Setsubun - February 3rd (Japan)

Setsubun is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on February 3rd, the day before the start of spring in the old calendar. The name literally means "seasonal division," but it primarily refers to the ritual of driving away evil spirits and welcoming good fortune for the new year.

Key Setsubun Traditions

• Mamemaki (Bean Throwing): This is the most well-known custom of Setsubun. Roasted soybeans (fuku-mame or "fortune beans") are thrown out of the house while chanting "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" ("Demons out! Fortune in!"). This ritual is believed to drive away evil spirits (oni) and invite good luck into the home. The head of the household, often dressed as an oni, may also be playfully pelted with beans.
• Eating Ehomaki: Another popular custom is eating ehomaki, a long, uncut sushi roll. It is eaten whole while facing the "lucky direction" (eho), which changes each year according to the zodiac. Eating it in silence is said to bring good fortune.
• Decorating with Holly and Sardine Heads: In some regions, people decorate their doorways with holly branches and grilled sardine heads (hiiragi iwashi) to ward off evil spirits. The prickly holly and the pungent smell of the sardine are believed to deter demons.
• Visiting Shrines and Temples: Many shrines and temples hold Setsubun festivals with special rituals, such as bean-throwing ceremonies where celebrities or sumo wrestlers participate.

Learn More About Setsubun:

• Wikipedia: Setsubun