While pumpkin patches, apple picking and spiced lattes are the familiar signals of autumn's arrival, let's pause for a moment to celebrate the the harvest moon with a peaceful tea ceremony (especially considering tonight's special super moon appearance). Otsukimi, the Japanese mid-autumn harvest moon-viewing celebration, often takes place in September or October. Nature is in fact a common thread in Japanese steeped celebrations; cherry blossom festival in the spring and autumn harvest in the fall.
Last fall, I bundled myself in warming layers and made my way to Shofuso Japanese House and Garden for a Otsukimi moon-viewing tea ceremony. Crisp air gently whirled through the covered veranda overlooking the garden and pond as twilight glow gave way to the dark night sky. The Otsukimi tea ceremony follows Japanese tradition, in that the host prepares a bowl of matcha for each guest in attendance. The ceremony itself reminds me of a ballet; thoughtfully practiced movements are gracefully threaded together. A small set of customary tea utensils dance about ever so quietly to prepare the bowl of matcha green tea.