Tsukimi: Contemplation of the Full Moon in Japan

In Japan, autumn is marked by a fascinating and poetic tradition: the contemplation of the full moon, calledtsukimi( This custom, which dates back centuries, is still celebrated throughout the country today. More than just a celestial observation, thetsukimiis a moment of gratitude to nature and a tribute to harvests. Between offerings, decorations and festivities, this tradition offers a unique immersion in Japanese culture and its deep connection to nature cycles.

Origin of Tsukimi

The tradition oftsukimifound its roots in China, under the Tang Dynasty (618-907), before being adopted in Japan. It appears in the archipelago from the period ofNara (710-794)and develops during the periodHeian (794-1185). Originally, the Japanese nobility celebrated the full moon by organizing elegant evenings where one played music and composed poems admiring the lunar reflection on the water.

During the periodd-Edo (1603-1868)This custom became popular among the people. Thetsukimithen became a celebration of harvests, with offerings made at the moon to express gratitude and hope for future abundant harvests. Today, many families and communities continue to perpetuate this tradition throughout Japan.

The full moon and the sun-solar calendar

Prior to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in 1873, Japan used a calendarLunar solar, based on moon cycles. In this system, autumn extended theseventh to ninth months, andFull moon of the fifteenth day of the eighth month(jûgoya no tsukimi, ,

This full moon, also called“chûshû no meigetsu” (中literally means “the beautiful moon of mid-fall”. It now corresponds to a date varying between September and October,2024, it will take place on 17 September.

The rituals and symbols of the Tsukimi

During thetsukimi, several symbolic elements are arranged as an offering to honor the moon and celebrate harvests. Among them are:

• Tsukimi’s dangoThese sweet rice pellets, often piled in pyramids, are one of the most emblematic dishes of this celebration. They symbolize gratitude for crops and future prosperity.
• The susuki (These feathered reeds, similar to pampa ears, are placed near windows or altars to represent strength and resistance against natural elements.
• Seasonal fruits and vegetables: Japanese often offer sweet potatoes, chestnuts and squash, recalling the importance of autumn crops.

How the Tsukimi is celebrated today

Although modern Japan has changed,tsukimiremains a festival rooted in national culture. Here are some ways it is celebrated across the country:

Temples and shrines in celebration

Many temples and shrines organize special events for thetsukimi. In Kyoto,Shrine ShimugamoandDaikaku-ji templepropose ceremonies where one can admire the full moon in music, often accompanied by koto concerts (traditional Japanese instrument). TheSumiyoshi Taisha sanctuaryandSanctuary Meiji JinguTokyo is also famous for their celebrations.

Cruises under the full moon

In some regions, traditional boats sail on lakes and rivers to allow passengers to admire the reflection of the moon on the water, thus taking on an ancient aristocratic practice. TheLake Biwa, near Kyoto, is a popular place for this unique experience.

Special offers in restaurants and cafes

Every year, fast food chains and coffee shops offer special menus in honour of thetsukimi. Among the most famous are theTsukimi Burger, a hamburger with a flat egg representing the full moon, marketed by McDonald’s Japan.

Tsukimi through Japan

How to celebratetsukimivaries slightly from region to region.

• In Kansai, the inhabitants are used to celebratingimotsukimiThe sweet potato (imo) is honoured as the main offering.
• OkinawaThere is a local version of thetsukimicalledJūgoya Odori, where traditional dances are organized in homage to the moon.
• In Hokkaido, the autumn nights being cooler, the Japanese take advantage of thetsukimiby settling near a brasero to warm up while contemplating the moon.

Tsukimi and other lunar festivals in Asia

ThetsukimiJapanese share similarities with theMid-Autumn Festivalcelebrated in China, Taiwan and Vietnam. The latter is also marked by offerings, lanterns and tasting of the famousMoon cakes(yue bing). Although rituals vary from country to country, the central idea remains the same: honor the moon and express gratitude and hope.

Tsukimi is a poetic celebration that reflects the deep link between Japanese culture and nature. Although it has evolved over the centuries, this tradition remains a moment of contemplation and sharing, where the simple act of raising eyes to the moon becomes a unique cultural and spiritual experience. Whether you are attending a ceremony in a temple, enjoying a tsukimi dango or enjoying a peaceful evening under the starry sky, this celebration reminds you of the importance of taking time to admire the beauty of the world around you.

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