月影踊り会
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The Meaning of Tsukikage Odorikai

The Jōdo-shū founder, St. Hōnen, wrote a poem entitled Tsukikage:
月影の いたらぬ里は なけれども 眺むる人の 心にぞすむ

In English, translations vary. Here is one that shows the compassion of Hōnen to all living creatures as all are touched by the light of the Moon, regardless of station or status:

Though the moon shines all over the world
Leaving no corner in darkness,
Only those who gaze upon the moon
Appreciate its serene light.

The word Tsukikage translates literally to Moon's Shadow or Moonlight Glow.

Our mascot is the rabbit, and in Asian culture it is believed that when gazing upon the full moon one is able to see the immortal rabbit who lives there making the elixir of life.

As the Bon Odori takes place at night, under the light of the Moon, we thought it appropriate to incorporate that idea into our name. Thus our name is Tsukikage Odorikai, which means Moonlight Dance Club or Association.


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