Obon Festival: Japan's Festival of the Dead Explained

Obon Festival: Japan's Festival of the Dead Explained

Obon (盆), celebrated throughout Japan from August 13-15 annually (though some regions observe July 13-15), represents one of Japan's most important and spiritually significant festivals. This three-day celebration marks the period when Japanese Buddhists believe ancestral spirits return to visit their living families. As of 2025, approximately 80 million Japanese people participate in Obon celebrations, making it the most widely observed religious festival in the nation. For travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences during this peak season, understanding Obon's spiritual significance, traditions, and logistics is essential for planning a meaningful visit.

Spiritual Foundations of Obon

Obon traditions blend Buddhism and Shinto beliefs developed over more than 1,500 years of Japanese religious practice. The festival's origins trace to a Buddhist sutra describing a disciple saving his deceased mother from the realm of the hungry ghosts (preta in Sanskrit) by making offerings to Buddhist priests. Over centuries, this religious practice merged with Shinto reverence for ancestral spirits (kami), creating a uniquely Japanese observance that transcends strict religious boundaries. Modern Obon functions as both a spiritual holiday and a time for family reunification, with Japanese workers traveling to hometowns for multi-generational gatherings.

Obon Preparations and Household Rituals

Establishing the Welcoming Space

Preparation for Obon begins 2-3 weeks before the festival, with families performing thorough house cleaning (seijisou) to welcome ancestral spirits. Traditional homes construct a temporary altar called a "Bon shelf" (butsudan or Bon-dana) in main living rooms, typically featuring Buddhist altars or Shinto kamidana shrines. The altars are decorated with fresh flowers (especially white and purple chrysanthemums), and small lanterns called "Obon toro" are placed to guide spirits. Families prepare offerings called "Obon-dana" including seasonal fruits (melons, eggplants, cucumbers), sweets, rice, and vegetable dishes. Eggplant is carved to resemble a horse (to carry spirits there quickly) and cucumber is carved as a cow (to carry spirits home slowly).

Welcoming Spirits and Lighting Fires

On the first day of Obon (typically August 13), families light small fires called "Mukaebi" (welcoming fires) at home entrances or in special outdoor spaces. In rural areas, these fires were traditionally made with tree branches; modern urban homes use small ritual fire bowls (about 30-45 centimeters in diameter) or lanterns. The fires burn from evening through the night, believed to illuminate the path for ancestral spirits returning from the spiritual realm. In many towns and villages, community welcome fires are lit simultaneously at temples, shrines, and public spaces at approximately 6:00-7:00 PM on August 13.

Visiting Family Graves

During the Obon period, families visit ancestral graves to clean the stone monuments (haka), leave fresh flowers, and make offerings of water, fruit, and food. This grave-visiting practice (mairi) occurs throughout the three-day period, with the busiest days typically falling on August 13-14. At the grave site, families perform simple rituals: lighting incense sticks, bowing to the grave marker, and sometimes pouring water over the stone to symbolically cleanse the site. Families may stay at gravesites for 30-60 minutes, sharing stories about deceased relatives and connecting multiple generations through narrative. Many families hire professional grave cleaners in advance (costing ¥3,000-¥8,000 / $20-$55 USD) if they cannot visit in person.

Bon Odori: The Festival's Most Visible Celebration

Origins and Evolution of Bon Odori

Bon Odori (盆踊り) translates to "Obon dance" and represents the most visible and participatory aspect of Obon celebrations. While spiritual components of Obon are private family affairs, Bon Odori dances occur in public spaces throughout villages, towns, and cities. The dance tradition originated approximately 600 years ago when Buddhist priests encouraged communities to dance as a form of expressing joy at the spiritual reunification with ancestors. Early Bon Odori followed rigid patterns established by Buddhist temples; over centuries, regional variations developed, with each prefecture and locality creating distinctive choreography and musical styles. As of 2025, Japan recognizes more than 200 distinct regional Bon Odori styles.

