Songs to listen to under the moon: classic and recommended popular tracks to enjoy the Mid-Autumn full moon
An autumn tradition: moon viewing! Offering rice dumplings and pampas grass, gazing at the beautiful moon and letting your thoughts wander—this indispensable seasonal custom is said to have begun in the Heian period.
By the way, there are works across many genres themed around the moon.
In this article, we’ll introduce standout songs among these “moon tunes” that perfectly match an o-tsukimi scene.
We’ve included pieces with beautiful sonorities that suit the Harvest Moon, songs for spending time with family, and tracks that children can enjoy.
As you gaze up at the moon, try listening while layering your own feelings onto the music.
Songs to Listen to for Moon Viewing: Classic and Popular Picks to Enjoy the Mid-Autumn Full Moon (1–10)
Starry NightYuka
This is the track that was chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “A Night When Stars Fall,” which drew a huge response.
It’s a song by singer-songwriter Yuka, produced by Toru from ONE OK ROCK.
Titled after a scene where only starlight shines on a night without the moon, the piece conveys the feeling of calling a loved one’s name as if in prayer, affirming the preciousness of their presence.
The clear vocals of Yuka and the bittersweet yet warm melody weave an ensemble that makes it a song you’ll want to listen to closely under the autumn night sky while thinking of someone dear.
Let’s dance in the moonlightmoumoon
A song by moumoon that paints a fantastical world where you enjoy dancing with animals in a moonlit field.
Released in May 2010, the track is notable for its warm melody and gentle vocals.
With lyrics featuring pampas grass swaying to the rhythm, rabbits, and even the moon itself, it’s perfect for an autumn moon-viewing night.
Celebrating harmony with nature and the joy of being together, it’s a piece you’ll want to listen to with family or a loved one.
How about listening to it while gazing at the Harvest Moon? It’s sure to become a lovely memory.
crescent moonDREAMS COME TRUE
DREAMS COME TRUE continues to captivate fans with their overwhelming vocal prowess.
This song was used in the hugely popular TV drama “Emergency Room 24 Hours,” so many of you may find it familiar.
It’s included on the single “Asa ga Mata Kuru,” released in January 1999.
The lyric—wishing to the moon, “Please let me see the person I cherish”—overlaps with Miwa Yoshida’s emotionally rich vocals, resonating deeply in the heart.
Why not listen to it on an otsukimi night, thinking of someone special?
Full Moon FortuneMatsutōya Yumi
“Full Moon Fortune” is a song by Yumi Matsutoya—known by her nickname Yuming—featured on her 1990 album “Heaven’s Door.” The album reached No.
1 on the Oricon album chart, and “Full Moon Fortune” was also used as the commercial song for Mitsubishi Motors’ new Mirage.
The music video, where Matsutoya sings in a cheongsam while appearing within the moon, is particularly memorable.
If the harvest moon is full, why not give “Full Moon Fortune” a listen?
Watercolor MoonHata Motohiro
This is a grand yet gentle ballad sung by Motohiro Hata.
It was also used as the theme song for the film “An” (Sweet Bean).
Centered on the warm tones of the piano, with acoustic guitar and strings layered on top, the gentle message feels even more emphasized.
The lyrics leave an impression with their bittersweet mood, as if gazing up at a bright moon in the night sky and thinking of someone far away.
It also conveys a strong resolve—to live with strength like that person—while holding cherished memories close to the heart.
It’s a calm piece that seems to find hope amid sorrow.
Amber MoonDREAMS COME TRUE
A pop number crafted by DREAMS COME TRUE that’s perfect for autumn nights.
Released in March 1995, it’s included on the classic album “DELICIOUS,” which topped that year’s Oricon annual album chart.
The lyrics, capturing the bittersweet frustration of being unable to move beyond a “friends” relationship despite being in love, resonate deeply.
It’s the perfect song for gazing up at the night sky and basking in sweet, heartrending memories.
Moon DropsRUI
Tsuki no Shizuku (Moon’s Droplet) is a single released by actress Kou Shibasaki under the name RUI, used as both an insert song and the main theme for the film Yomigaeri.
Although it debuted at No.
14 on the Oricon Singles Chart upon its 2003 release, its sales rose along with the film’s success, and it ultimately reached No.
1.
Shibasaki’s vocals are as delicate as a full moon, making the song perfect for moon viewing.
Why not spend the Harvest Moon night listening to Tsuki no Shizuku?
moonbowBUMP OF CHICKEN
This is a song that conveys a strong resolve to find a light of hope beyond the darkness.
Created by the four-piece rock band BUMP OF CHICKEN, it was included on the album “aurora arc,” released in July 2019.
It was written specifically for the TV anime Karakuri Circus.
As you listen to the oriental tones woven by acoustic guitar and accordion, you feel as if you’re being led into another world.
On a moonlit night, why not dive into its grand worldview?
Akatsuki-zukuyoHONEY WORKS
“Akatsukizukuyo” is a song by the creator unit HoneyWorks.
It’s included on a single released in May 2015.
The rock-tinged sound led by a piano melody leaves a strong impression.
The protagonist, so consumed with thoughts of the one they love, ends up staying up all night…the lyrics, overlaying those feelings onto the moon hanging in the dawn sky, are irresistible.
Many people are sure to get butterflies from this youthful story.
Try listening while thinking of the person who’s that someone for you.
Thinking of You on a Moonlit Night of Falling LoveKing&Prince
This is a classic love song that captures the exhilarating moment when love begins.
Released in October 2021, this track is King & Prince’s eighth single and was chosen as the theme song for the film Kaguya-sama: Love Is War – Final.
The lyrics evoke a romantic scene of thinking about someone special on a night when the moon shines beautifully.
The sparkling, uplifting, and catchy melody perfectly conveys the protagonist’s heart overflowing with unstoppable feelings of love.
Why not listen to it while gazing at the moon and overlaying it with the precious feelings you hold in your heart?