【Japan Independent Travel】The Golden Wind Caresses the Moon – Experience the Boldness and Restraint of Autumn

    The weather turns a bit cooler, and the autumn breeze begins to blow. We Chinese celebrate the arrival of autumn with the Mid-Autumn Festival on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, while other countries have their own unique ways of welcoming the season. Now, follow our narrative as we explore how our neighbor across the sea—Japan—celebrates autumn in its distinctive manner.

    The moon on the 15th and 16th days of the eighth lunar month is known in Japan as the “Chestnut Full Moon.” The tradition of moon viewing is said to have been introduced to Japan from China during the Heian period (8th to 12th centuries). Back then, it was an activity enjoyed by the upper class. Similar to the custom in China, the Japanese also gather with family under the eaves of traditional homes to gaze at the moon. However, they replace our osmanthus flowers with pampas grass, and mooncakes with tsukimi dango (moon-viewing dumplings).

    Nowadays, however, moon viewing activities on the 15th day of the eighth month are becoming less common in Japan. Kōdai-ji Temple in Kyoto still preserves the tradition of holding moon-viewing banquets. The temple’s “Ōsawa Pond” is one of Japan’s three most famous spots for moon gazing. With a cool evening breeze blowing, watch the bright moon cast its reflection like a jade plate on the pond’s surface, and enjoy some traditional Japanese sweets for a truly pleasant experience. In ancient times, it was just such an atmosphere that inspired poetic verses, music, and song. You can also take a boat ride on the lake to relive the classic joy of moon viewing. On the Mid-Autumn Festival day, you can also join a lantern riddle event and try your hand at guessing puzzles.