Have you experienced Tsukimi in Japan? お月見 (otsukimi), meaning “moon viewing,” is a cherished Japanese tradition that celebrates the beauty of the autumn moon. Often linked to 中秋の名月 (Chūshū no Meigetsu), or the Harvest Moon, Tsukimi takes place in mid-autumn to honor the full moon at its brightest.
Let’s explore this fascinating custom and discover how the Japanese celebrate Tsukimi with food, simple rituals, and a deep connection to the changing seasons.
If you’re interested in exploring more about Japanese culture and traditions, please take a look at below.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: What is 中秋の名月 (The Harvest Moon)?
The 中秋の名月 (Chūshū no Meigetsu), or Harvest Moon, refers to the moon seen on the night of the 15th day of the 8th month in the old lunar calendar. It is said to be the most beautiful moon of the year. In the lunar calendar, autumn covers the months of July to September, and the middle of this season, the 15th day of the 8th month, was called “Chūshū,” meaning mid-autumn.
The moon that rises on this night is called the “mid-autumn moon” (Chūshū no tsuki). During this time, the air is clear, the autumn breeze is cool, and the moon appears particularly stunning. This is why it became known as the “Harvest Moon” (Chūshū no Meigetsu), celebrated for its beauty.
Chapter 2: When is 中秋の名月 (The Harvest Moon)?
Due to the difference between the modern (Gregorian) calendar and the traditional lunar calendar, the date of 中秋の名月 (Chūshū no Meigetsu) changes every year. In 2024, it falls on September 17, and in 2025, it will be on October 6. While many people assume that the Harvest Moon is always a full moon, this is not always the case. For example, in 2024, the full moon will actually occur on September 18, a day after the Chūshū no Meigetsu. However, since the moon will be nearly full, it will still be beautifully visible in the night sky.
The moon that rises on this night is called the “mid-autumn moon” (Chūshū no tsuki). During this time, the air is clear, the autumn breeze is cool, and the moon appears particularly stunning. This is why it became known as the “Harvest Moon” (Chūshū no Meigetsu), celebrated for its beauty.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
|
2024 |
September 17, Tue |
|
2025 |
October 6th, Wed |
|
2026 |
September 25th, Fri |
Chapter 3: What are the customs of 中秋の名月?
月見 / Tsukimi (Moon Viewing):
Tsukimi, which means “viewing the moon,” is a key custom during Chūshū no Meigetsu. The tradition of moon viewing became popular during the Heian period, influenced by Chinese culture. At that time, nobles would admire the beautiful moon while drinking sake and composing poetry.
As the tradition spread among commoners during the Edo period, Tsukimi took on a deeper meaning related to the autumn harvest. People began to express gratitude to the gods for the successful harvest of crops like rice. Since agricultural activities were closely tied to the lunar phases, Tsukimi evolved into a harvest festival. Under the bright moon, people would offer seasonal foods to the gods and give thanks for the abundance of the season.
月見団子 / Tsukimi Dango:
One of the most iconic images of Chūshū no Meigetsu is Tsukimi Dango, rice dumplings made as offerings to give thanks for the harvest. The tradition of making dango from freshly harvested rice reflects gratitude for the crop. It is common to stack 15 dumplings in a pyramid shape, symbolizing the connection to the 15th day of the 8th month in the lunar calendar. The number 15 is significant because Chūshū no Meigetsu was traditionally celebrated on the Jūgoya (十五夜), the night of the 15th. Hence, 15 dumplings are offered to honor the occasion.
If you want to know how to cook Tsukimi Dango, please take a look below.
ススキ / Susuki (Pampas Grass):
Susuki, or pampas grass, has long been considered a sacred object in Japanese culture, believed to house the gods. Its sharp edges were also thought to ward off evil spirits. During Tsukimi, decorating with susuki symbolizes protection of the harvest from bad spirits and wishes for a good crop the following year. Around this time of year, susuki is commonly sold at flower shops, and you can even find Tsukimi decoration sets, including susuki, at stores like 100 yen shops.
