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September has arrived. While it is simply "September" on modern Japanese calendars, the traditional name for this month is Nagatsuki. There are a few theories about the origin of this name, but the most famous is Yonagatsuki—a shortened form of a phrase meaning "the month when autumn deepens and the nights grow longer."

There are also several other beautiful theories behind this name:

• Inekarizuki (Month of Harvesting Rice): The Autumn of Harvest This theory suggests it comes from Inekarizuki, the season when rice fields ripen and are harvested. It perfectly conveys Japan's history as an agricultural society and the joys of "the autumn of appetite" when the newly harvested rice is most delicious.

• Nagamezuki (Month of Long Rains): The Autumn Rains September is a season of prolonged rain due to typhoons and the autumn rain front. This theory points to it being the month of naga-ame (long rains).

• Nagorizuki (Month of Lingering Memories): The Changing of Seasons Nagori refers to the feeling of reluctantly saying goodbye to the passing summer while sensing the transition into autumn. It is a beautiful origin that perfectly links to the theme of "late-summer nostalgia."

  

This is the season when the intense summer heat gradually softens, and dusk arrives earlier. While there is a slight sense of loneliness, the nights grow longer, and the moon shines beautifully. For centuries, the Japanese have called this time Aki no Yonaga (long autumn nights), cherishing the time spent reading, eating delicious food, and relaxing quietly while gazing at the moon.

Since the temperature fluctuations can cause fatigue to surface during this time of year, please make sure to take time to rest. Try enjoying moon-viewing moments and delicious autumn meals. You might even want to try a McDonald's "Tsukimi (Moon-Viewing) Burger," which has become a famous modern autumn tradition in Japan! Why not take it easy and fully savor the season?