For over a millennium, moon-gazing has been central to Mid-Autumn Festival traditions. This year's celestial spectacle promises to be extraordinary as a rare supermoon coincides with the festival on October 6, offering skywatchers across the Chinese mainland and other Asian regions an enhanced lunar display.
Astronomers explain that a supermoon occurs when the moon reaches its closest orbital point to Earth (perigee) during its full phase, appearing up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than average full moons. Clear autumn skies are expected to provide optimal viewing conditions in many areas.
Prime observation locations include:
West Lake in Hangzhou, where pagoda reflections create poetic moonlit landscapes
The Great Wall near Beijing, offering unobstructed horizon views
Lijiang's ancient waterways in Yunnan province, framed by traditional architecture
Resorts in Hainan Island, combining beachfront vistas with festive celebrations
Residents of Taiwan and Hong Kong may also enjoy the phenomenon from elevated viewpoints like Taipei's Elephant Mountain and Victoria Peak. Cultural experts note the event's special significance, as lunar symbolism features prominently in Asian philosophies of reunion and harmony.
