As Japan's Obon holiday period commences, a massive homecoming rush, known as U-Turn, unfolds across the country. Public transport systems keenly feel the impact, as countless people journey back to their hometowns to honor ancestors and reconnect with family. Expectations are for overcrowded trains, roads, and increased traffic during this peak travel period, which typically occurs in mid-August.

The Obon Festival forms a vital part of Japanese cultural and social fabric. Stakhanovite work in Japan makes such holiday periods highly valued and eagerly anticipated. During this period, it is customary for Japanese people to return to their hometowns (a practice known as U-Turn) and spend time with family while paying respect to ancestors. Consequently, the U-Turn rush puts significant demand on the country's transport infrastructure, which commonly leads to congestion and delays.

The U-Turn rush during Obon can be compared to the Thanksgiving holiday rush in the United States or the Christmas holiday rush across Europe. During these times, similar transport congestion issues ensue as families across these regions also tend to travel to spend precious time with loved ones.