Tsukimi/Otsukimi (月見/お月見), also known as Jugoya (fifteenth night), is a traditional Japanese moon-viewing festival that takes place every autumn to celebrate and gaze upon the beauty of the full moon. This centuries-old tradition is still observed today on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, which usually falls in mid-to-late September.
Year | Date |
2024 | September 17th to 20th |
2025 | October 6th to 9th |
2026 | September 25th to 28th |
History of Tsukimi
The origins of Tsukimi date back to the Heian period (794-1185 AD), when Japanese aristocrats would hold moon-viewing parties to admire the beauty of the full moon and compose poetry. The custom was influenced by the Chinese through the Mid-Autumn Festival, having been imported somewhere from the Nara period (710-794 AD) which also celebrated the full moon as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Over time, Tsukimi evolved into a distinctly Japanese tradition, incorporating elements of its native Shintoism, Buddhism, and folk customs.
Traditions and customs
During Tsukimi, families and friends gather to admire the full moon, often in a park, garden, or other scenic spot. The festival is typically celebrated with a series of traditional activities, including:
- Moon viewing: The main event of Tsukimi is of course, gazing at the full moon. Participants will sometimes bring telescopes, binoculars or simply sit back and enjoy the view (most people do the latter).
- Food and drink: Traditional Tsukimi foods include mochi (rice cakes), tsukimi-dango (moon-viewing dumplings), Tsukimi udon and sake. These offerings are often presented to the moon as a symbol of gratitude and respect.
- Poetry and music: In the spirit of the Heian period, many people choose to compose and recite waka poetry, play traditional instruments, or sing songs under the light of the full moon.
- Offerings to the moon: Participants will often make offerings to the moon, such as susuki (pampas grass), incense, candles, or small tokens of appreciation along with the food mentioned previously.
That said, most people just gather with friends or family and share food and drinks. It’s more of an excuse to get together and unwind than it is a high brow event.
It’s also important to note that Tsukimi parties are usually held regardless of whether or not the full moon is visible. The terms for those are Mugetsu (無月) for when there’s no moon and Ugetsu (雨月) when it’s rainy.
Symbolism and significance
Tsukimi is more than just a festive celebration, it’s also a time for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual connection. The full moon is seen as a symbol of:
- Abundance and prosperity: The full moon represents the abundance and riches of the harvest season.
- Good fortune and luck: In Japanese culture, the full moon is believed to bring good luck and fortune.
- Spiritual connection: Tsukimi provides an opportunity for people to connect with nature, the universe, and their own spirituality.
Modern-day celebrations
While traditional Tsukimi celebrations continue to be held, modern day adaptations have also emerged and gained popularity. Many cities and some towns in Japan now host large-scale moon-viewing events, featuring live music, food stalls, and cultural performances because why not? These larger events attract visitors from neighboring prefectures and foreign tourists eager to experience the beauty and magic of Tsukimi.
And of course, when have mega corps not taken advantage of a good festival? Companies like Mos Burger, Lotteria and McDonald’s have special Tsukimi menus in Japan during the period but be aware that most of those offerings are your standard burgers with a fried egg and a different sauce, usually teriyaki. In fact, a lot of the burger offerings are named Teritama burgers or Teriyaki and egg burgers.
Conclusion
Tsukimi is a unique festival that celebrates the beauty of the full moon in a rather Japanese way. Whether you’re in Japan or simply interested in experiencing Japanese traditions from home, Tsukimi has you stop and appreciate some of the the country’s history, spirituality, and sense of community.
So why not join in the celebration and gaze up at the full moon with a sense of wonder and appreciation? You work hard enough to deserve a break once in a while.
FAQ
What is Tsukimi?
Tsukimi is a moon-gazing festival. It’s a period of time where people take time out of their busy day-to-day and appreciate the beauty of the full moon in relative silence. Well, some people make it to be a small party nowadays.
When is Tsukimi?
Tsukimi takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar which is October 6th in 2025 and September 25th in 2026.
Where is Tsukimi celebrated?
Tsukimi is officially celebrated in Japan but its influencing festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival along with the other branching celebrations are celebrated around Asia.
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