The Obon dance is a traditional Japanese dance. People have the honour of their ancestors. The Obon festival takes place in mid-August in many regions of Japan and in mid-July in other regions. There are many forms in different regions. The most typical form is circle dance. People make a circle around a yagura, a high wooden stage; some dancers move clockwise, and some counter-clockwise. This is one of the most important traditions. A lot of people come back to reunite with their families during the Obon festival.