LoupeLabMoon Phase in Tokyo Today
Friday, May 15, 2026 · Japan
New Moon
3% illuminated
Tonight’s Moon in Tokyo
Best viewing at 11:00 AM facing S · 75° 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.
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Upcoming Lunar Events
New Moon
Sunday, May 17, 2026
Full MoonFlower Moon
Sunday, May 31, 2026
New Moon
Monday, June 15, 2026
Full MoonStrawberry Moon
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
New Moon
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Full MoonBuck Moon
Thursday, July 30, 2026
Moonphase Watches & Tokyo
Set Your Moonphase Watch in Tokyo
To set your moonphase complication in Tokyo: wait for the next full moon (Sunday, May 31), then advance the moonphase disc to show a full moon centered in the aperture. Set the time to 3:35 AM local time. Use our drift calculator to check if your complication has drifted since you last set it.
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