September is when signs of autumn begin to appear. At this time of year, many people are probably wondering when the moon viewing day is.

The day for moon viewing, also known as the "Fifteenth Night" or "Mid-Autumn Festival," is the 15th day of the lunar calendar, so it can fall anywhere from mid-September to around October.

This year it falls a little later on Monday, October 6th .

Now, when enjoying the moon viewing, two things are essential: "Tsukimi Dango" (moon viewing dumplings), and then there's the charming fluffy appearance of "Susuki" (Japanese pampas grass). It's also recommended to bring other seasonal flowers that are unique to this season to create a special atmosphere.

Originally, "ears of rice before harvest" were displayed as auspicious items symbolizing the prosperity of descendants, but it is said that pampas grass came to be displayed as a substitute for the ears of rice.

It is believed that the thorns of the Japanese pampas grass have the power to ward off evil and illness, so they may have been chosen to replace the ears of rice. It is also said that the best number of pampas grass to decorate is an odd number, such as one, three, or five.

Ping pong mums are also popular alongside Japanese pampas grass. Their yellow, round shape is reminiscent of the full moon, making them the perfect flower for moon viewing.

We also recommend combining gentians, lisianthus, and carnations, which have deep autumnal colors, to create a seasonal feel.

As an aside, this day when the moon looks the most beautiful in the year is also a day to give thanks for the autumn harvest, especially for potato harvests, and hence it is also called "Potato Moon."

Wouldn't it be fun to have a modern version of moon viewing with sweet potato sweets and your favorite flowers?