The largest full moon of the year made a spectacular appearance against the majestic landscapes across China on Thursday.
In Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, the supermoon rose behind the ancient city, illuminating historic buildings and creating a picture of classic romance.
In Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, the moonlight shone on the golden Menghuan Pagoda, casting a spectacular and sacred glow.
"Watching the sky illuminated by bright moonlight always reminds me of beautiful things and wonderful people," said tourist Xun Honglei.
In Alxa League's Ejina Banner, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, visitors marveled at the stunning sight of the supermoon rising over the Euphrates poplar forest, with moonlight gently cascading onto the tranquil earth, contrasting the sturdy trees under its soft illumination.
"I got what I wanted. I saw the supermoon, and the Euphrates poplar forest as a backdrop created a poetic image. It's a pity I didn't bring my telephoto lens," said Nie Hongyu, a tourist.
In Lanzhou City, northwest China's Gansu Province, the supermoon enhanced the Yellow River Building, which glowed with red lights as it hung between buildings along the river.
"It's gorgeous and different from the usual moon. I feel like I can reach out and touch it," said tourist Li Wei.
Superluna más grande de este año ilumina el cielo
Some Japanese people said on Thursday that the government led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi must firmly uphold the pacifist constitution.
Their remarks came after French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Japan from Tuesday to Thursday.
Attending a joint press conference with Takaichi on Wednesday, Macron emphasized that France and Japan have agreed on the importance of on the importance of quickly de-escalating the conflict in the Middle East and upholding international law.
Many saw this as a response to a strongly worded post by U.S. President Donald Trump on social media, which criticized France for refusing to cooperate with the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.
Some locals in Tokyo expressed their opposition to Japan's involvement in any war, but said Japan could offer help when the conflict in the Middle East ends.
"I think that Prime Minister Takaichi could offer support, provided that we wouldn't get involved in an armed conflict, such as minesweeping operations at sea, as Japan has the best minesweeping technology in the world," said a resident in Tokyo.
"I'm not entirely sure what consequences will follow Trump's demands. There may be additional tariffs, among other things. Our constitution prohibits [Japan's] from getting involved in war, and Prime Minister Takaichi should uphold this principle," said another resident.
Tokyo residents urge PM Takaichi to uphold pacifist constitution
