The Japanese spirit of celebrating the arrival of autumn—the history of moon viewing and how to enjoy it today

The Japanese spirit of celebrating the arrival of autumn—the history of moon viewing and how to enjoy it today

This season, when the autumn breeze is blowing, my heart is always drawn to “Otsukimi”, which reflects the traditional atmosphere of Japan. While feeling the different climate in each of the 47 prefectures in Japan, I would like to tell you about the rich scenery of moon viewing that I saw and felt, the history and origin behind it, and the form of moon viewing that is still alive in modern times. Masu. As I unravel the customs of moon viewing that are rooted in each region, I hope that through my eyes you can experience the charm that has been passed down to this day. Through this blog, I hope to provide you with a time that will warm your heart as moon viewing is not just an event, but a heart-rich culture that colors the four seasons of Japan. First, let’s think about the history of moon viewing.

History and origin of moon viewing

Tracing the origins of moon viewing

When I hear the word moon viewing, I have warm memories of watching the moon while eating dumplings with my family in the garden when I was a child. However, not much is known about the origins of this custom. Moon viewing, or Harvest Moon, is said to have actually been introduced from China during the Heian period. It began when aristocrats enjoyed this custom at a banquet where they sang poems about the beauty of the moon.

Intersection of moon viewing and culture

Moon viewing was a pastime for the aristocrats, but it eventually spread to samurai and townspeople, and took root in each class and region. Tsukimi wasn’t just about gazing at the moon, but it also became a place where traditional Japanese culture intersected, such as composing waka poems and playing music. Particularly famous is the “Moon Viewing Banquet” held by Heian aristocrats. This is a feast to admire the beauty of moonlight reflected on the water surface, and can be said to be the prototype of modern moon viewing.

Changes in moon viewing with a rich local flavor

Having traveled all over the country, I have come into contact with moon viewing customs that differ from region to region. For example, in Arashiyama, Kyoto, the “Togetsukune” boat, where you can admire the moon from a boat floating in a clear stream, has been popular for a long time. Additionally, in the Tohoku region, there is a custom of offering ears of rice in gratitude for a bountiful harvest, and you can see slightly different views of the moon depending on the region.

Moon viewing and food culture

When you think of moon viewing, Susukino and dango are a must. Again, there are variations depending on the region. For example, in Nagano Prefecture, chestnut kinton is sometimes eaten as Tsukimi Dango. There is also a meaning in the number of Tsukimi Dango piled up, and when it is held as a Shinto ritual, 16 pieces are often piled up.This number represents the milestones of the year, and at the same time, it also has the meaning of praying for good health. It is also included.

Tracing the history of moon viewing reveals the Japanese people’s reverence for nature and their respect for the changing seasons. In the next part, we will talk in more detail about the moon viewing customs that differ by region.

Moon viewing customs by region

Exploring local colors under the moon

The moon viewing takes on different colors in different parts of the country, and is like a mirror that reflects the local climate and culture. The various moon viewing customs that I encountered while traveling around Japan are tied to the unique history of each region.

Hokkaido in the north, Okinawa in the south

In Hokkaido, large outdoor moon viewing events are held to celebrate and express gratitude for the autumn harvest. Dishes made with local produce are often served alongside a bright flame. On the other hand, Okinawa has a unique custom of moon viewing, which is often held on the fifteenth night of September rather than the fifteenth night of August according to the lunar calendar, and this day is called “Jugoya”. Under the moonlight, the sound of Eisa drums echoes.

Moon viewing in the city

The custom of moon viewing has not faded even in the city. In Tokyo, viewing the moon from the banks of the Sumida River in Asakusa, which is a famous place, or from the observation deck of Roppongi Hills is popular. At these locations, you can enjoy traditional moon viewing with modern elements. The moon seen from between the buildings has a different atmosphere.

Traditional taste rooted in the region

The food culture of Otsukimi is also very regional, with dango made with local specialties and dishes made with freshly harvested vegetables. For example, in Kyoto, you can find matcha-flavored Tsukimi dango, and in Ishikawa Prefecture, you can find dishes made with Kaga vegetables at Tsukimi seats. You can enjoy the taste of each region even more deeply through the culture of moon viewing.

An event to admire the moon

Local moon viewing events have become major events that attract tourists, and many local governments and tourism associations are implementing creative plans. For example, at Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara, a special nighttime viewing is held called “Moon Waiting Night,” where you can enjoy the fantastic scenery of the moon and historical buildings in silence.

These local customs of moon viewing are valuable experiences that give visitors a deep sense of the culture and history of the area. By experiencing moon viewing in various places myself, I was deeply moved by the rich culture of various parts of Japan. Moon viewing is not just an event, but a moment when the spirit of the place comes alive. Next, I would like to introduce some ways to enjoy moon viewing in modern times, including my own experiences.

