category When East Meets West
By Hank F. Miller Jr.
A moon-viewing party is usually held in the middle of September when the air is clear and the moon is at its most beautiful. This traditional custom is said to have originated from farmers\’ religious observances to ensure a good harvest.
People used to make offerings to the full moon, such as rice dumplings, a variety of seasonal fruit and vegetables with Japanese pampas grass and bush clovers, and pray for the realization of their wishes. More often than not, friends were invited to join in the pleasant event and admire the beautiful moon. Moon viewing also created a poetic atmosphere.
Court nobles and men of letters often enjoyed composing short poems, while looking at the full moon. Moon viewing today is not as refined as before, but the Japanese still get together about this time of year and appreciate the beauty and serenity of the moon, while chatting, eating and drinking under the moon.
Warm Regards from Kitakyushu City, Japan
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