Admire the autumn full moon this October in the beautifully illuminated gardens of Hamarikyu. This sprawling Tokyo green space, which once belonged to the powerful Tokugawa shogunate, will stay open until 9pm from October 15 to 19. This special night opening is held to celebrate Kurimeigetsu (October 15), believed to be the second most beautiful evening to catch the harvest moon.
Stemming from the moon-viewing tradition known as tsukimi, which dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 AD), the event will begin with an offering ceremony on October 15 at 6pm at the lawn near the Shiojiri pond. This will be followed by a flute performance.
Guided moon viewing tours (¥500, cash only) in English are available on October 16 at 6.30pm. The meeting point is at the Matsu no Ochaya teahouse. Spaces are limited, based on a first-come, first-served basis.
There’s another tour on Saturday October 19 at 11am and again at 2pm. This free activity will introduce you to gardens’ highlights and their history. Afterwards, enjoy traditional instrumental music performed on a boat. This, apparently, is a favourite pastime of the shogun in the olden days. There are three 20-minute performances – at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm.