Somehow, summer always seems to disappear faster than expected.
The evenings become a little cooler, the light starts to soften, and suddenly September is already here. In Japan, this is also the season of Tsukimi（月見） — the tradition of admiring the autumn moon.
What is Tsukimi?
Tsukimi literally means “moon viewing.”
The tradition is especially associated with Jūgoya（十五夜）, the fifteenth night of the eighth month of the traditional lunar calendar. On this evening, people admire the autumn moon, which has long been considered especially beautiful at this time of year.
The custom came to Japan centuries ago and gradually became connected not only with appreciating the moon, but also with the autumn harvest.
Rather than being a loud celebration, Tsukimi is usually a gentle seasonal observance — a moment to notice the changing season and appreciate what autumn brings.
How is Tsukimi celebrated?
One of the most recognisable symbols of Tsukimi is susuki（薄）, Japanese pampas grass.
Its shape resembles ripening rice plants, and it is traditionally displayed as part of the seasonal decoration.
Another familiar element is tsukimi dango（月見団子） — small, round rice dumplings offered to the moon. Their round shape is often associated with the full moon.
Seasonal foods such as taro, chestnuts and edamame may also be prepared, depending on the region and family tradition.
And, of course, the most important part is very simple:
looking at the moon.
People may sit by a window, on a veranda or outside, enjoying the evening together with tea, sweets and seasonal decorations.
More than just looking at the moon
What I like about Tsukimi is that it is not only about the moon itself.
It is also about noticing the season.
The cooler air.
The grasses moving in the evening wind.
Autumn foods beginning to appear.
The changing colours and light.
Japanese seasonal traditions often give us a reason to pay attention to small changes that might otherwise pass unnoticed.
And Tsukimi is a beautiful example of that.
Celebrate Tsukimi with Biyori
This autumn, I will also be holding a Tsukimi-themed tea gathering where we can enjoy the season together.
Alongside matcha and Japanese sweets, we will explore Tsukimi and Japanese seasonal culture through a few fun, hands-on activities.
It will be a relaxed way to experience Japanese culture, enjoy tea together and welcome autumn under the theme of the moon.
If you would like to join, I would be very happy to welcome you.
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