O-tsukimi (Moon Viewing)
During the harvest moon, Japan features many special lunar viewing events. One such event is called "O-tsukimi". This custom may have begun due to the brilliant full moon at this time of year. Moon viewing first appeared in China and came to Japan in the Heian Period. Unlike today, simply gazing at the natural landscape was considered to be entertainment in those days. Nobles would gather to gaze at the moon and improvise short poems in competition with one another while enjoying luxurious banquets.
The moon viewing ritual ties religious beliefs in the moon with the harvest festival where offerings are made to the moon. Areas are decorated with pampas grass and clovers to protect against evil spirits and sacred sake and moon viewing dumplings are offered as good luck charms to bring health and happiness. These are events are not only about admiring the beautiful moon but are opportunities to pray and give thanks for a good harvest.
Recommended Temples and Shrines for O-tsukimi Events