Modern Bon Odori Festivals Across Japan

Contemporary Bon Odori celebrations typically occur during evening hours (6:00 PM to 10:00 PM) in town squares, parks, temple grounds, or specially designated festival spaces. A central wooden platform (yagura) features live musicians playing traditional instruments: taiko drums, shamisen (three-stringed lute), flutes, and other traditional instruments. In modern settings, recorded music often accompanies dance. The dances are performed in concentric circles around the yagura, with dancers moving in synchronized but simple patterns that visitors can readily join. Unlike formal Japanese dance performances, Bon Odori explicitly welcomes participant involvement regardless of skill level or cultural background.

Attendees dress in casual summer clothing or traditional yukata (casual kimono), though participation does not require specific dress. The atmosphere combines spiritual reverence with festive joy, characterized by lanterns, food vendor stalls (yakitori stands, takoyaki vendors, shaved ice), and families of all ages dancing together. Major Bon Odori events can draw 10,000-100,000 participants, with festivals in metropolitan areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto attracting even larger crowds.

Major Bon Odori Festivals to Attend

Awa Odori (Tokushima Prefecture) represents Japan's largest and most famous Bon Odori celebration, drawing approximately 1.3 million spectators over four days (August 12-15). The festival features professional dance groups (rendan) performing elaborate choreography with synchronized arm movements, hip movements, and coordinated footwork. Dancers wear colorful costumes with flowing sleeves and traditional hats, creating visually striking processions through Tokushima's downtown streets. Approximately 1,000 different dance groups participate, from professional companies to neighborhood amateur groups. Spectator tickets for reserved seating cost ¥2,500-¥5,000 ($17-$34 USD). Standing room along parade routes remains free but fills by 6:00 PM.

Gujo Odori (Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture) emphasizes accessible participation over spectacle. The month-long Obon season features nightly dances in the historic town center (July 8-August 31 annually), with peak participation August 13-16. Unlike Awa Odori's choreographed performance traditions, Gujo Odori encourages visitors to join circles of local dancers and learn the simple hand and footwork patterns through observation. Dance instructors occasionally teach visitors the basic steps before evening dances begin at 7:30 PM. Free to participate; small food vendors provide sustenance. The Gujo Odori experience emphasizes community integration and spiritual celebration rather than spectacle.

Omagari Fireworks Festival (Akita Prefecture, August 3-6) combines Bon Odori traditions with fireworks displays featuring 18,000+ pyrotechnic devices. While occurring slightly before the main Obon period (August 13-15), the festival captures the festive spirit through dance performances, food vendors, and Japan's most competitive fireworks competition. Over 350,000 spectators attend, with free viewing of dance performances and fireworks from public spaces, though reserved seating costs ¥2,000-¥4,000 ($14-$28 USD).

Regional Variations and Unique Obon Traditions

Okinawa's Shikokudon and Summer Obon

Okinawa celebrates Obon traditions differently from mainland Japan, observing "Utuku" (Okinawan Bon) during the lunar calendar period (typically late August or September). The celebration emphasizes eisa dances, where performers move in coordinated lines while striking hand drums (paiku) with explosive energy. Eisa performances feature vibrant costumes, synchronized jumping, and dynamic rhythms that contrast sharply with mainland Bon Odori's circular, measured movements. Young males and females typically participate in separate dance groups, with performances lasting 15-20 minutes each. Major eisa celebrations occur throughout Okinawa, with particularly large events in Naha City drawing 200,000+ spectators.

Nagasaki's Obon Lantern Festival (Obon Joro Nagashi)

In Nagasaki City, the Obon period concludes with a stunning lantern-floating ceremony called "Obon Joro Nagashi" (or sometimes called "Nagasaki Obon Lantern Festival"), where approximately 10,000 paper lanterns are lit and gently released onto the Ota River at approximately 8:00 PM on the final evening of Obon (August 15 or the lunar calendar equivalent). Families write names of deceased relatives on the lanterns before release, creating a visually spectacular and emotionally moving scene. The river becomes illuminated by thousands of floating lanterns drifting toward the sea. This festival has been observed for over 400 years and stands as one of Japan's most photographically significant cultural events. Free to observe from riverside viewing areas; official lantern release packages cost ¥2,000-¥3,500 ($14-$24 USD).

