[Genjiko, Genji-koh] Japanese Events in September

• Table of Contents
• Double Ninth Festival (September 9th)
• Respect for the Aged Day (third Monday of September)
• The 15th night (harvest moon)
• Autumnal Equinox Day (Around September 23rd)
• Autumn equinox
• September Events at Genji-koh

September is the perfect time to experience traditional Japanese culture and seasonal changes. In this article, we will introduce the events and anniversaries in chronological order that overseas visitors to Japan in September should be aware of. Why not experience Japanese scenery and culture through these events?

Double Ninth Festival (September 9th)

September 9th is known as the "Chōyō Festival," and chrysanthemum flowers are displayed on the ground to pray for longevity and good health. There is also a custom of eating dishes made with chrysanthemum flowers and enjoying chrysanthemum sake. Please try this out as an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Respect for the Aged Day (third Monday of September)

In Japan, Respect for the Aged Day is a day to honor the elderly and celebrate their longevity. On this day, families gather together and prepare gifts and a special meal to show appreciation for their grandparents. Many communities hold events aimed at the elderly.

The 15th night (harvest moon)

From mid- to late September, there is a custom of viewing the full moon, known as the "Fifteenth Night." People decorate the house with moon-viewing rice dumplings and Japanese silver grass, and enjoy the beautiful moon while praying for a good harvest. If you visit Japan during this time, you can take part in moon-viewing events held all over the country.

Autumnal Equinox Day (Around September 23rd)

Autumnal Equinox Day is the day when the length of day and night are almost equal, and is considered a day to respect nature and worship ancestors. In many households, it is common to visit graves and spend time together as a family. It is also a special day when you can feel the change of the seasons in Japan.

Autumn equinox

The seven days around the autumn equinox are called the "Autumn Higan," and it is customary to visit the graves of ancestors to honor them. During this period, many temples hold memorial services called "Higan-e," attracting many worshippers.

September Events at Genji-koh

At Genji-koh, we usually prepare sake sprinkled with chrysanthemum flowers on the Double Ninth Festival on September 9th. Also, on the night of the full moon, we decorate with Japanese pampas grass and serve moon-viewing rice dumplings. This year, in celebration of Respect for the Aged Day on September 16th, we are offering a little hospitality to our guests.

In September in Japan, there are many seasonal events, all of which are worth seeing. Gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, feel the arrival of autumn, and enjoy these uniquely Japanese events. Why not use this article as a reference when planning your trip?