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I would like to introduce some background information on Japanese culture for non-Japanese readers to deepen their understanding of the story when reading "Kamisama Kiss".
Why did Mikage and Mizuki view the moon with Tomoe?
Otsukimi, literally meaning, "moon-viewing", also known as Jugoya, are Japanese festivals honoring the autumn moon, a variant of the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Originally, viewing the moon was important not only for watching the moon, but also as a festival. The Japanese in the old days offered thanks to 'Kami' (the spirits, phenomena or "holy powers" that are venerated in the Shintoism) for a good harvest in autumn.
Since ancient times, the Japanese have known the date of the moon by the ebb and flow of the moon, proceeded with farm work, and held festivals based on it. The Kami of the moon is also described in Japanese mythology, and people have felt that the moon is a Kami.
Therefore, the full moon night was a particularly important day as a milestone.
The offerings such as dumplings and the seven herbs of autumn worship the moon. Also, instead of the rice ears, which is the representative of the Moon Kami, the pampas grass are displayed.
In this story, Mikage sometimes enjoys Otsukimi (viewing the full moon). As aforementioned, this activity is not only because he enjoys viewing the moon but also because he feels Kami there.
Vol. 5, #25 is the episode immediately after Mizuki became Nanami's new Shinshi. Here, it is depicted that Mizuki had long wanted to see the moon with Tomoe. This is also a sign of Mizuki's desire to get closer to Kami with Tomoe.
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| Kamisama Kiss Vol.5 #25 |
"I've wanted to drink sake with you. Look, it's a full moon." (Kamisama Kiss Vol.5 #25)
In fact, after viewing the moon together, their hearts got a little closer.