Kyoto's Gozan no Okuribi Bonfires

Kyoto's "Gozan no Okuribi" (Five Great Mountains Fire) ceremony, held on August 16 each year, involves massive bonfires lit on five mountains surrounding Kyoto City (and one on a local shrine) to bid farewell to ancestral spirits. The largest bonfire forms the Chinese character "dai" (大, meaning "great") on the slope of Mount Nyoigatake, visible from throughout downtown Kyoto. The bonfires ignite simultaneously at 8:00 PM and burn for approximately 60 minutes. Thousands of spectators gather along the Kamogawa River to observe the spectacle, creating one of Kyoto's most spiritually significant annual events. Free to observe; optimal viewing requires arriving 1-2 hours before 8:00 PM to secure riverside viewing spots.

Obon Logistics and Traveling During Peak Festival Season

Timing and Date Variations

Obon celebrations occur on two different schedules in Japan. The original Obon observance (Luna calendar) falls in mid-August and is observed by approximately 60% of the Japanese population, particularly in rural areas and Okinawa. The modernized Gregorian calendar Obon (August 13-15) is observed by the remaining 40%, mainly in urban areas. As of 2025, most major Bon Odori festivals occur August 13-16, with some regional variations occurring July 8-31 or extending into early September. Travelers planning Obon visits should verify specific festival dates in their destination regions 2-3 months in advance.

Transportation Challenges During Obon Peak Season

Obon represents Japan's busiest travel season, with approximately 118 million domestic trips made during the Obon period. Highway traffic congestion reaches peak levels August 12-15, with delays regularly exceeding 50 kilometers. Railway services experience sold-out conditions on popular routes (Tokyo-Kyoto, Tokyo-Osaka) for 7-10 days surrounding the Obon peak. Shinkansen bullet trains operating the Tokaido Line sell out entire daily capacities by late May for August travel. Airlines increase flight capacity but still experience availability constraints.

If planning travel during Obon, book accommodations and transportation 4-6 weeks in advance. Flexible travelers should consider visiting cities outside traditional destinations (secondary cities like Kanazawa, Matsue, or Takayama experience lighter crowds) or extend trips to shoulder periods (August 9-12 or August 16-19) to avoid absolute peak congestion. Travel to mountainous or remote festival sites during Obon proves less crowded than urban area festivals.

Accommodation Availability and Pricing

Major tourist destinations raise accommodation prices 20-50% during Obon period and implement minimum stay requirements (typically 2-4 nights). Hotel rooms in Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka that normally cost ¥8,000-¥15,000 ($55-$103 USD) may reach ¥12,000-¥25,000 ($83-$172 USD) during Obon. Some properties implement non-refundable policies and require full advance payment. Budget accommodations (hostels, minshuku guesthouses, business hotels) prove less impacted by Obon price surges and maintain more consistent availability.

Booking accommodations in advance through major platforms (Booking.com, Agoda, Japanese-only sites like Jalan or Rakuten Travel) guarantees rates before pricing surges occur. For flexibility, consider booking accommodations outside Obon's absolute peak (August 11-16) and visiting festival sites via same-day transportation from nearby cities where availability remains reasonable.

Obon Foods and Festival Cuisine

Traditional Obon Foods

Obon observances involve specific foods with spiritual or symbolic significance. Somen noodles, served chilled in summer, appear frequently during Obon celebrations as they are believed to have originated as food offerings to Buddha. Edamame (boiled soybeans), kabocha squash, and eggplant dishes represent traditional vegetable offerings. Many families prepare tempura (battered and fried vegetables or shrimp), vegetable stews (nabe), and sweet dumplings called "dango" which appear in various regional styles.

Festival Vendor Foods

Bon Odori festivals feature extensive food vendor stalls (yatai) offering summer favorites. Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers, ¥300-¥500 / $2-$3.45 USD per skewer), takoyaki (octopus balls, ¥400-¥600 / $2.75-$4.14 USD per serving), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes, ¥500-¥1,000 / $3.45-$6.90 USD), and shaved ice with fruit syrup (kakigori, ¥300-¥500 / $2-$3.45 USD) populate festival grounds. Sweet vendors offer senbei (rice crackers), chocolate-covered strawberries, and candy apples. Beer and soft drink vendors line festival spaces, with small beers costing ¥500-¥800 ($3.45-$5.52 USD).

