Tsukimi (Moon Viewing)
The Japanese harvest moon festival, viewing the full moon and offering thanks.
Tsukimi (Jugoya) is held on the 15th night of the 8th month of the traditional Japanese lunisolar calendar, usually between mid-September and early October.
When Is Tsukimi (Moon Viewing)?
Tsukimi (Jugoya) is held on the 15th night of the 8th month of the traditional Japanese lunisolar calendar, usually between mid-September and early October.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
Tsukimi is a moon-viewing custom, adopted by the Heian court from the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, that gives thanks for the harvest under the full moon of the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. The tradition developed a distinctly Japanese aesthetic of quiet contemplation.
How It Is Observed
Displaying silver grass (susuki), moon viewing dango stacked in a pyramid as offerings, sake, autumn vegetables, outdoor moon viewing, poetry gatherings.