How to Enjoy Setsubun: Experience Japan’s Traditional Festival!

     When you visit Japan in early February, you will see scenes of people throwing beans and eating a special sushi roll called “Eho-maki.” This is part of a traditional Japanese event known as “Setsubun,” which celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring according to the old lunar calendar. In this article, we will introduce how to enjoy Setsubun.

What is Setsubun?

Setsubun, which means “seasonal division,” is a Japanese event with a long history. It involves activities like “mame-maki” (throwing beans) to drive away evil spirits and eating “Eho-maki” (a special sushi roll) to bring in good fortune, all in hopes of ensuring a year of happiness. While it has traditional significance, Setsubun is also enjoyed as a fun event with family and friends. Although it typically takes place on February 3rd, Setsubun will be on February 2nd this year.

How to Enjoy Setsubun

1. Mame-maki (Bean Throwing)

     The main event of Setsubun is mame-maki, or bean throwing. People throw roasted soybeans (fukumame) at individuals dressed as demons, or at the outside of their homes, while chanting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (“Out with the demons! In with the good fortune!”). This ritual is believed to drive away evil spirits and bring luck into the home and heart.

Source：http://www.imamiya.jp/haruhanakyoko/season/sb.htm

In Japan, public mame-maki events are held at famous shrines and temples, such as Asakusa Temple in Tokyo and Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. It is said that if you catch the beans thrown during these events, you will receive even more good fortune, so be sure to give it a try!

Additionally, supermarkets and stores in Japan sell Setsubun-related products. These include fukumame for bean throwing, sweets made with beans, and products packaged with cute demon designs. If you see them, don’t hesitate to pick them up!

2. Ehomaki (Fortune Sushi Roll)

     Another tradition of Setsubun is eating “Ehomaki,” a type of thick sushi roll. The key feature of this sushi is that it is eaten whole, without being cut, symbolizing the idea of not cutting off good fortune.

When eating Ehomaki, it is said that facing the year’s lucky direction and eating in silence will bring good fortune. This year’s lucky direction is west-southwest! For a boost of luck, try eating while facing west-southwest and making a wish!

Recommended Places to Buy Ehomaki

• Supermarkets: Many supermarkets in Japan sell Ehomaki during the Setsubun season, offering a range of options from simple to luxurious rolls.

• Convenience Stores: Stores like Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart also sell Ehomaki as a seasonal item, making it easy to pick up and enjoy.

Conclusion

Setsubun is a wonderful opportunity to experience Japanese culture and traditions. Whether you participate in a mame-maki event with family and friends or enjoy eating Ehomaki, immerse yourself in this traditional festival and create unforgettable memories!