Autumn is an incredible time of the year to visit Japan, with cooler temperatures and breathtaking fall foliage. Just like every season, there are many colourful autumn events that celebrate tradition and nature. One lesser-known but important festival that you should experience is the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Every September, the Japanese people come together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival under the full moon. (Photo from: PhotoAC)
Also known as Tsukimi, this Japanese custom of moon-viewing takes place all over the country during autumn. The time-honoured tradition of Tsukimi has a history of more than 1,000 years, and is one of the oldest festivals still celebrated in Japan. From traditional rituals held at shrines to exuberant events that include music and poetry, Tsukimi is an unforgettable experience for culture-lovers.
The exact date of the festival varies depending on the lunar calendar, but it always takes place in September. This year, it falls on 17 September 2024. If you are travelling to Japan during autumn, here are 3 recommended spots to enjoy this moon-viewing tradition!
Daikakuji Temple, Kyoto Prefecture
Originally built as a villa for the imperial family at the start of the Heian period, Daikakuji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kyoto. With a legacy tracing back to over 1,200 years, this revered site is steeped in history and cultural significance.
Daikakuji Temple is also known for its scenic beauty, especially during spring and autumn when nature bursts into a kaleidoscope of colours.
Within the huge temple grounds is the famed Osawa Pond. Measuring about one kilometer in circumference and surrounded by greenery and Buddhist statues, Osawa Pond is stunning both in the day and at night.
The Osawa Pond is the oldest man-made pond in Japan and is designated a national scenic spot. (Photo from: ttshr1970, CC BY 3.0)
Every year in September, Daikakuji Temple hosts a Kangetsu full moon festival on the Osawa Pond. Visitors who secured a spot in this ticketed event (15 to 17 September 2024) can participate in traditions that were enjoyed by aristocrats in the past, such as savouring matcha tea on the pavilion of the main hall and taking an idyllic cruise around the pond.
On clear autumn nights, one can admire two views of the moon – shining brightly in the sky and reflected on the gleaming surface of the water.
Himeiji Castle, Hyogo Prefecture
The spectacular Himeiji Castle is one of Japan’s most impressive feudal castles. Standing tall atop Himeyama hill, the grand castle is both a designated National Treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With its elegant white walls and elaborate castle defence system, this beautifully-maintained castle is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
Himeiji Castle is renowned for being one of the finest surviving examples of early 17th-century Japanese castle architecture. (Photo from: Himeji City Photo Library)
On the night of the harvest full moon, visitors have the rare opportunity to see the elegant silhouette of Himeji Castle lit up under the brilliant full moon. The much-anticipated annual moon-viewing festival is held at the spacious lawn of Sannomaru Square. Eager people gather to admire the castle aglow under the full moon, alongside lively Tsukimi festivities.
A large stage is set up for a rousing lineup of traditional performances, such as Taiko drumming, poetry readings and sword dancing. Grab some delicious Tsukimi dango (special mochi balls for mid-autumn) at the food stalls for an authentic festival experience.
The beautiful gardens of Koko-en will also be illuminated as the sun sets, just in time to gaze at the bright harvest moon.
Sankeien Garden, Kanagawa Prefecture
Located in the south of Yokohama City, the beautiful Japanese-style garden of Sankeien is renowned for its exquisite landscaping and well-preserved historic buildings. Every season brings a new look to the sprawling garden, which blooms with plum, cherry, and lotus flowers in various months.
Autumn is especially spectacular when the maple trees colour the garden in hues of red and gold.
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Sankeien Garden, first opened to the public in 1906, is designated a national site of scenic beauty with many traditional buildings in its premises. (Photo from: Sankeien Garden Preservation Society)
After a three-year hiatus, Sankeien Garden will once again be hosting its long-awaited annual Moon Viewing Party to celebrate the harvest moon festival.
From 14 to 18 September 2024, visitors can enjoy a special night view of the gardens in the cool of the autumn evenings.
The symbol of Sankeien Garden is a three-storey pagoda that was built in 1457 and relocated in 1914. (Photo from: Sankeien Hoshoukai Foundation)
During the event, some of the ancient buildings within the garden grounds will be illuminated, including its iconic three-storey pagoda, which is the oldest structure in Sankeien. Besides enjoying the moonlit night stroll, do not miss the daily concert of traditional and modern music performances that will be held in front of Rinshunkaku building.
Bonus: Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo
Soaring high into the skies, the 634-meter-tall Tokyo Skytree is named one of Japan’s Top 100 Most Beautiful Moon Views.
From the Tembo Deck at a height of 350 metres, visitors can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the entire Kanto region and also see the beautiful autumn moon very clearly. This observation deck is covered in floor-to-ceiling glass for a 360-degree panorama.
Tokyo has a great moon-viewing spot in the heart of the city as well. (Photo from: @tsuzimo via @tokyoskytree_official)
It is also a great time to observe the full moon through a high-definition telescope from the 450-metre-high Tembo Galleria!
Tokyo has a great moon-viewing spot in the heart of the city as well. (Photo from: @tokyoskytree_official)
Tsukimi festivals offer travellers a glimpse into many aspects of Japan’s history and culture, and also a chance to rub shoulders with the locals. Do remember to check out each location’s event page before making your way down!