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How the Jade Rabbit became part of Mid-Autumn Festival traditions in China, Japan and more
The pet of moon goddess Chang’e in Chinese mythology, the Jade Rabbit is associated with Mid-Autumn Festival traditions across Asia
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From Mayan and Greek to Chinese, many civilisations with roots in ancient times have worshipped the moon.
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The practice is likely to have stemmed from ancient people’s respect for nature and curiosity for astronomy. Shaped by their unique cultural beliefs – and plenty of imagination – lore and myths were created and passed down through generations.
Today, various cultures across Asia have their own festivals around this time of the year linked to the moon that primarily celebrate the autumn season of harvest and thanksgiving.
In Hong Kong, the Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the major annual holidays, with festivities ranging from admiring the full moon and lighting paper lanterns to sharing mooncakes and fruit with friends, family and loved ones.
The Chinese iteration of the festival’s origin revolves around the mythology of Chang’e, a lunar goddess who lives on the moon in the Moon Palace with her pet Yu Tu (“jade rabbit”).
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