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As October approaches, the air in Yokohama is finally getting cooler. When we think of autumn in Japan, beautiful autumn leaves often come to mind, but today, I would like to introduce another autumn tradition: Tsukimi (Moon Viewing).

Did you know that you don't have to travel all the way to Kyoto to experience a historic Japanese garden? Right here in Yokohama, we have a vast and magnificent garden called Sankeien. I often visit this garden myself to enjoy the plum blossoms and hydrangeas, but during the autumn season, a completely different kind of magic takes over.

What is "Kangetsukai"? Japan has a long-standing culture of admiring the clear, bright autumn moon. Around this time of year, Sankeien hosts a special event called Kangetsukai (Moon Viewing Gathering).

During this event, the garden's opening hours are extended into the night, and its historic structures, including the iconic three-story wooden pagoda, are beautifully illuminated. The contrast between the dark autumn night sky, the glowing golden moon, and the warmly lit Japanese garden is simply breathtaking.

For those of you working hard in a foreign country and perhaps feeling a bit tired, walking through an illuminated Japanese garden while feeling the cool autumn breeze will surely provide a wonderful relaxing effect.

The autumn moon holds a very special place in the hearts of Japanese people. I would be truly happy if I could share this charm with all the international residents living here in Japan.