Tsukimi, also known as Otsukimi, meaning ‘moon-viewing’ is a traditional festival that celebrates the harvest and autumn moon in Japan. As such, the exact date shifts every year, but is typically around the middle of September or early October. This year the holiday period will be held from September 17th to the 20th.
1. History & Origins
Tsukimi refers to the Japanese tradition of holding viewing parties to celebrate the harvest moon. It is thought to have originated during the Heian period (794-1185), among Japanese aristocrats influenced by the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival. However, by the end of the Edo period (1603-1868), the custom had spread to all social classes.
The holiday is a time for the Japanese to reflect on gratitude for abundance and their hopes for future prosperity. It is also heavily associated with the Japanese folk tale of the Moon Rabbit pounding mochi.
Check out these tours of famous sites from Japan’s history:
- Kyoto Must-See Spots 1 Day Private Tour
- Nara Park Tour – English Guided Sightseeing Bus
- Ise Grand Shrine (Inner & Outer Shrine) Half-Day Bus Tour
- Nikko 1 Day Guided Tour from Tokyo
- Shirakawa-go Village & Takayama UNESCO 1 Day Tour from Nagoya
2. Traditional Customs
Japanese people traditionally gathered on the evening of the full moon at locations with clear views of the sky and decorated the area with Japanese pampas grass which symbolizes a plentiful harvest and is believed to ward off evil spirits, before offering Tsukimi dishes and sake to the Moon, praying for an abundant harvest. Tsukimi dishes typically included white rice dumplings, called Tsukimi dango, to symbolize the moon, along with seasonal foods such as taro, edamame, chestnuts, and sweet potatoes. After admiring the full moon, participants often recited poetry and created music, drawing inspiration from the celestial sight.
3. Modern Celebrations
Modern celebrations of Tsukimi reflect a blend of traditional customs and contemporary practices, making the festival accessible and enjoyable for people of all backgrounds.
Many Japanese landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree host public Tsukimi celebrations. Cities, parks, and botanical gardens also frequently organize moon-viewing events that include live music, traditional tea ceremonies, and food stalls offering Tsukimi-themed treats. Many of these modern celebrations incorporate traditional activities such as poetry readings and music performances. This allows participants to engage with the cultural heritage of Tsukimi while enjoying the beauty of the moon.
If large crowds aren’t your thing – families and friends often come together for moon-viewing parties, enjoying picnics under the full moon. People often arrange these moonlit picnics in parks or near water bodies, creating a serene environment to appreciate the full moon.
Check out these other fun activities to do in Tokyo on Tsukimi:
- Tokyo Private Walking Tour & Calligraphy Experience with Licensed Guide
- Tokyo Private Walking Tour & Japanese Traditional Performance with Dinner
- Tokyo Private Walking Tour & Kimono Experience with Licensed Guide
- Japanese Traditional Tea Ceremony Experience at Ginza Chazen in Tokyo (Arriving Soon!)
Check out these other fun activities to do in Osaka & Kyoto on Tsukimi:
- Osaka Castle Private Half Day Tour
- Osaka Private Walking Tour & Kimono Experience with Licensed Guide
- Kyoto Private Walking Tour & Kimono Experience with Licensed Guide
- Prayer Beads Bracelet Making Experience in Kyoto
- Kyoto Ancient Temple 1 Day Tour With Matcha Experience from Osaka/Kyoto
We hope this guide has helped you understand the Tsukimi holiday and traditions celebrated in Japan. To discover more of the best things to do in Japan, visit Trazy.com, Your Travel Shop for Asia!
