All TopicsNewsCultureJapanese Snacks & CandyFood & DrinkTravelEntertainmentMember Spotlight
TokyoTreat Japanese Snacks BlogTsukimi – Japan’s Traditional Moon Viewing Festival

Tsukimi – Japan’s Traditional Moon Viewing Festival

Tanner SchroederTanner Schroeder
Published Time
Posted on 
September 10, 2020
Modified Time
Updated last 
June 21, 2022

Tsukimi, which literally translates as “moon-viewing” in Japanese, is an Autumn festivital with ancient tradition.

Dating all the way back to the Heinen period (794-1185) – the Tsukimi moon festival takes place on the 15th day of the 8th month, and 13th day of the 9th month of the traditional Japanese calendar. While Japan now follows the Gregorian calendar – these days fall between mid September and October, when the moon is at its fullest and most beautiful state. 

Originally acting as a way to show thanks for a successful harvest season, and express hopes for next year’s bounty, the manner in which the Japanese people celebrate Tsukimi has actually remained largely intact over thousands of years. Back in the day, Tsukimi was popular among common folk and aristocrats alike, who all enjoyed gathering around tranquil bodies of water to soak in the full moon’s reflection. Such poignant  moments often inspired the writing and reciting of beautifully fleeting tanka poetry. 

Moon viewings often took place on boats in order to get an ideal view of the moon's reflection on the water during Tsukimi festivities.

source

Nowadays though, moon viewing parties in Japan are often focused on gathering together with friends and family. During this time, it’s rather common to see Japanese homes and temples decorated with pampas grass, or suzuki, to mark the occasion with it’s simplistic beauty – much like the full moon itself. 

Of course, there’s no such thing as a proper Japanese celebration without some delicious traditional food! 

Tsukimi dango is probably the most iconic and traditional food offered during typical moon viewing festivities. Made simply from Japanese rice flour and water, Tsukimi dango is soft and chewy in texture, with a very slight sweetness. Tsukimi dango is also traditionally used as one of the various offerings to the moon you can find in front of Japanese homes or temples during the celebration. 

Due to their seasonality, Japanese sweet potatoes are also a very popular Tsukimi offering. When roasted, the sweet potatoes take on a deeply, caramelized flavor. Topped with butter and a bit of sugar, their soft and silky texture makes for a fantastic dessert that warms you up on a cool Autumn night!

Traditional food - Tsukimi dango and pampas grass are offerings to the moon!

source

For something more substantial and savory, Tsukimi Udon and Tsukimi Soba are classic options. Both dishes are prepared in an identical manner. Dashi, a Japanese fish stock, is combined over a low simmer with soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), and just a pinch of salt. Your choice of either thick and chewy Udon or earthy buckwheat-based Soba noodles soak up the soup with a raw egg on top! The raw egg is what gives the dish it’s name, representing the full moon on a crisp Autumn night. Once the egg is mixed up, it adds an entirely new dimension to the dish, giving the soup a rich body and satisfying finish. A garnish of Japanese green onion, negi, gives the dish a bit of color and fresh bite to bring balance to the dish. 

Tsukimi udon

source

Infact, nowadays you can find tons of Tsukimi variants of popular dishes. If there’s an egg on it – you can celebrate Tsukimi with it! Even McDonald’s gets in on the moon viewing festivities with a signature Tsukimi Burger. 

Now we’re hungry – and we can’t wait to celebrate Tsukimi here in Tokyo! Be sure to drop us a line if you’re planning a moon viewing party with your friends and family wherever you are in the world! 

Enjoy Delicious Japanese Candy And Snacks Every Month!

Enjoy Delicious Japanese Candy And Snacks Every Month!

Starting from $32.50 USD

Get TokyoTreat

Author avatar
Tanner Schroeder

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Articles

SunnyHills Aoyama at night.

SunnyHills and More: Five Unusual Buildings in Japan!

You’ll discover many unique buildings in Japan’s cities, often described as concrete jungles! Here are five buildings to check out!

March 27, 2024
Aibo, one of many popular Japanese robots. It's a silver dog.

Japanese Robots: Everything You Need to Know!

Japanese robots are famous for their cool designs, unique functions, and customer service! Here’s why they’re so unique!

March 22, 2024
A Japanese lantern near a cherry blossom tree.

The Japanese Lantern: Why Is It So Special?

The Japanese lantern is unique, illuminating festivals and everyday life with its warm glow and incredible designs.

March 15, 2024
Sakura Kinomoto with Kero chan in a tropical paradise.

Sakura Kinomoto and Amazing Anime Heroes with The Same Name!

While “Sakura” typically evokes images of Japan’s iconic flowers, it’s a popular name in anime! Learn about their journeys of self-discovery, friendship, and romance!

March 13, 2024
A woman wearing a bright pink kimono during hanami season.

Hanami Clothes: Best Ones to Wear for the Spring!

Look no further than traditional hanami clothing! It’s necessary for anyone wanting to dress in something special this spring season.  

March 06, 2024

International Women’s Day: A Talk with the Founder, Ayumi Chikamoto!

Founder Ayumi Chikamoto! She was able to give some insight into her career, her thoughts on Japanese food and culture, and TokyoTreat itself!

February 23, 2024
TokyoTreat
Subscription
PricingBeginner’s Guide to TokyoTreatUpcoming BoxPast boxes
Support & Information
FAQContactHelp CenterBlog

Be a TokyoTreat Insider!

Join our newsletter and receive tasty news and deals!



AnIchigo Logobrand.
Copyright © 2024 TokyoTreat™. All Rights Reserved.
Accepted Payments
Visa payment availableMastercard payment availableAmerican Express payment availableDiscover payment availablePayPal payment available