Update-date: Aug 30 2023
In Japan, around the Mid-Autumn Festival period, various moon-viewing events are held across the country. This article will introduce when the Mid-Autumn Festival will take place in 2023, the ideal way to spend your time during this festival period, Tokyo locations where you can appreciate the beautiful moon, and restaurants where you can relish a delicious meal while enjoying the scenic night view. Feel free to use this article as a guide to make the most of this special time of the year.
What Is the "Mid-Autumn Festival"?
The Japanese term for the Mid-Autumn Festival is actually mid-autumn moon. This refers to the moon on the 15th day of the 8th month in the lunar calendar.
According to the lunar calendar, the months of July through September are classified as autumn, and since August 15 falls in the middle of this season, it is called "mid-autumn." Moreover, over a span of 15 days, the moon progressively waxes and wanes from a new moon to a full moon. In the lunar calendar, the day of the new moon was designated as the first day of each month based on the phases of the moon. As a result, the 15th day of the lunar calendar corresponds to the (almost) full moon. Due to the belief that autumn showcases the moon at its best, the moon on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month got the special name "mid-autumn moon."
Moon-viewing is a custom from China. In Japan, moon-viewing parties were originally hosted at the palaces where emperors resided starting at the end of the 9th century. In this way, since ancient times, the Mid-Autumn Festival has been celebrated with elegance. People composed waka poems (a form of traditional Japanese poetry) while gazing at the moon and observing its reflection in ponds.
When Is Mid-Autumn in Japan?
Due to its adherence to the lunar calendar, the date of the Mid-Autumn Festival varies each year. In 2023, it will fall on Friday, September 29.
By the way, it is widely acknowledged that the moon exhibits its most captivating beauty during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but have you ever wondered why? The phenomenon is actually attributed to both the autumnal atmosphere and the moon's position in the sky. In Japan, autumn brings in traveling anticyclones—a large-scale circulation of winds around a central region of high atmospheric pressure—that dry the air, resulting in clear skies with little moisture or dust. Additionally, as the moon approaches a higher position in the sky during winter and a lower position during summer, autumn becomes the ideal season for moon viewing, as the moon's elevation is just right for optimal appreciation.
By the way, it is widely acknowledged that the moon exhibits its most captivating beauty during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but have you ever wondered why? The phenomenon is actually attributed to both the autumnal atmosphere and the moon's position in the sky. In Japan, autumn brings in traveling anticyclones—a large-scale circulation of winds around a central region of high atmospheric pressure—that dry the air, resulting in clear skies with little moisture or dust. Additionally, as the moon approaches a higher position in the sky during winter and a lower position during summer, autumn becomes the ideal season for moon viewing, as the moon's elevation is just right for optimal appreciation.
What to Do During the Mid-Autumn Festival?
A pivotal element of Japanese moon viewing, other than the Mid-Autumn Festival itself, revolves around the presentation of "tsukimi dango.” The traditional way of offering these moon-viewing dumplings is to place a stand where the moon can be seen clearly and arrange the dumplings on it in a pyramid shape. The symbolism behind these moon-viewing dumplings is rooted in expressing prayers and gratitude for a fruitful harvest. Through these rice-based dumplings, the Japanese pay homage to the autumn season, marked by the gathering of crops.
Furthermore, given that the Mid-Autumn Festival coincides with the potato harvest season, offerings of taro and sweet potatoes have become customary to celebrate the potato harvest. Grapes, too, find their place in these offerings, as their vines are believed to foster a favorable connection between the moon and humanity, bringing with them good fortune.
Furthermore, given that the Mid-Autumn Festival coincides with the potato harvest season, offerings of taro and sweet potatoes have become customary to celebrate the potato harvest. Grapes, too, find their place in these offerings, as their vines are believed to foster a favorable connection between the moon and humanity, bringing with them good fortune.
An additional staple among the offerings is silver grass. Throughout history, the Japanese have held the belief that the tall stalks of rice embody a divine presence. As such, offerings have been presented to these entities. However, since the rice stalks have yet to reach full maturity by the Mid-Autumn Festival period, it is said that they instead offered silver grass, whose appearance resembles that of rice.
Recommended Moon Viewing Spots in Tokyo
Discover some excellent locations in Tokyo for relishing the mid-autumn moon. Also, don't overlook the events that occur solely during this time of the year!
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower stands as an iconic landmark in Tokyo. The Top Deck, situated at a lofty height of 250 meters, and the Main Deck, positioned at 150 meters, provide a sweeping panorama of Tokyo's nocturnal landscape.
Every year on the day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, an event called the "Moon-Viewing Stair Walk" takes place, where participants can climb approximately 600 steps of an outdoor staircase to reach the Main Deck. The outdoor staircase, which is normally accessible from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, is specially opened until 10:00 pm on this day.
Though the notion of tackling nearly 600 steps might sound daunting, the ascent can be accomplished in a mere 15 minutes. On the event day, there are rest stops along the way with dumplings and silver grass on display, allowing you to also enjoy the culture behind the Mid-Autumn Festival.
For updates regarding the event, please refer to the official website!
Every year on the day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, an event called the "Moon-Viewing Stair Walk" takes place, where participants can climb approximately 600 steps of an outdoor staircase to reach the Main Deck. The outdoor staircase, which is normally accessible from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, is specially opened until 10:00 pm on this day.
Though the notion of tackling nearly 600 steps might sound daunting, the ascent can be accomplished in a mere 15 minutes. On the event day, there are rest stops along the way with dumplings and silver grass on display, allowing you to also enjoy the culture behind the Mid-Autumn Festival.