Obon Etiquette for Visitors

Respectful Behavior During Private Observances

While Bon Odori festivals are public and explicitly invite participation, private family observances (grave visits, home altar preparations, ancestral rituals) should be respected as intimate spiritual practices. If invited to a Japanese family's home during Obon, accept offerings of special foods and participate in simple rituals (lighting incense, bowing to altars) only if invited. Remove shoes when entering homes, and ask before photographing any altars or religious items.

Dress Code for Festivals

Casual summer clothing (shorts, light shirts, comfortable shoes) is entirely appropriate for Bon Odori attendance. Many attendees wear yukata (casual summer kimono), though this is optional and not required. Visiting rental shops (yukata rental costs ¥2,000-¥4,000 / $14-$28 USD) offer a cultural experience and allow comfortable evening wear for hot August nights. Avoid disrespectful displays (excessively revealing clothing, extreme costumes) that might offend during a spiritual celebration.

Photography and Social Media

Photography is generally permitted during public Bon Odori celebrations and festival events. However, avoid photographing private family grave visits or home altars without explicit permission. Respect "no photography" signs at temple facilities or restricted areas. When posting festival photos to social media, brief contexts acknowledging Obon's spiritual significance shows cultural respect.

Planning Your Obon Itinerary

Best Obon Destinations for First-Time Visitors

Gujo Odori (Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture) offers the most accessible Obon experience for international visitors, with community-oriented dances that encourage participation and clear opportunities to learn traditional choreography. The town's manageable size (population 32,000) and relative lack of crowds compared to Awa Odori create a welcoming environment. Accommodation in Gujo City includes traditional inns (minshuku, ¥7,000-¥12,000 / $48-$83 USD per person including meals) and modern business hotels (¥4,000-¥8,000 / $28-$55 USD per night).

Kyoto offers multiple Obon experiences within one city. The Gozan no Okuribi bonfire ceremony (August 16) provides accessible evening viewing from riverside public spaces. Nearby neighborhoods feature smaller Bon Odori celebrations with lower crowd densities than major urban festivals. Kyoto's extensive accommodation options serve various budgets (¥3,000-¥50,000 / $21-$345 USD per night), though booking 2-3 months advance is essential during Obon peak.

Awa Odori (Tokushima City) delivers the most spectacular Bon Odori performances and attracts international visitors accustomed to larger festival scales. While crowds reach 1+ million, the multi-day festival (August 12-15) includes designated spectator areas with reserved seating, professional crowd management, and comprehensive infrastructure. A 3-4 night Awa Odori itinerary should include festival attendance, exploring Tokushima's historical sites, and day trips to nearby attractions like Shikoku's scenic valleys.

Multi-Day Obon Itinerary Example

Day 1 (Obon Eve): Arrive in destination city in early evening. Check into accommodation. Explore local neighborhoods to observe Mukaebi welcome fires being lit (approximately 6:00-7:00 PM). Dinner at local restaurant featuring Obon-specific dishes. Early rest to accommodate early morning activities.

Day 2 (Obon First Day): Morning visit to local temple or shrine to observe community preparations. Lunch at casual restaurant. Early afternoon, observe or participate in Bon Odori festival (typically beginning 6:00-7:00 PM). Dinner at festival vendor stalls sampling multiple foods. Return to accommodation after 3-4 hours of dancing.

Day 3 (Obon Peak): Morning visit to gravesites or local cemetery observation (if accessible). Afternoon exploration of nearby museums, temples, or scenic areas. Early evening, second night of Bon Odori dancing. Dinner at seated restaurant if fatigued from previous evening's activities.

Day 4 (Obon Final Day or Departure): Morning exploration of local markets or shopping areas. Lunch featuring regional specialties. Afternoon departure or continued exploration if extending stay. Final evening observation of farewell fires or ceremonies if applicable to destination city.

Obon in Tokyo and Major Urban Areas

Tokyo's Obon Celebrations

Tokyo's massive population and summer vacation period create unique Obon dynamics. While fewer Tokyoites are native to the city (most migrate from regional prefectures), thousands return to ancestral hometowns during Obon, leaving Tokyo relatively quieter August 13-16. This contradiction creates opportunities: popular Tokyo attractions (Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, teamLab Borderless digital art museum) experience lighter-than-normal crowds during this week, while highways connecting Tokyo to regional destinations experience severe congestion.

