Trying to do anything during Obon in Japan

[Ejector]

During this festival time 12-15 aug, do many retail stores close down?

How does it effect office workers etc. Do banks close down?

Thanks. ejector

[carlvinson]

retail stores are still open, but schools and offices close. I believe it's one of the Golden weeks in Japan. try to check out your local city central park, there will be obon carnivals in the evenings, it's nice. I spent 6 months there in 2003, it's a great place.