Illustration of a Japanese woman looking at the moon, ca. 800.

Cultures

It’s the season for moon viewing! (Otsukimi season has arrived)

In Japan, there is a custom to view the beautiful and bright moon around September, when the sky is clearest of the year. It is called “Otsukimi” (moon viewing). Originally from China, it’s an event to share the joy of a successful harvest and to give thanks.

And during the moon viewing season, many products using “dango (rice dumpling)” and “sunny-side up eggs” are sold. They resemble a round full moon. McDonald’s Japan sells “Tsukimi Pie” with dumplings and Anko (sweet bean paste) inside and “Tsukimi Burger” with a fried egg in a hamburger.

This month’s full moon was on September 10.

Clip art of man having nightmares about parasitesParasitological Museum of interest to Bill GatesPrev

Red spider lily (Higanbana) are in their peak seasonNextIllustration of a woman holding a higanbana in her mouth as a cigarette. Never imitate her!

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