*中秋の名月とは？
中秋の名月は、旧暦8月15日にあたる満月を指し、日本の秋を象徴する伝統的な行事です。この日は「十五夜」とも呼ばれ、特に月が美しいとされます。古来より、豊作を祈る収穫祭や月見の風習が行われてきました。団子やすすき、季節の野菜を供えて月を眺める「お月見」は、日本独自の風情を感じられる行事として親しまれています。澄んだ秋の夜空に輝く満月は、多くの詩や物語にも登場し、人々に感動を与え続けています。
*What is the Harvest Moon?
The "Chūshū no Meigetsu," or the Harvest Moon, refers to the full moon that appears on the 15th day of the 8th month in the lunar calendar, symbolizing autumn in Japan. This day, also known as "Jūgoya," is celebrated for the particularly beautiful moon. Traditionally, this event has been associated with harvest festivals and moon-viewing customs, where offerings like rice dumplings, pampas grass, and seasonal vegetables are made while admiring the moon. The custom of "Otsukimi," or moon viewing, is cherished as a uniquely Japanese tradition, capturing the essence of the season. The clear autumn night sky, illuminated by the bright full moon, has inspired countless poems and stories, continuing to evoke deep emotions in those who witness it.
