"Shimi" at Kinjo Dam

Usually around this time of year, early Spring, many families here in Okinawa Prefecture observe a cultural tradition called "Shimi". 

For Shimi, families visit their family tombs ("Ohaka" in Japanese). The cremated remains of their dearly departed family members are in urns together sealed in the tombs. 

Families clean the exterior of the tombs. After that, they place gifts or offerings - such as food, flowers, drinks, etc. - in front of the tombs. They also light incense called "Osenko" as an offering. 

The family members then pray for their ancestors so that they might be able to find their way to heaven or to wherever it is departed souls go to inorder to be happy in the afterlife.

After praying the family members take the food and eat it in a picnic-like setting in front of or nearby the family tomb.

My wife is from Okinawa and I join her family for Shimi every Spring. Their family tomb is located near Kinjo Dam in Naha City.

Kinjo Dam is located in a nice quiet area with lots of lush vegetation, but many signs warn of "Habu" snakes though I have yet to see one. Often times ducks can be seen swimming in the dam.  

On the hill above the dam are many "Ohaka" or family tombs, which are a common site all over Okinawa.