Tsukimi (Moon-viewing Festival)
Tsukimi(月見) or the Moon-Viewing Festival, is a traditional Japanese event celebrating the beauty of the harvest moon, typically in September or October.
The tradition dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) and is associated with giving thanks for the autumn harvest. On Tsukimi night, people gather to admire the full moon, often decorating with pampas grass (susuki) and offering seasonal foods such as tsukimi dango (round rice dumplings), taro, and chestnuts to honor the moon. It’s a time for reflection, appreciation of nature, and a chance to wish for a bountiful future harvest.
I found a beautiful bouquet at a florist just a few days ago, themed around Tsukimi. The flowers, shaped to resemble the moon and dango, were round and cute, so I gave it as a gift to a friend.
Happy moon viewing day!
