offered is that sugar and other sweets were once considered a luxury item. The candies are made from pressed powdered sugar and colored on top with food coloring. Japanese do not eat it, but only put it on a Buddhist altar. Now a lot of these sweets are sold in a normal supermarket.

Each candy is about the size of a palm. The central place is occupied by a candy in the form of a lotus flower. A direct allusion to the serenity of the afterlife and the wish to be reborn as a holy bodhisattva. The rest of the candies can depict seasonal fruits and even vegetables. Chrysanthemums are used as symbols of a long and happy life. They look very beautiful and elegant. But here's the taste ... Who is able to eat almost a glass of pure sugar in one sitting?

Have you tried 盆菓子? Share in the comments!