Japanese Moon Lore: Selfless Rabbits, Murdered Goddesses, and Tsukimi (Ep. 183)

About this episode

This episode explores Japanese moon lore, including the moon rabbit, Tsukimi traditions, and the origins of the moon god Tsukuyomi.

Don't point at the moon—you might wake up without your ears. In Japan, the moon rabbit isn't just making mochi. Its image was placed there by the gods to honor an act of pure sacrifice, a Buddhist tale that traveled from India through China and transformed along the way. In this episode we explore Tsukimi moon-viewing traditions, the violent origin of the moon god Tsukuyomi, protective pompous grass rituals, and dozens of poetic names for moonlight—from the "moon you can stand and wait for" to the "moon that rises deep into the night." Plus: moon-viewing thieves, spirit-attracting moonbeams, and why pointing at the moon might cost you more than you think. Tsuki wa jōman. The moon is always full. Please Note: Some of the links are affiliate links (both Amazon and other). This means that at no cost to you, if you use and purchase through them I receive a small compensation. This is paid by the retailer. It also helps support me and my artistic endeavors. Thank you. Follow Uncanny Japan: Patreon Uncanny Japan Website Thersa Matsuura Website Books on Amazon YouTube Facebook Instagram Buy Me a Coffee (one-time contribution) Subscribe on Spotify Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Credits…

People in this episode

Host: Thersa Matsuura

Topics covered

• moon lore
• Tsukimi
• Japanese culture
• Buddhist tales
• moon god Tsukuyomi

Keywords

• moon viewing
• Japanese traditions
• poetic names for moonlight
• sacrifice
• spirit-attracting moonbeams

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Books on Amazon

Places: Japan, India, China

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