
Guide to Setsubun
The temperatures outside may still feel like deep winter, but Setsubun — celebrated annually on February 2, 3, or 4 — marks the transition from winter to spring on the lunar calendar. Setsubun, which translates to “seasonal division,” is a lively and meaningful tradition steeped in history and culture. Beyond its calendar significance, it’s a popular celebration with rituals to cast out misfortune and invite prosperity into homes and lives. Here’s a brief overview of one of Japan’s most popular celebrations and where to experience the festivities!
1. The origins of Setsubun

Setsubun originated in China as a custom to drive out malevolent spirits to protect against misfortune and disease. It was introduced to Japan during the Heian period (794–1185) and gradually evolved into the Setsubun of today: a family-friendly event celebrated with gusto at homes, schools, shrines, and temples across the country.
One of the most iconic Setsubun celebrations takes place at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. It is said that Senso-ji was the first place Setsubun became accessible to the masses, a significant shift that transformed the event from an aristocratic practice to a celebration for all.
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2. The bean-throwing ritual

Central to Setsubun is the custom of mamemaki, or bean-throwing, a practice that embodies both spiritual symbolism and playful energy. During mamemaki, roasted soybeans are tossed while participants chat “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!” which translates to “Demons out; fortune in!” This symbolic act is believed to purify the space, driving away evil spirits and inviting good fortunes into homes and communities.
In some households, a family member will assume the role of the oni (demon) by wearing an oni mask during mamemaki. It’s a lively ritual sure to bring laughter, connection, and shared hope for a prosperous year. After throwing the beans, it is customary to eat the same number of them as your age, plus one more for good luck in the coming year (also because the traditional way of counting one’s age was different in the old times). This practice is believed to foster personal health and prosperity.
3. Setsubun at temples and shrines

While mamemaki at home is common, shrines and temples often hold larger public ceremonies. These events sometimes feature local celebrities, sumo wrestlers, or geisha participating in the bean-throwing rituals, which elevate the festivities to a grand spectacle. Guests may also catch small packets of soybeans or candy thrown by participants, symbolizing blessings for the year ahead.
● Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo
Located in the heart of Asakusa, Senso-ji Temple hosts one of Japan's most famous Setsubun events. Thousands of visitors join the mamemaki ceremony, including celebrities invited to throw soybeans from an elevated stage. The bustling Nakamise Street that leads to Senso-ji adds to the festive atmosphere, with food stalls and traditional sweets making this an unforgettable experience.
● Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto
Yasaka Shrine combines the bean-throwing ritual with lively performances, traditional dances, and music. The area’s geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) join in the celebrations.
● Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, Chiba
This temple’s Setsubun celebrations are a grand affair, drawing large crowds. Special guests, including sumo wrestlers and celebrities, participate in the mamemaki, adding an exciting touch to the tradition.
● Zojo-ji Temple, Tokyo
Zojo-ji Temple’s celebration includes prayers for prosperity and health, followed by a dynamic bean-throwing ceremony.
● Nagata Shrine, Hyogo
This shrine hosts an elaborate Setsubun ceremony during which people dressed as oni dance with torches to burn away misfortune. The festival has been designated as one of the prefecture's Intangible Folk Cultural Assets.
4. Celebrating Setsubun at home

While temple events are spectacular, Setsubun is just as meaningful when celebrated at home. Many families eat ehomaki, a special sushi roll filled with ingredients like tamagoyaki (sweet egg), cucumber, and unagi (eel). These rolls are eaten silently, facing the year’s “lucky direction” determined by the Chinese zodiac, to ensure fortune. The act is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Supermarkets and convenience stores across Japan prepare beautifully wrapped ehomaki during this time, making it easy for families to join in the tradition.
For visitors to Japan during Setsubun, participating in a home-style celebration is a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture on a personal level. Whether it’s throwing beans at a family member dressed as a demon or savoring a freshly prepared ehomaki, the warmth and joy of this tradition remain universal!