Exploring Otsukimi - The Full Moon Festival in Japan

1. What is Ostukimi?

Otsukimi (お月見), also known as "Moon Viewing Festival" is one of the oldest and most beautiful traditions in Japan. This festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month (usually falling between late September and early October in the Gregorian calendar) to admire the beauty of the fullest and brightest moon of the year. Otsukimi is not only an occasion to appreciate the natural scenery but also a time to cherish the deep cultural and spiritual values of the Japanese people.

Source: All About

2. Origins and Significance

The origins of Otsukimi date back to the Heian period (794-1185), influenced by Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival traditions. The Japanese aristocracy of the time would gather to admire the beauty of the full moon, compose poetry, and reflect on the transient nature of life. Over time, these traditions filtered down to the general populace, evolving into a widespread celebration of both nature and culture.

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3. When and How It’s Celebrated

The celebration of the moon-viewing festival typically takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar. Also referred to as Jugoya (十五夜) in Japanese, the date for Tsukimi changes every year but usually falls in mid-September or early October on the modern solar calendar.

During Otsukimi, people gather in gardens, temples, or their homes to admire the full moon. Traditional offerings such as rice dumpling ( Tsukimi dango), seasonal produce like chestnuts and persimmons, and pampas grass (Susuki) are placed on a small altar facing the moon. The dumplings symbolize the moon, while the pampas grass represents the rice plants. These offerings are believed to bring good fortune and a bountiful harvest.

4. Moon-Viewing Decorations

Decorations play a significant role in Tsukimi celebrations. Some of the essential items include:

*Tsukimi Dango

Source: All About

These are placed on a special stand or altar and arranged in a pyramid shape. People usually display 15 cakes to symbolize the full moon day in the lunar calendar, though in some areas, 12 cakes represent the 12 months of the year. Once everything is set up, the plate of cakes is placed on the porch or by a window, where you can get the best view of the moon.

*Susuki grass 

Source: All About

Bundles of susuki grass (Japanese pampas grass) are displayed as part of the decorations. The tall, elegant grass resembles the moon’s surface and is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.

*Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh produce, including sweet potatoes, chestnuts, and persimmons, are often displayed. These items symbolize the harvest and the bounty of the season.

5. Legend of the Moon Rabbit

As you admire the full moon during Tsukimi, you might notice something intriguing—a shadowy figure on the moon’s surface. According to Japanese legend, this is the Moon Rabbit (Tsuki no Usagi), a symbol of selflessness and kindness.

The story goes that a deity, disguised as a beggar, asked three animals—a monkey, a fox, and a rabbit—for food. While the monkey and fox offered their finds, the rabbit, having nothing to give, leapt into a fire to sacrifice himself. The deity, touched by the rabbit’s noble act, saved him and placed him on the moon to live forever. It’s said that if you look closely, you can see the Moon Rabbit pounding mochi (rice cakes) with a mallet.

Source: かわいいイラスト

Whether you're new to Japan or have been living here for years, Tsukimi is a wonderful tradition to embrace. It’s a moment to pause, appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and perhaps indulge in some tasty treats. So why not gather some friends, head to a scenic spot, and enjoy the full moon this Tsukimi season? And if you do, don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments—we’d love to hear how you celebrated!

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Source:

Oggi.jp