Moon-gazing Tradition in Takanawa

Edo moon-watching Tradition redux

A traditional Japanese festival scene depicted in a multi-panel artwork. The image shows a busy waterfront area with numerous people walking through streets lined with market stalls and lanterns. Several groups carry decorative objects through the crowd, while boats of various sizes are visible on the water in the background. The composition contains detailed illustrations of everyday life, festival activities, and maritime trade, using soft blue, black, red, and beige tones characteristic of historical Japanese woodblock prints.

Edoite, had followed the lunar calendar, were the night owl in their own right.
They did not only recognise the moon as an essential time-measuring device but also simply gravitated towards its mysterious beauty in awe.

Fabled Hiroshige Utagawa‘s Ukiyoe depicts the scenery of hilly Takanawa, where its uptown commands a panoramic vista, along with a port view bustling with stalls and fun fairs.
According to ancient documents, it is believed that the epicurean inhabitants of Edo had been basking in the culinary pleasure of unique hawker culture whilst adoring the beautiful crescent moon looming out at midnight.
However, after Edo period, the excitement for moon-gazing ebbed away, and their culture is found amongst modern Tokyoite merely once in a blue moon.

Stone steps lead through a landscaped Japanese garden to a traditional red wooden gate illuminated at night. Decorative bamboo-inspired light displays line both sides of the pathway, while flowering trees and surrounding greenery are highlighted with warm and cool lighting. The illuminated garden creates a scenic route for guests to experience the beauty of the seasons and traditional Japanese architecture after sunset.

Today, Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa revives that richly historic moon-viewing culture with a modern interpretation that recalls the quintessence of Edo.
Hark back to the bygone Edo era and embark on a timeless adventure.

Light up

A gently curved wooden bridge extends through a Japanese garden illuminated at night. Along the pathway, decorative light installations cast a warm glow over neatly trimmed shrubs and garden foliage. In the background, flowering trees are illuminated in shades of blue and purple, framing a traditional Japanese gate lit by lantern-style lights. The pathway guides guests through the garden, offering views of seasonal landscapes, architectural details, and evening light displays in a peaceful outdoor setting.

Bamboo works, created by CHIKAKEN, allure guests into a constellation of light at The Takanawa Japanese Garden.
Have a delightful saunter under starry skies or wind down with dining while seeing beautiful lambent bamboo lanterns.

Time: 6:00P.M. – 11:00P.M.
Place: Japanese Garden
Creator: CHIKAKEN