How to enjoy moon viewing in modern times

A new type of moon viewing experience

In Japan, where tradition and modernity are fused, the ancient moon viewing is now being enjoyed in new ways. In urban areas, a variety of experiences are offered, including events where you can enjoy the night view and the moon together, and interactive moon viewing using digital technology.

Harmony of digital and nature

For example, at a planetarium in Tokyo, a special program in autumn is an explanation of the starry sky related to moon viewing, allowing you to think about the stars and the moon in the middle of the city. In addition, some restaurants offer special menus to coincide with the moon viewing, where you can enjoy moon-themed dishes.

The circle of moon viewing spreads through SNS

With the spread of SNS, moon viewing can now be enjoyed online. On Instagram and Twitter, moon viewing scenes from all over the country are shared using hashtags such as “#moonviewing,” and users can exchange their impressions with each other. I have also posted photos of the beautiful moon I saw while traveling and shared my impressions with many people.

Don’t forget to consider the environment

In modern moon viewing, you can also see efforts that take environmental issues into consideration. In order to reduce light pollution in the night sky, campaigns are sometimes held to turn off city lights for a certain period of time. This allows you to see the stars and moon more clearly. I personally participated in these efforts and realized once again the beauty of nature and the importance of environmental conservation.

Communication through moon viewing

Moon viewing is a great opportunity to bond with family, friends, and the local community. I was able to have many wonderful encounters and interactions by watching the moon with the people I met during my travels. Even in modern times, moon viewing has become an important cultural event that brings people together.

Moon viewing is a traditional event that symbolizes autumn in Japan, but even in modern times, the ways to enjoy it continue to evolve. In the next part, I would like to talk about the beauty of Japan’s nature and culture that I felt through moon viewing, based on my own experiences.

Experience Japan’s nature and culture through moon viewing

Japan’s four seasons reflected in the moonlight

Japan has four distinct seasons, and each season presents a different atmosphere. Moon viewing is a symbolic event of autumn, and the beauty of the moon that colors the long autumn nights is something special that cannot be seen in any other season. In the many regions I visited during my travels, each region was illuminated by moonlight, creating magical scenery such as rice fields in the countryside, autumn leaves in the mountains, and quiet beaches.

A culture that coexists with nature

The custom of moon viewing itself reflects the Japanese people’s respect for nature. For example, the custom of decorating with evening primrose and pampas grass represents a uniquely Japanese sense of beauty that brings nature closer to us and gently embraces the changing seasons. In some regions, people express their appreciation for nature by offering offerings of freshly harvested rice and autumn flavors.

Fusion of tradition and modernity

Through moon viewing, I was able to get a sense of how traditional culture lives on in modern times. I’m always amazed by Japan’s flexibility and creativity, from ancient offerings such as Tsukimi Dango to new food culture such as the modern twist on the Tsukimi Burger. These can be said to symbolize Japan’s attitude of evolving to suit the new era while valuing its good old culture.

Preserving and transmitting local culture

At the local moon viewing events that I encountered during my travels, I felt that the history and culture of each region was passed down from generation to generation. Moon viewing also plays a role in passing on culture, with performances of traditional performing arts rooted in the region and time for storytelling by local people. These cultural activities also provide visitors with an opportunity to deeply understand the history of the region.

dialogue with nature

Ultimately, moon viewing provides us with a precious time to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and interact with nature. In front of the beauty of nature, you can feel the “now” that is often forgotten in daily life, and calm your mind. I have experienced moon viewing in various parts of Japan, and every time I have experienced it, I have reaffirmed the deep charm of Japan’s nature and culture.

It was an irreplaceable experience for me to be able to experience so much excitement and discoveries through the moon viewing event in this land of Japan where rich nature and culture coexist. This experience also leads to the unique customs and festivals surrounding moon viewing in each region, as described in the next chapter.

Unique moon viewing customs by region

Moon viewing traditions with a rich regional flavor

Japan has distinct moon viewing customs that vary from region to region. I have traveled to 47 prefectures, from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south, experiencing each region’s unique moon viewing traditions. For example, in Kyoto, an elegant court-style moon viewing event is held, and it is heart-warming to see the locals admiring the moon while reciting waka poems.

Against the backdrop of the rich nature of Tohoku

In the Tohoku region, there is a custom of viewing the moon along with rice fields where the ears of rice shine golden, and this is a symbol of wishing for a bountiful harvest. For example, in one town in Miyagi Prefecture, a moon viewing event is held as a harvest appreciation festival, and dishes made with local specialties are served. There, I was able to sense the strength of the bonds within the local community.

How to view the moon in the city

On the other hand, in large cities like Tokyo, moon viewing events held on the rooftops of buildings or in parks are becoming popular. In particular, moon viewing from the observation deck of Roppongi Hills is known as a new type of moon viewing experience that combines it with the night view. When I participated, I was overwhelmed by the unique beauty of the combination of moonlight and city lights.