Tokyoites who remain in the city participate in numerous neighborhood Bon Odori celebrations. Ward associations organize evening dances in local parks and temple grounds, with events like Asakusa Bon Odori (Taito Ward, featuring traditional choreography), Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July 29, predating Obon), and smaller neighborhood celebrations throughout residential areas. These Tokyo celebrations maintain free participation and community-friendly atmospheres suitable for visitor involvement.

Osaka and Kobe During Obon

Osaka experiences moderate Obon crowd increases but remains less congested than Kyoto. Local Bon Odori celebrations occur throughout numerous neighborhoods, with particularly significant events at Osaka Castle area, Dotonbori district, and temple grounds in Tennoji Ward. Kobe's harborfronts feature evening waterside Bon Odori celebrations combining dance with scenic coastal views. Both cities maintain extensive accommodation availability compared to Kyoto, making them practical base cities for regional Obon festival visits.

FAQ: Obon Festival Japan

Is Obon a good time for international tourists to visit Japan?

Obon presents mixed advantages and disadvantages. Benefits include witnessing Japan's most important cultural celebration, accessing special food offerings, and observing spiritual practices tourists typically miss. Disadvantages include extreme transportation congestion, inflated accommodation prices (20-50% above normal rates), and reduced availability during peak August 12-16 dates. Travelers with flexible schedules should visit during shoulder dates (August 9-11 or August 17-19) to balance cultural experiences with practical comfort.

Can I participate in Bon Odori dances as a foreigner?

Absolutely. Bon Odori explicitly welcomes all participants regardless of cultural background or dance experience. While some festivals emphasize spectacle over participation (Awa Odori), others actively encourage visitor involvement. Simply join the circular dance formation, observe other dancers, and follow their basic hand and footwork patterns. Local dancers typically respond positively to visitors attempting the choreography, offering guidance and encouragement.

What should I wear for Bon Odori festival attendance?

Casual summer clothing is entirely appropriate: shorts, light shirts, comfortable walking shoes, and minimal accessories. Many attendees wear yukata (casual summer kimono), and rental shops offer this cultural experience for ¥2,000-¥4,000 ($14-$28 USD). Avoid excessively revealing clothing or extreme costumes that might offend during a spiritual celebration. Comfortable shoes are essential as festivals involve 2-4 hours of standing and potential light dancing.

How far in advance should I book accommodations for Obon travel?

Accommodate bookings should occur 4-6 weeks before desired Obon dates, with critical bookings made by late May for August travel. Popular destinations (Kyoto, Takayama, Gujo Odori area) sell out by early June. Secondary destinations remain available through early July. Travel platforms like Booking.com and Japanese-specific sites (Jalan, Rakuten Travel) offer the widest availability and sometimes lock in lower rates for early bookings. Flexible travelers booking accommodations outside absolute peak dates (August 13-16) find significantly better availability and prices.

Are there any Obon celebrations outside the August 13-15 period?

Yes. Okinawa celebrates Utuku (Okinawan Obon) according to the lunar calendar, typically in late August or September. Some temples and regions maintain July Obon observances (approximately 15-20% of locations). Additionally, Obon-themed festivals extend beyond the exact dates: summer fireworks festivals occur throughout July-August (including famous events like Omagari Fireworks in early August), and some Bon Odori celebrations run month-long schedules (Gujo Odori operates July 8-August 31). Travelers unable to visit during August 13-15 should research specific destination celebrations to find suitable alternative dates.

What's the difference between modern Obon and traditional Obon celebrations?

Modern Obon emphasizes festive public celebrations (Bon Odori dances), family reunification, and vacation from work. Traditional Obon focused on intimate household rituals, grave visitations, and spiritual communion with deceased ancestors. Modern celebrations retain spiritual elements (welcome and farewell fires, altar preparations) but subordinate them to social and festive aspects. Contemporary Obon balances reverence for ancestors with summer celebration and family bonding, making it simultaneously a spiritual observance and national holiday.

How to Plan Your Obon Festival: Japan's Festival of the Dead Explained Trip: Step-by-Step Guide

As of 2025, Japan is more accessible than ever for independent travelers. Here's how to plan a seamless obon festival: japan's festival of the dead explained experience.

