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One of the true joys of train travel is the natural drama unfolding beyond the window. In the early hours of September 8, a “reddish copper full moon” will float in the darkness blanketing Japan, shining like the headlight of a special train. For the first time in three years, since November 2022, the entire country will be able to witness a total lunar eclipse. Will you board this “Night Train” and ride into the magical spectacle? (🔗National Astronomical Observatory of Japan)

🕐 Departure: Midnight, September 8

The full moon, which rises on the evening of September 7, will begin to dim at 1:27 a.m. on the 8th. Like the departure chime of a train, the celestial show will quietly begin its journey from that moment.

🌑 Through the Tunnel—Into Totality

Not a red tunnel of brick, but the Earth’s shadow completely enveloping the moon. Here begins the highlight of this “Night Train.”
From 2:30 a.m. to 3:53 a.m., the total lunar eclipse will unfold. Light bent through Earth’s atmosphere will paint the moon a coppery red. Relax by the window and savor the sight of the full moon glowing in “shakudō-iro,” the deep red of Japanese copper.

🗾 Viewing Heights from Different “Stations”

The further north the “train” travels, the lower the moon appears above the horizon.

• Tokyo: about 24.2°

• Sapporo: about 19.5°

• Fukuoka & Naha: higher in the sky, offering clearer views

Like different views from each station window, the experience varies across regions.

🌅 Terminus: A Reunion at Dawn

At 4:57 a.m., the partial eclipse ends and the full moon shines again, arriving at the train’s final stop. With the afterglow of totality still lingering, the moon is reborn in brilliance, like a train ready to depart once more into the morning light.

🪐 Bonus Track: “Encounter with Saturn”

After setting, the moon rises again on the evening of September 8—this time with Saturn right beside it. By around 2:00 a.m. on the 9th, the two will appear only about 3.2° apart. 🌙＋🪐 A perfect celestial two-shot not to be missed.

✨ In Closing

“Total Lunar Eclipse Night Train 2025”
Look up at the moon from the window of this imaginary night train, and let yourself be wrapped in quiet awe. With binoculars, the colors will be even richer, and don’t forget to bring a camera 📷 to capture the moment.