Moon viewing, or tsukimi, has long been a popular pastime in Japan. Traditionally it was a way of expressing gratitude for a good harvest and hopes for similar bounty in the future.

An Obon Matsuri / Bon Festival is traditionally held in the peak heat of summer when space between the natural and the supernatural world is thinnest. This is a time when individuals come together to remember ancestors and those lost as a community.

Toro nagashi refers to the Japanese river lantern festivals held in summer where participants release candle-lit lanterns into the river together with their prayers for peace.

In Japan, the ancient tradition of enjoying the beautiful but ephemeral blossoms of cherry trees is called hanami, which literally means “flower viewing.”

Moon viewing, or tsukimi, has long been a popular pastime in Japan. Traditionally it was a way of expressing gratitude for a good harvest and hopes for similar bounty in the future.

Toro nagashi refers to the Japanese river lantern festivals held in summer where participants release candle-lit lanterns into the river together with their prayers for peace.

The Obon Festival (お盆, also known as Bon Festival) is an annual Japanese holiday that commemorates and remembers deceased ancestors.

Carp flags, or koinobori, are the iconic symbol of this holiday. Children’s Day promises these streamer-like fish made of cloth, which are meant to bring the children of a household good luck. When the wind blows through the koinobori, it makes it look like the fish is swimming.

In Japan, the ancient tradition of enjoying the beautiful but ephemeral blossoms of cherry trees is called hanami, which literally means “flower viewing.”