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    What is Setsubun (節分)?

    Setsubun (節分) is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on February 3rd, the day before the start of spring according to the old lunar calendar. Its name literally means "seasonal division," marking the transition from winter to spring. The main purpose of the festival is to drive away evil spirits and bad luck from the previous year and welcome good fortune for the new one.

    The most famous custom of Setsubun is mamemaki (豆まき), or "bean scattering." People throw roasted soybeans out their doors or windows while chanting the phrase:

    • "Oni wa soto!" (鬼は外！ - "Demons out!")

    • "Fuku wa uchi!" (福は内！ - "Fortune in!"）

    This ritual is believed to purify the house and ward off evil. After scattering the beans, people eat a number of roasted soybeans equal to their age to ensure good health for the year.

    Another popular tradition is eating ehomaki (恵方巻), a long, uncut sushi roll. To ensure good luck, you must eat the entire roll in silence while facing the year's "lucky direction." The lucky direction changes every year.

    Today, Setsubun is a fun and lively event, especially for families with children, who often wear demon masks while their parents or grandparents throw beans at them. It's a wonderful way to welcome spring and wish for a year of happiness and prosperity.

    The History and Meaning Behind Setsubun

    The History and Meaning Behind Setsubun

    While modern celebrations of Setsubun (節分) are lively and fun, the rituals are rooted in ancient Japanese traditions of purification and renewal. This festival, celebrated on February 3rd, marks the day before the official start of spring according to the old lunar calendar. Its very name, "Setsubun," literally means "seasonal division," signifying a pivotal moment of transition from the long winter into a new, hopeful season.

     

    Origins in the Old New Year

    In ancient times, the beginning of spring was considered the start of the new year. Therefore, Setsubun was viewed as a kind of New Year's Eve, a final chance to cleanse away the misfortune and evil spirits accumulated over the previous year before welcoming a fresh start. This practice was heavily influenced by ancient Chinese rituals for expelling evil spirits at the turn of a season.

    Children and Moral Lessons Through Setsubun

    Many Japanese parents use Setsubun to teach important values. The oni (demon) is portrayed as a symbol of bad behavior, lies, or selfishness. One touching moment I witnessed was a mother telling her child:

    “Today, we’re chasing away the oni inside us.”

    This showed me that Setsubun is not just about rituals—it’s about nurturing character and kindness.

    How to Enjoy Setsubun Today

    You don't have to be in Japan to participate in the spirit of Setsubun!

    • Attend a Temple or Shrine Event: Many temples and shrines host large-scale mamemaki events, often with celebrities or public figures throwing beans from a stage. It's a fun and exciting way to experience the festival firsthand.

    • Enjoy the Food: If you're visiting Japan, try a fresh ehomaki from a convenience store or supermarket. Or, find a traditional Japanese sweet shop to try some roasted soybeans.

    • Have a Family Celebration: In Japan, families often have one person dress up as an oni (demon) with a mask, while the others playfully throw beans at them. It's a fun and memorable way to celebrate the holiday with children.

    Setsubun is more than just a quirky festival; it's a powerful tradition that embodies the Japanese spirit of cleansing the past and welcoming a future filled with happiness and prosperity.

    FAQ – Everything You Wanted to Know About Setsubun

    Q1: Can tourists experience Setsubun in Japan?
    Yes! Many temples and shrines host public bean-throwing events, especially in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

    Q2: Is Setsubun a national holiday?
    No, it’s not an official public holiday, but it is widely observed throughout Japan.

    Q3: What is the 2025 lucky direction for ehōmaki?
    It changes every year according to the Chinese zodiac. For 2025, the lucky direction is [update based on year] (check local guides or convenience store flyers).

    Q4: Where can I buy Setsubun items?
    Look for items in supermarkets, convenience stores, or online stores starting from late January.

    Summary

    Setsubun (節分) is far more than throwing beans or eating sushi. It’s a powerful cultural expression of rebirth, protection, family unity, and the desire to begin the new season with good intentions.

    Whether you’re living in Japan or visiting, I encourage you to experience Setsubun firsthand. Join a bean-throwing event, try an ehōmaki in silence, or even wear a funny oni mask. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Japan’s rich, heartfelt traditions.

    If you're interested, feel free to contact us!