1. Decide your dates: Check seasonal conditions, festivals, and peak tourist periods for your destination. Japan's Golden Week (late April–early May) and Obon (mid-August) are the busiest — book 3–4 months ahead if traveling then.
2. Book accommodation early: Quality ryokan, budget guesthouses, and city hotels in popular areas sell out fast. Book on Booking.com, Jalan, or Rakuten Travel 2–3 months in advance. Expect ¥8,000–¥25,000 ($55–$172 USD) per night for mid-range options.
3. Plan your JR Pass usage: If traveling between multiple regions, a JR Pass (7-day: ¥50,000 / $345 USD; 14-day: ¥80,000 / $552 USD) may save money over individual Shinkansen tickets. Calculate your routes before purchasing.
4. Download key apps: Google Maps (offline maps), Google Translate (camera translation mode), HyperDia (train schedules), and Tabelog (restaurant reviews in English) are essential for smooth travel.
5. Get cash ready: Japan remains largely cash-based outside major tourist areas. Withdraw ¥30,000–¥50,000 ($200–$345 USD) at 7-Eleven or Japan Post ATMs (both reliably accept foreign cards) on arrival.
6. Learn 10 key phrases: "Sumimasen" (excuse me), "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you), "eigo wa hanasemasu ka?" (do you speak English?), and basic food allergy phrases go a long way toward smooth interactions.
7. Build in flexibility: Japan rewards spontaneity. Leave at least 20% of each day unscheduled for serendipitous discoveries — a tiny ramen shop with a line outside, a festival you didn't know was on, or a neighborhood you stumbled into.

FAQ: Obon Festival: Japan's Festival of the Dead Explained

When is the best time to visit for obon festival: japan's festival of the dead explained in Japan?

As of 2025, Japan's best travel windows depend on your priorities. Spring (late March–early May) offers cherry blossoms and mild weather but peak crowds. Autumn (October–November) brings spectacular foliage with fewer tourists than spring. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid but rich with festivals. Winter (December–February) is cold but offers snow scenery, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices outside ski resorts.

How much should I budget per day in Japan?

Budget travelers spending ¥6,000–¥10,000 ($41–$69 USD) per day can eat well at convenience stores and local restaurants, use public transport, and stay in hostels or budget guesthouses. Mid-range travelers spending ¥15,000–¥30,000 ($103–$207 USD) enjoy comfortable hotels, full restaurant meals, and museum admissions. Luxury travelers spending ¥50,000+ ($345 USD) can access ryokan, kaiseki dining, and premium experiences.

Do I need to speak Japanese to enjoy this experience?

English proficiency among younger Japanese has improved significantly. As of 2025, major tourist sites, hotels, and restaurants in cities typically have English menus and signage. Google Translate's camera function handles most written Japanese on the fly. Learning 10–20 basic phrases dramatically improves interactions in less-touristed areas. Japan's culture of hospitality (omotenashi) means locals will go out of their way to help even with limited shared language.

Is Japan safe for solo travelers and tourists?

Japan consistently ranks among the world's safest countries for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Lost wallets and belongings are frequently turned in to police boxes (koban). Solo female travelers routinely report feeling safer in Japan than anywhere else they've visited. Standard travel precautions apply — keep copies of important documents and be aware of your surroundings in busy entertainment districts late at night.

What is the easiest way to get around Japan?

Japan's public transport system is the world's most reliable and comprehensive. The JR Pass offers unlimited Shinkansen and limited express train travel (7-day: ¥50,000 / $345 USD; 14-day: ¥80,000 / $552 USD). IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) cover all city subways, buses, and many taxis. For rural areas, rental cars provide freedom — international driving permits are accepted and roads are well-signed in both Japanese and Roman characters.

What should I pack for this experience in Japan?

Essential items: IC transport card (load on arrival), pocket wifi or SIM card (reserve online before departure for ¥500–¥1,000 / $3.50–$7 USD per day), comfortable walking shoes (expect 15,000–25,000 steps daily), small cash reserve in yen (many small shops and vending machines are cash-only), and a compact umbrella (Japan's weather changes quickly). Leave bulky luggage at your hotel and use takkyubin (luggage forwarding services, ¥1,500–¥2,500 / $10–$17 USD per bag) to travel between cities unencumbered.