The Moon and the Rabbit: Experiencing Autumn in Japan Through Fragrance
One of Japan’s most cherished autumn traditions is tsukimi, or moon viewing.
As the air becomes cooler and clearer, people take time to admire the bright autumn moon. For centuries, the Japanese have welcomed the season by appreciating the moon’s beauty and expressing gratitude for the autumn harvest.
To accompany this peaceful tradition, we introduce Kousaido’s Moon Rabbit Stick Incense, a fragrance inspired by a quiet night beneath the moon.
Why Do Japanese People View the Moon in Autumn?
Tsukimi is traditionally celebrated on the fifteenth night of the eighth month in the old lunar calendar. Known as Jugoya, this night’s moon is called the Chushu no Meigetsu, or Harvest Moon, and has long been considered one of the most beautiful moons of the year.
People traditionally display round tsukimi dango rice dumplings representing the full moon, along with Japanese pampas grass and freshly harvested seasonal produce.
Tsukimi is therefore more than simply admiring the moon. It is also a time to appreciate nature and give thanks for a successful harvest.
The Rabbit in the Moon
In Japan, the shadows visible on the moon are traditionally imagined as a rabbit pounding rice to make mochi.
Because mochi is made from rice, the moon rabbit has also become associated with the autumn harvest and abundance. Children often look up at the full moon and try to find the rabbit, its mortar, and the mallet it uses to pound the rice.
Rabbits are also considered auspicious animals in Japan. Their long ears are said to gather good fortune, while their ability to leap forward represents progress and advancement.
Together, the moon, rabbit, and harvest have made the moon rabbit a beloved symbol of autumn in Japan.
Kousaido Moon Rabbit Stick Incense
Moon Rabbit is a stick incense created by Kousaido and decorated with the rabbit, a traditional symbol of good fortune.
Its fresh and gentle fragrance evokes the stillness of a peaceful night. The charming package depicts a rabbit beneath the moon, and even the washi paper wrapped around the incense features the same design.
Each box contains approximately 40 long incense sticks. One stick burns for approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Enjoy it while viewing the moon, reading, meditating, or simply relaxing at the end of the day.
A Quiet Moment Beneath the Moon
In the midst of a busy life, simply pausing to look up at the moon can bring a sense of calm.
With the gentle fragrance of Kousaido’s Moon Rabbit incense, enjoy a peaceful autumn evening inspired by Japan’s timeless tradition of moon viewing.
