The Enchanting Harvest Moon: Celebrating Tsukimi with Elegance in Hakone

From serene moonlit nights in Hakone to the seasonal delights of “Tsukimi Burgers” and sweets

In Japan, the moon is more than just a celestial object—it’s a source of beauty, reflection, and celebration. The custom of Tsukimi, or moon-viewing, dates back centuries and is still alive today, not only through traditional rituals but also in modern forms like moon-themed burgers and sweets. As the 2025 Mid-Autumn Moon approaches on October 6, it’s the perfect time to appreciate this unique blend of cultural heritage and seasonal creativity. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than the quiet, moonlit skies of Hakone.

Traditional Moon-Viewing Culture

Back in the Heian period, Japanese nobles would enjoy moonlit nights by floating on boats and composing waka poetry while admiring the moon’s reflection on the water.

Among common people, it became a custom to offer rice dumplings (tsukimi dango) and susuki grasses to the moon, as a way of giving thanks for the autumn harvest.
This quiet and elegant tradition reflects Japan’s deep appreciation for nature and the changing seasons.

 Modern “Tsukimi Culture” — Savoring the Moon Through Food

Today, this ancient tradition has taken on some modern and playful forms.
From September through October, you’ll see seasonal specialties like Tsukimi Burgers and Tsukimi-themed sweets appearing in restaurants and convenience stores across Japan.

Tsukimi Burgers: A popular autumn-only menu item featuring a sunny-side-up egg representing the full moon. Now a beloved annual tradition at major fast-food chains.

Tsukimi Sweets: Delightful treats inspired by the moon—round mochi, egg-yolk fillings, and soft, chewy textures. Not only delicious but also photogenic and popular on social media.

This fusion of tradition and pop culture offers international visitors a fun and meaningful way to connect with Japanese seasonal customs.

A Journey to the Moon—Tsukimi in Hakone

Hakone’s night sky, relatively free from city lights, offers a perfect stage for admiring the moon.

Whether from the quiet lakeside or a soothing open-air onsen, viewing the harvest moon in Hakone becomes a serene, unforgettable experience.

If your visit coincides with the full moon, don’t forget to look up.

From “listening to the sounds of nature” to “gazing at the moon,” Hakone invites you to savor a quiet kind of luxury that words can’t fully describe.

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