September
Enjoy the beauty of the harvest moon!
September signals the arrival of autumn. The Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) festival celebrates the harvest moon, with people enjoying traditional rice dumplings while admiring the night sky. Seasonal delicacies start to appear, marking the beginning of Japan’s beloved "food season."
Enjoy the beauty of the harvest moon!
Japan in Nagatsuki (September)
A season to admire the moon. 🌕 September, known as Nagatsuki, marks the beginning of autumn in Japan. As the air cools and the skies clear, people celebrate Tsukimi (moon viewing), offering susuki grass and rice dumplings while appreciating the beauty of the full moon and giving thanks for the harvest.
Japan and Susuki (Silvergrass)
A symbol of the harvest moon. 🌾 Susuki grass is an essential decoration for Tsukimi. Resembling rice stalks, it represents a prayer for a bountiful harvest. It is also believed to ward off evil spirits and is often displayed alongside tsukimi dango (moon-viewing dumplings). The sight of susuki swaying in the autumn breeze adds to the season’s charm.
Japan and the Legend of the Moon Rabbit
A beloved lunar myth. 🐇 In Japan, people have long believed that a rabbit lives on the moon, pounding rice cakes. This legend comes from the moon’s markings, which resemble a rabbit making mochi. The tale is popular across Asia and is often shared during Tsukimi celebrations.