For updates regarding the event, please refer to the official website!
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is an immense tower soaring to a height of 634 meters. From its 450-meter-high observatory, you can take in the entire Kanto region, including Tokyo. The glass-enclosed aerial corridor offers the sensation of strolling through the sky.
The spectacle of the moon from Japan's tallest structure is simply awe-inspiring! Why not indulge in a lavish moon-viewing encounter while also relishing the city's nocturnal expanse at Tokyo Skytree?
The spectacle of the moon from Japan's tallest structure is simply awe-inspiring! Why not indulge in a lavish moon-viewing encounter while also relishing the city's nocturnal expanse at Tokyo Skytree?
Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden
Established in the first half of the 19th century, Mukojima Hyakkaen is a garden that transforms its appearance with each passing season, boasting plum blossoms in early spring, wisteria in early summer, and bush clovers in autumn. The garden hosts seasonal events that contribute to its allure.
The "Tsukimi no Kai" (moon-viewing party), held annually for three days before and after the Mid-Autumn Moon, stands as a time-honored tradition tracing its roots back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Throughout this event, the garden extends its operating hours until 21:00, in contrast to the usual closing time of 17:00. This extension allows visitors to relish the enchanting nighttime panorama of the garden, illuminated by both moonlight and lanterns.
Date and time: Thursday, September 28 - Saturday, September 30, 2023, 9:00 - 21:00 (last admission at 20:30)
The "Tsukimi no Kai" (moon-viewing party), held annually for three days before and after the Mid-Autumn Moon, stands as a time-honored tradition tracing its roots back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Throughout this event, the garden extends its operating hours until 21:00, in contrast to the usual closing time of 17:00. This extension allows visitors to relish the enchanting nighttime panorama of the garden, illuminated by both moonlight and lanterns.
Date and time: Thursday, September 28 - Saturday, September 30, 2023, 9:00 - 21:00 (last admission at 20:30)
Recommended Restaurants for Dinner in Tokyo
Below are a selection of noteworthy dining establishments in Tokyo that perfectly suit the special occasion that is the Mid-Autumn Festival.
XEX ATAGO GREEN HILLS / Salvatore Cuomo Bros. (Onarimon / Italian)
Situated on the 42nd floor at a height of 180 meters, Salvatore Cuomo Bros. offers an exceptional location, providing vistas of Tokyo Tower and the night sky. Beyond the spectacular setting, this venue offers a delightful culinary experience featuring exquisite Italian cuisine crafted from meticulously chosen ingredients, including delectable grilled dishes like steaks.
Moreover, within the premises, you'll find [tempura & sushi An], an enclave for Japanese cuisine serving sushi and tempura, as well as [The BAR], promising a lavish and sophisticated experience for adults.
Moreover, within the premises, you'll find [tempura & sushi An], an enclave for Japanese cuisine serving sushi and tempura, as well as [The BAR], promising a lavish and sophisticated experience for adults.
The Italian course Serata Speciale (20,000 JPY) features luxurious ingredients such as caviar, truffles, hairy crab, and A5-grade black wagyu filet, making it a perfect choice for a special evening. With a selection of 700 different wines, including champagne and Japanese sake, you can indulge in a truly lavish experience to your heart's content.
XEX ATAGO GREEN HILLS / Salvatore Cuomo Bros.
Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Salvatore Cuomo Bros, Tempura & Sushi An / Dinner 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) / Salvatore Cuomo Bros, Tempura & Sushi An / Cafe 11:30 am - 5:00 pm (L.O. 4:30 pm) / The BAR / bar 5:00 pm - 4:00 am( L.O. 3:00 am)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,500 JPY
Access: 4-minute walk from Exit A5 of Onarimon Station on the Toei Mita Line
Address: 42F, Atago Green Hills MORI Tower, 2-5-1, Atago, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,500 JPY
Access: 4-minute walk from Exit A5 of Onarimon Station on the Toei Mita Line
Address: 42F, Atago Green Hills MORI Tower, 2-5-1, Atago, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
More Details Reservation
Series the Sky (Tokyo Skytree / Chinese)
Unveiled on the 31st floor of Tokyo Skytree, Series the Sky stands as the second branch of the esteemed Chinese restaurant Series, a recipient of a star for three consecutive years since 2021. This restaurant prides itself on a bespoke, multi-course menu curated by a chef who seamlessly fuses traditional Cantonese culinary traditions with the insights and expertise gained through training in various Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, and Indonesia.
The Dinner Standard Course (8,800 JPY) offers a diverse range of Chinese dishes, totaling 24 items in small portions. An added delight is the use of traditional Japanese crafts such as Arita and Kutani ceramics for serving. With the addition of the moon shining in the night sky, the glittering cityscape, and the restaurant's varied cuisine, there's no doubt that it will be a truly special evening.
Series the sky
Open: Lunch 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) The last entry is at 2:00 PM / Afternoon Tea 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (L.O. 4:00 pm) The last entry is at 4:00 pm / Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 8:00 pm) The last entry is at 8:00 pm
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 4,000 JPY
Access: Right in front of Tokyo Skytree Station's main entrance
Address: E3105, 31F, 1-1-2, Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 4,000 JPY
Access: Right in front of Tokyo Skytree Station's main entrance
Address: E3105, 31F, 1-1-2, Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo Map
More Details Reservation
If you happen to be in Japan during autumn, consider dedicating a special evening to basking in the splendor of the beautiful moon.
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
