The final day of Japan's traditional Obon Holiday saw a massive increase in traffic as many travelers made the 'U-turn' rush back to their homes. Due to the volume of people visiting their hometowns to honor their ancestors in the Obon tradition, there was a significant traffic congestion. The traffic control authorities and local governments are taking necessary measures to manage the situation and ensure travelers' safety.
In Japan, the Obon Holiday is a significant event when many people return to their hometowns for the family reunion, which leads to a massive "U-turn" rush at its end. The issue of traffic congestion is a topical concern every year, influencing the journey of millions of Japanese citizens. The social value placed on family ties and honoring ancestors is tightly interwoven with this issue.
In the US, similar traffic congestion occurs during major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas when people also travel to their hometowns. However, the magnitude and cultural significance of the Obon holiday in Japan can make the U-turn rush even more intense. In the EU, congestions can also occur during popular holiday periods, although traffic management measures might differ.