JAPAN: Moon of Homesickness

Japan too celebrated the harvest moon with a "Moon Viewing Festival." Millions of Japanese came out to gaze skyward, to dance and feast in honor of harvest home. Some remembered that in Japanese tradition the moon also symbolizes homesickness. Outside the cream-colored Russian Embassy in Tokyo, 3,000 men & women, mostly elderly farmers, marched slowly back & forth, bowing as they passed the big iron gate. In their hands were small white banners decorated with moons. One banner was inscribed: "Oh moon, tell me where my son is now?"

The marchers were members of the "Federation of Families for...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!