Local festivals and moon viewing

Additionally, in many regions, moon viewing is combined with festivals, creating a unique culture. In Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, the “Osu Daido Townspeople Festival”, which is held in conjunction with moon viewing, is a historical festival that has been going on since the Edo period, and you can feel the atmosphere of good old Japan while looking at the moon.

Moon viewing that reflects the history of the area

In Okinawa, a “Moon Viewing Banquet” is held on August 15th according to the lunar calendar, when the moon god is celebrated. This custom, which has continued since the Ryukyu Kingdom era, is an important cultural heritage that conveys the unique history of Okinawa. When I visited, I was invited by the sound of the sanshin and had a valuable experience under the moonlight with the locals, experiencing a piece of history.

These regional moon viewing customs demonstrate that while Japan maintains a diverse culture, it values the sense of the seasons and reverence for nature that are shared by the entire nation. In the next chapter, I would like to summarize my moon viewing trip and share my impressions based on these experiences.

Summary and thoughts

At the end of the trip called moon viewing

For me, traveling through the tradition of moon viewing was more than just observing an event, it was a journey to rediscover the depth of Japan as a country. As I followed the moon-viewing customs that have taken root in each of the 47 prefectures, I was able to appreciate once again Japan’s diverse culture and natural beauty.

Japanese culture and the breath of nature

Moon viewing is a testament to the Japanese people’s history of living in harmony with nature and valuing the changing seasons. The moment I quietly gazed at the moon in the midst of rich nature gave me a sense of freedom from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, which I tend to forget, and gave me time for self-reflection. The customs of moon viewing in each region reflect the unique history and nature of each region, and strongly demonstrate Japan’s multifaceted nature.

Regional charm and the future of moon viewing

While participating in moon viewing events in various places, I felt the importance of the values held by local communities and the culture passed down from our ancestors. It’s a beautiful time for everyone from children to adults to come together and share. These experiences give me strong hope that the moon viewing event will continue to develop as an event that symbolizes Japan’s beautiful four seasons.

conclusion of my journey

I would be happy if I could convey the charm of moon viewing through this blog. By viewing the moon on a beautiful autumn night in Japan, you will be able to calm your mind, experience the beauty of nature, and reaffirm the richness of Japanese culture. It would be my greatest pleasure if my trip sparked your imagination about moon viewing and made you want to visit Japan for yourself.

Lastly, all the moon viewing scenery I saw was like a beautiful painting. However, each one has a different story and culture, and I realized once again that it was a valuable experience that allowed me to get closer to Japan’s rich traditions. If you have a chance, please try experiencing Japan’s moon viewing at least once. It will surely be a special time that will remain in your heart.

Kasumi point

Kyoto Prefecture – Moon viewing at Kyoto Imperial Palace

Kasumi Point: Kyoto is a city with strong traditional Japanese culture, and there is a culture of viewing the moon during the long autumn nights. Particularly at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the elegant moon viewing that was once held in the imperial palace is still being recreated, and visitors are captivated by the atmosphere of admiring the moon while composing Japanese poems. Events such as gagaku performances that give a sense of the historical background are sometimes held.

Miyagi Prefecture – Moon viewing with rice fields

Kasumi Point: Moon viewing, which takes place in the countryside of Miyagi Prefecture, symbolizes Japan’s rural culture, which coexists with the rich nature. The golden color of the ears of rice and the bright moon shining in the autumn sky reflect the hearts of people who wish for a rich harvest. The moon viewing, which is unique to this region and is accompanied by dishes made with local specialties, is an event that brings the community together.

Tokyo – City moon viewing

Kasumi Point: In big cities like Tokyo, moon viewing is enjoyed in a modern style. For example, moon viewing from Roppongi Hills is an event where you can enjoy the dynamic contrast between the night view of the city and the full moon. Stargazing parties and moon-themed art events are sometimes held on the roof of the building and at special moon viewing spots.

Aichi Prefecture – Osu Daido Townspeople Festival and Moon Viewing

Kasumi Point: In Osu, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, moon viewing is held in conjunction with the Osu Daido Machinin Festival, a traditional local event. At this festival, which has been going on since the Edo period, you can enjoy the moon along with the good old Japanese townscape, and experience a moon viewing experience that is steeped in history and culture. The appeal is that you can experience the history and art of the area.

Okinawa Prefecture – Moon viewing based on the lunar calendar

Kasumi Point: Moon viewing in Okinawa is characterized by the “Moon Viewing Banquet,” which is held around August 15th according to the lunar calendar. This event, which has been going on since the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom, gives you a sense of Okinawa’s rich cultural heritage, and the tradition of worshiping the moon god has been passed down to this day. Admiring the moon with the locals to the sound of the sanshin is a moon viewing custom unique to Okinawa that you won’t find anywhere else.