Cultural Festivals
Mukoujima Hyakuen Garden Moon Viewing
Sep 24 – Sep 26, 09:00–21:00 · Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden, Sumida · Tokyo
Dates
- Sep 24 – Sep 26, 2026, 09:00–21:00
About this event
SummaryExperience the traditional Edo-period Moon Viewing Event at Mukōjima Hyakkaryōen Garden, featuring cultural performances, tea ceremonies, and enchanting lantern illuminations.
Highlights
• Traditional offering ceremony with dumplings and shakuhachi flute performance
• Koto ensemble performances by local musicians
• Tea ceremony showcasing matcha preparation
• Shin'nai Nagashi storytelling with shamisen music
• Garden illuminated by over 50 painted lanterns and candles
Details
This annual event continues the tradition of moon viewing from the Edo period. The garden is transformed into a fantastical space illuminated by "eandon" (paper lanterns) and lanterns decorated with artwork inspired by Katsushika Hokusai, the garden itself, and haiku and paintings related to the Sumida River. Approximately 50 lanterns are lit sequentially from sunset until 9 PM, creating a changing atmosphere that allows visitors to enjoy a stroll through the garden under the moonlight.
Key activities include an offering ceremony where dumplings and vegetables are presented with shakuhachi flute music. A local koto ensemble performs daily. The Mukōjima Hyakkaryōen Tea Association hosts a tea ceremony where the art of tea preparation is showcased and matcha is offered. Shin'nai Nagashi features performers walking through the garden playing two shamisens while reciting Shin'nai stories. The event also includes the illumination of painted lanterns and candles placed throughout the garden.
