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.
- [Moon Songs Special] Famous songs about the moon. Songs you’ll want to listen to under a full moon or in the moonlight.
- [Children’s Songs of Autumn] Autumn songs, school songs, and traditional children’s rhymes. A collection of classic pieces to sing in autumn.
- [Autumn Songs] Songs of autumn. Classic tracks and popular favorites you’ll want to listen to in the fall.
- [For Seniors] Autumn Songs That Touch the Heart: From Nostalgic Children’s Songs and School Songs to Showa-Era Kayōkyoku
- [Masterpieces Singing the Full Moon] Carefully Selected Popular and Classic Songs Related to the Moon
- [Autumn Classics] Japanese Songs to Listen to and Sing in October: A Curated Selection of Beloved, Heartfelt Hits
- Songs to Listen to in September: Popular J-POP Tracks That Capture the End of Summer and Early Autumn
- Colorful coming-of-age songs perfect for autumn listening
- Ballad songs perfect for autumn. Timeless mellow hits for the fall season.
- Songs of the constellations: classic and popular tracks you’ll want to listen to while gazing at the night sky
- Famous songs about the crescent moon. Recommended popular tracks.
- Autumn Classics: Carefully Selected Exquisite Ballads to Listen to in September
- Masterpieces that sing of the stars. Star songs that resonate in the heart, best heard beneath the night sky.
Songs to Listen to During Moon Viewing: Classic and Recommended Popular Tracks for Enjoying the Mid-Autumn Full Moon (31–40)
On a full-moon nightaimyon
Singer-songwriter Aimyon has carved out a one-of-a-kind presence with her nostalgic sound and lyrically inventive perspective.
Her major-label 4th single, “If It’s a Full Moon Night,” features a brisk, tight acoustic guitar sound.
The lyrics are sensual yet stylish; even without the word “moon,” they conjure the heightened emotions of a full-moon scene.
It’s an emotional pop tune whose sexy yet exhilarating sound and melody linger in your ears.
Prince of the Night and the Princess of the MoonSento Chihiro Chitti (BiSH)
This is a cover of “The Night Prince and the Moon Princess,” a song that has been performed since the GOING STEADY era and continued by GING NANG BOYZ, sung here by BiSH’s Cent Chihiro Chitti.
Many of you may be familiar with the original version.
The lyrics are difficult to grasp on a single listen, but they’re sprinkled with words that evoke the night sky—like the moon and stars—so it’s perfect for moon viewing.
It’s slow-tempo and easy to listen to, and it might be nice to lie down somewhere and enjoy a sense of openness while you listen.
There’s also a theory that the lyrics make sense if you interpret them with Night on the Galactic Railroad in mind.
If you’re curious, be sure to check it out.
moonlightDREAMS COME TRUE
The music unit DREAMS COME TRUE has continued to captivate fans for many years since their debut with overwhelming vocal prowess and hook-filled songs.
“Moonlight,” included on their 9th album SING OR DIE, is beautiful from its opening, where a deep ensemble rides on a triple meter.
The lyrics, which evoke a spiritual message, combined with the moon as a fantastical presence, draw you in, don’t they? With its mystical arrangement and the exquisite contrast between soulful vocals and melody, it’s a hidden gem that evokes the moon.
azure moonEvery Little Thing
Ever since their debut, the music duo Every Little Thing has turned out hit after hit and continues to be highly active today.
Their 29th single, “azure moon,” used as the ending theme for the quiz variety show “Quiz Discovery Variety Itte Q!,” is notable for its expansive ensemble featuring delicate acoustic guitar arpeggios.
The lyrics, which depict the warmth of the moon watching over life, blend with the dreamlike arrangement to create a gentle, embracing feel.
It’s a dramatic ballad whose clear, pure vocals shape its distinctive world.
Sea urchin and chestnutzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.
“Uni and Chestnuts,” sung by the music unit ZUTOMAYO (Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni.), which began their activities by posting videos on YouTube, is a track included on their 2018 album “Tadashii Itsuwari kara no Kishō.” It’s a highly acclaimed work, having ranked 8th on the Oricon album chart and being selected as a winner for the CD Shop Awards.
The intro featuring a toy piano has an adorable sound, and it pairs perfectly with vocalist ACA-ne’s voice!
Songs to listen to for moon viewing: Classic and recommended popular tracks to enjoy the Mid-Autumn Full Moon (41–50)
MOON PRIDEMomoiro Kurōbā Zetto
“MOON PRIDE” is the 12th single by Momoiro Clover Z, released in 2014.
It was written as the theme song for the TV Asahi anime Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Crystal and reached No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart.
With lyrics celebrating the strength of fighting girls and a driving sound, it’s a track that fills you with courage as you listen.
Be sure to play it on the night of the full harvest moon, and let it fire you up for work or study the next day!
Crescent Moon SunsetSakanakushon
Sakanaction is a five-piece rock band that captivates fans with their meticulous commitment to sound, both live and in the studio.
“Mikazuki Sunset,” included on their debut album GO TO THE FUTURE, is a track they’ve been performing since their pre-major days as the precursor band, Dutchman.
The lyrics, which evoke the image of the moon appearing as the sun sets, convey a desire to change something even while struggling through the repetition of everyday life.
It’s a stylish pop tune whose tight yet expansive sound echoes the moon’s mystique.