Notes:
ancestor: 祖先 (そせん)
grave: 墓 (はか)
incense: 香 (こう)
altar: 祭壇 (さいだん)
cemetery: 墓地 (ぼち)

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In different cultures around the world, similar traditions exist to remember and honor ancestors, much like Japan’s Obon festival in August. In China, there’s the Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, usually in April. Families visit the graves of their ancestors to clean the tombs, offer food, and burn incense.

In Mexico, there’s the famous “Día de los Muertos” or “Day of the Dead” in early November. Families create altars with photos, foods, and items loved by those who have passed away, celebrating their lives with music and festivities.

In the United States and England, while there isn’t a specific festival like Obon, Memorial Day in the U.S. and Remembrance Day in the U.K. are days to honor those who have died, particularly in military service. People visit cemeteries, lay wreaths, and hold memorial services.

Each of these traditions, from Obon to Memorial Day, reflects a universal desire to connect with and remember our ancestors, showing respect and love across different cultures.
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Notes
fountain 噴水池,泉;
splash (…で)水をはねる;
wrap (…に)包む、くるむ;
ceiling 天井;
porche 玄関、ポーチ;
vine ブドウ、つる植物;

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Throughout history, before air conditioning was invented, people found creative ways to stay cool in hot weather. One way was by living in caves or underground houses, which were cooler than places on the surface. People also used water fountains, ice blocks, or wet cloths to reduce their body heat. They would drink cool water, splash themselves, or wrap themselves in damp cloths. During winter, they stored ice to use in summer for cooling drinks or rooms.

Buildings were designed with high ceilings, porches, and windows to let air flow and reduce heat. Trees or vines were planted for shade and to keep houses cool. During the hottest parts of the day, people rested in the shade or waited until night to do activities, enjoying the cooler night air. These methods show how people in the past adapted to hot climates.
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