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OTSUKIMI
November 8th and 9th
Otsukimi - Moonviewing Exhibit
EVENT
November 8th & 9th, 5pm - 9pm
(last admission at 8:00 pm)
Instead of going star gazing, the Japanese go moon gazing!
Similar to the traditions of cherry blossom viewing and autumn leaves viewing, the Japanese take time to enjoy the moon when it is most beautiful.
Experience our annual Otsukimi Moon Viewing Exhibit, a beloved Japanese tradition honoring the full moon. Stroll along lantern-lit paths under the moonlight and take in an array of Japanese displays and musical performances, or savor a selection of authentic sake, traditional Japanese cuisine, and delectable snacks.
This year's theme is Tsukimachi no Yoi（月待ちの宵）– Moon-Waiting Evening
An Autumn Night of Reflection, Rhythm, and Cultural Harmony
Inspired by the ancient tradition of tsukimachi—gathering to await the full moon—this year’s theme celebrates the beauty of the moment between stillness and light.
Enjoy an evening of traditional music, dance, and seasonal art as the garden comes alive under the moonlit sky.
Continue reading to learn more about the event, or purchase your ticket now!
General Admission:
General $35
Youth 7-17: $25
Youth 0-6: Free
Member: $30
Please note ticket prices are charged a $2 additional fee if purchased at the event
Tea Bundle Tickets:
Includes Otsukimi Tickets and Tea House Concert
General $75
Youth 7-17: $65
Youth 0-6: Free
Event Schedule
Enjoy performances and activities throughout the evening! All performances are included with admission.
Programming
Subject to Change*
Main Stage Program
Gate Open at 4:30 pm
5:15 PM: Shakuhachi Performance by Jin Sokushin
5:30 PM: Sake Lecture by Sake Sommelier from Ozeki Sake USA by Mark Fukushima
5:50 pm: Japanese Traditional Dance - Nihon Buyo by Suzuyuki-Kai
6:15 pm: Native Hoop Dance & Brother Drum by HopiToWa
6:30 pm: Ikebana Live Demonstration by Ping Wei, supported by Japanese Traditional Music performance by Ken Koshio
Short Intermission
7:15 pm: Shakuhachi Performance by Jin Sokushin
7:30 pm: Sake Lecture by Sake Sommelier from Ozeki Sake USA by Mark Fukushima
7:45 pm: Japanese Traditional Dance- Nihon Buyo by Suzuyuki-Kai
8:10 pm: Native Hoop Dance & Brother Drum by HopiToWa
8:30 pm: Finale: Collaboration with Japanese Drumming and Dance
The gate closes at 9 pm
Vendors
Himeji Sister City Information Booth
Kimono and traditional Japanese goods displayed by Junko Horton
Haiku writing by request with a 1923 portable Underwood typewriter by Robb Tyler
Ikebana Potteries by Ping Wei
Shodo (Japanese calligraphy) at our calligraphy booth, where you can get your name written in Japanese by Yuka Ishiko
Washi Kimono and Washi Egg Art by Karen O’Hanlon: https://kpohanlonstudio.com
Phoenix Shogi Club
Coronado Lily
Arizona Bujinkan Ninpo & Budo Kai: www.arizonabujinkan.org
Food Vendors
Kakigori Addict & Shimogamo- Kakigori, Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, Wagyu Skewer
Arizona Buddhist Temple - Japanese Noodles
Mochinut Tempe -Mochi Donuts, drinks (Oatmilk Matcha Latte, Strawberry Lemonade Sparkle, Passion Green Tea)
Komugi Bakery (Saturday) -Japanese Bread, and Assorted Sweets
Japanese Friendship Garden - Sake Bar, Snack, and various Drinks
Parking
The Japanese Friendship Garden Parking Lot is available for event goers, but please be advised that space is limited. Additional parking is also available in the Margert H Parking Lot near Culver Dog Park, as well as street parking on side streets surrounding JFG.
Event Map
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What to Expect
The word "Otsukimi" means to literally gaze at the moon (月 tsuki means moon and 見 mi means to look).
This tradition of enjoying the beauty of the full moon in September and October dates back to the Heian period, from 794 to 1185 A.D. In those days, aristocrats would gather together to admire the moon, recite poetry, and play instruments.
They would admire the reflection of the moon on the surface of ponds or on the surface of their cups of sake. Many poems written during Otsukimi can be found in the Kokinshu, a famous ancient Japanese poetry anthology.
During our event, witness the grace of traditional Japanese Arts as skilled artists create intricate characters for you at our calligraphy booth, or create works of art via language at through haiku. Admire the elegance of Ikebana flower arrangements, where nature and art merge in perfect harmony, and explore Japanese art installations that blend tradition and creativity, resulting in glowing beauty unique to our Garden.
Enjoy mesmerizing Traditional Japanese Musical Performances featuring local favorites Ken Koshio & Kenzoo, with their thundering beats Taiko, and Native Hoop Dancer!
Our main stage will also be hosting a visiting sake sommelier from Ozeki Sake, as well as bamboo flute and shamisen performances, celebrating all forms of traditional Japanese music!
Indulge in delectable Traditional Japanese food, including both savory and sweet snacks. Pair your culinary delights with sake and beer from our garden bar for a truly authentic experience!
Tea House Concert Bundle: As an exclusive treat you can experience a traditional Japanese musical performance on the Koto along with a serving on sencha tea exclusively in our tea house.
Join us for a magical evening under the moonlit sky, celebrating the centuries old tradition of Otsukimi in the heart of the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix.
Clear Bag Policy for 'Otsukimi Moon Viewing Exhibit
During 'Otsukimi', only clear bags, small clutch bags (4.5" x 6.5" or smaller), or medically necessary items will be allowed inside the Garden premises.
This includes bags such as clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags.
Backpacks, large purses, and non-clear bags will not be permitted.
Exceptions:
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Medically necessary items (must be screened)
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Diaper bags (accompanied by a child)
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Strollers and wheelchairs (after inspection)
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Prohibited Items:
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Please be aware that the following items are not allowed inside the Garden:
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Weapons of any kind Outside food and beverages
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Alcohol and illegal drugs
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Pets (service animals are welcome)
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Drones, Selfie sticks, tripods, and professional camera equipment
Planning Your Visit: We recommend planning to ensure a smooth entry experience for all attendees. Consider leaving non-essential items at home or in your vehicle. Please note that limited quantities of complimentary clear bags will be available at our entrance for items that do not comply with the policy.
Thank you to our Sponsor, SRP, for your contributions to making this event possible:
Tea House Bundle Tickets
These bundle tickets include tickets to Otsukimi as well as a special exhibit inside our Tea House!
Get the opportunity to view the roji decorated for Otsukimi, as well as inside the tea house where a private musical performance will be taking place.
Bundle tickets will include a koto performance and a tea garden and exhibit tour led by our docents.
Tea House Bundle Admission:
General $75
Youth 7-17: $65
Youth 0-6: Free
