Jizo-ko is a service held in June that honors Jizo Bosatsu, whose statues are housed in front of the temple, the Nokotsudo (columbarium), and the Kannondo (Kannon room). Jizo Bosatsu (Ojizo sama) is the guardian of children and travelers. In Japan, Ojizo sama statues made from stone can be found along the roadsides. The memorial services held at Obon have two meanings. One is to honor the Buddha and show reverence for one’s ancestors and others who have died. The other is to express gratitude to all people to whom we are indebted, including people who are alive such as our parents, relatives, and friends. The full expression for Obon is Urabon-e which is derived from “Ullabana,” an old Indian word.
