As summer slowly gives way to autumn, the evenings begin to feel a little cooler and the days gradually become shorter. In Japan, this is a beautiful time of year to look up at the night sky and appreciate one of nature’s simplest pleasures – the moon.
On the 25th of September 2026, people in Japan will celebrate Tsukimi (月見), meaning 'moon viewing'. It is a traditional occasion for admiring the beautiful autumn moon and giving thanks for the harvest.
For me, Tsukimi is one of those lovely Japanese traditions that does not need to be complicated. It is simply about taking a little time to appreciate the moon, enjoy some seasonal food and welcome the arrival of autumn.
What is Tsukimi?
Tsukimi has a history going back many centuries. The custom of appreciating the autumn moon is thought to have been introduced to Japan from China during the Heian period (794-1185), and it gradually became part of Japanese culture. Over time, it also became closely connected with agriculture and the autumn harvest.
The date of Tsukimi changes each year because the tradition follows the old lunar calendar. In Japan, the autumn moon has traditionally been considered particularly beautiful, and Chūshū no Meigetsu, meaning the 'beautiful mid-autumn moon', is the main occasion for moon viewing.
You don't need to hold a big celebration. Traditionally, families might simply prepare a small display near a window or in a place where the moon can be seen, then spend some quiet time appreciating it.
Tsukimi Dango and Pampas Grass
When Japanese people, including me, picture a traditional Japanese Tsukimi celebration, we imagine a small arrangement of tsukimi dango – round white rice dumplings – placed alongside susuki, Japanese pampas grass.
The round shape of the dango represents the full moon, while seasonal fruits and vegetables may also be offered as a way of expressing gratitude for the autumn harvest.
Susuki has long been associated with autumn and is an important part of Tsukimi decorations. Its tall, delicate stems make a beautiful display, especially when gently moving in the evening breeze.
I love the simplicity of this traditional arrangement. A few white dango, some autumn grasses and the moon shining outside the window are enough to create a very peaceful scene.
(Tsukimi dango and pampa grass)
Can You See the Rabbit in the Moon?
There is another charming symbol that you will often see in Japanese pictures of Tsukimi – a rabbit.
If you have ever wondered why a Japanese illustration might show a rabbit sitting beneath the moon, surrounded by pampas grass and dango, the answer lies in the markings on the Moon itself.
In Japan, the darker patterns on the surface of the Moon have traditionally been imagined as a rabbit making mochi, the sticky rice cakes that are an important part of Japanese culture. The image of the rabbit pounding mochi has become closely associated with the Moon and is particularly popular around Tsukimi.
Interestingly, the Moon can look different depending on where you are in the world. In Japan, its markings are traditionally seen as a rabbit pounding mochi, while in the UK, many people see the 'Man in the Moon'. The markings are the same, but they appear at a different angle, creating these wonderfully different interpretations.
I think this is one of the most fascinating little details of Japanese culture. People in different parts of the world have looked at the same Moon and imagined different shapes and stories. In Japan, the rabbit has become such a familiar symbol that the rabbit, Moon and pampas grass are often drawn together to represent the feeling of Tsukimi.
(Blue Rabbit Japanese Chopstick Rest)
Tsukimi on the Dinner Table
The Moon has also found its way into Japanese food. You may have come across dishes called tsukimi udon or tsukimi soba. These often feature an egg, with its round golden yolk representing the Moon.
You may also see tsukimi burgers appearing on Japanese fast-food menus around this time of year. A fried egg is added to the burger, with its round golden yolk creating the appearance of a little Moon. It is a fun modern twist on the traditional Tsukimi theme and has become a popular seasonal favourite in Japan.
The word tsukimi can therefore appear in many different foods, particularly around autumn. It is a lovely example of how seasonal imagery is woven into Japanese food culture.
(Tsukimi Burger)
Enjoying Tsukimi at Home
You don't need to recreate an elaborate Japanese celebration to enjoy Tsukimi. Why not place some pampas grass or autumn flowers in a vase, prepare a few small sweets or dango, and enjoy a cup of tea while looking at the moon?
You could also light some Japanese incense and create a quiet corner where you can relax for a few minutes. In our busy everyday lives, these small moments of calm can be surprisingly precious.
If the evening is clear tomorrow, on the 25th of September, take a moment to look up at the sky. You may be in the UK rather than Japan, but you can still enjoy the same beautiful moon.
For me, that is part of the charm of Japanese seasonal traditions. They remind us to slow down and notice the simple things around us – the changing colours of the seasons, the sound of autumn insects, a beautiful meal, or the soft light of the Moon.
Make yourself a cup of tea, find a comfortable spot by the window, and simply look up.
Sometimes, you don't need anything more than the Moon...