Seasonal Word Leaves: Japan’s September, “Nagatsuki” — Admiring the Moon, Thanking the Harvest.

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Seasonal Word Leaves: Japan’s September, “Nagatsuki” — Admiring the Moon, Thanking the Harvest.

Hiragana Times
Oct 03, 2025

『言葉』/ Word Leave

Seasonal Word Leaves: Japan’s September, “Nagatsuki” — Admiring the Moon, Thanking the Harvest.

季節の言の葉: 日本の9月「長月」— 月を愛で、実りに感謝する秋の始まり。

“Nagatsuki” is the traditional name for the ninth month of the old lunar calendar. It is said to be derived from “Yonagazuki” (the month of long nights), as the nights gradually lengthen. The lingering summer heat finally softens, and admiring the “Chushu no Meigetsu” (Harvest Moon) in the clear night sky becomes a special custom known as “Otsukimi.” People decorate with pampas grass (susuki) and offer dumplings (dango) to give thanks for the bountiful harvest. It is a season for appreciating nature’s blessings and the gentle autumn air amid the chorus of insects.

「長月」は旧暦9月。次第に夜が長くなる「夜長月」から転じた説が伝わります。厳しい残暑もようやく和らぎ、澄んだ夜空に輝く「中秋の名月」を愛でるお月見は、この時期ならではの風習です。ススキを飾り団子を供え、作物の豊穣に感謝します。響き渡る虫の音に、自然の恵みと秋の風情を愛でる季節です。