Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) Coloring Pages

What is Tsukimi (Moon Viewing)?

Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) is a traditional Japanese event where people look up at the moon. It is a time to celebrate the full moon in autumn, which is said to be the most beautiful moon of the whole year. People thank the moon, leave offerings for it, and eat meals while looking up at it.

When is Juusoya (the 15th night)?

Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) takes place on August 15th of the old calendar. This night is called "Juusoya."

The old calendar was based on the phases of the moon, so the dates are different from the calendar we use today. Because of this, Juusoya is not on the same day every year. The date changes every year between September and October.

Why do people make offerings?

People often place offerings during Tsukimi (Moon Viewing).

• Dango (rice dumplings): Round dumplings that look like the moon are set out as offerings. They carry a wish for a good harvest (meaning: growing lots of rice).
• Susuki (pampas grass): Susuki grass looks like ears of rice, so people display it to wish for a good harvest. The leaves of susuki grass are also said to ward off bad luck.
• Taro roots and fruits: Foods harvested in autumn, like taro roots, grapes, and persimmons, are also set out as offerings. This is a way to tell the moon that you are thankful for the gifts of autumn.

How to Choose Colors: Express the Autumn Night Sky!

The trick for a Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) coloring page is to show how quiet and pretty the autumn night sky is.

• The Moon: Color the moon with gentle colors like yellow or white. You can blend in a little bit of light gray to make it look like it is glowing!
• The Night Sky: Instead of plain black, try using dark blue, purple, or navy blue to give the sky a deep feeling. If you color the stars and clouds with lighter colors, they will look like they are lit up by the moonlight!

How to Make Things Look 3D: Think About "Shadows" and "Light"!

Try these fun tricks to make the rice dumplings and pampas grass in your coloring page look 3D!

• Rice Dumplings: Add shadows with light gray to show where light hits the round dumplings. That will make their round shape stand out!
• Pampas Grass: The tops of pampas grass look white and fluffy. Draw lots of thin lines to make them look soft and fluffy!

Tips for Enjoying Your Coloring Page!

• Express Yourself Freely!
  • You can color your Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) coloring page any way you like. Making the dumplings colorful or making the moon pink will turn into a wonderful coloring page too!
• Draw a Detailed Background!
  • Where are you doing Tsukimi (Moon Viewing)? In your garden at home? Or on top of a big mountain? Add things like trees, houses, or clouds to the background to bring your picture to life!