LoupeLabMoon Phase in Tokyo Today
Monday, August 31, 2026 · Japan
Waning Gibbous
94% illuminated
Tonight’s Moon in Tokyo
Best viewing at 3:00 AM facing SW · 54° above horizon
The Moon & Tokyo
Pacific maritime climate with seasonal typhoon influence
Lunar Culture in Tokyo
Japan's moon viewing tradition, Tsukimi, is one of the world's most refined lunar cultural practices. Held during the autumn full moon, Tsukimi involves displaying pampas grass, offering tsukimi dango (rice dumplings), and contemplating the moon. The Japanese see a rabbit making mochi in the moon's surface markings. Tokyo's National Astronomical Observatory of Japan is a leading lunar research institution.
How the Moon Affects Tokyo
Tokyo Bay's tidal range of about 2 meters affects port operations and coastal planning. The Japanese lunar calendar (kyureki) is still referenced for traditional festivals, agricultural timing, and even financial market analysis. Sushi chefs historically timed seafood purchases to tidal fishing schedules. Japan's space program (JAXA) has conducted multiple lunar missions, including the SLIM lander.
Best Moon Viewing in Tokyo
Tokyo Skytree's observation deck (450m) provides an elevated perspective above light pollution. Rikugien Garden hosts evening Tsukimi events with traditional tea ceremony. Mount Takao (599m), an hour west, offers dark sky moonrise over the Kanto Plain.
Sponsored
Upcoming Lunar Events
New Moon
Friday, September 11, 2026
Full MoonHarvest Moon
Sunday, September 27, 2026
New Moon
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Full MoonHunter's Moon
Monday, October 26, 2026
New Moon
Monday, November 9, 2026
Full MoonBeaver Moon
Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Moonphase Watches & Tokyo
Set Your Moonphase Watch in Tokyo
To set your moonphase complication in Tokyo: wait for the next full moon (Sunday, September 27), then advance the moonphase disc to show a full moon centered in the aperture. Set the time to 7:00 PM local time. Use our drift calculator to check if your complication has drifted since you last set it.
Open Drift CalculatorSponsored