What is Setsubun? It literally translates to “seasonal division”, and is a traditional Japanese festival that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. It is a time for driving away evil spirits and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead.
Setsubun is typically celebrated on February 3rd each year, though the exact date can vary slightly depending on the lunar calendar. It may occasionally fall on February 2nd or 4th.
Setsubun, although just looks like a fun day for the kids, is actually significant in Japanese culture for several reasons:
- It is a time of purification and renewal at the turn of the seasons.
- It is a cultural event marking the seasonal transition from winter to spring.
- It preserves ancient customs in a modern context and passes down traditions from generation to generation.
- It reinforces cultural identity and shared experiences.
- It is a time for community bonding, with family celebrations and public events fostering a sense of belonging.
- It heightens awareness of seasonal changes and connects people to natural cycles.
- It is an opportunity to leave worries behind and make a fresh start, similar to the Lunar New Year.
The rituals and customs associated with Setsubun are thought to cleanse the nation and its people from past misfortunes, ushering in a year of health and happiness. The festival blends traditional beliefs with modern celebrations and holds an important place in Japanese culture. And of course, it is a fun way to introduce some Japanese culture to the kids! (I have a printable below to help you with that)
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The Historical Background of Setsubun
Okay, let’s delve into the historical background of Setsubun.
Where did the tradition of Setsubun originate?
The tradition of Setsubun has its roots in ancient Chinese customs, specifically a ritual called “Tsuina”. The ceremony was performed at the imperial court on New Year’s Eve to drive away evil spirits and disease.
The “Tsuina” ritual involved people wearing masks and making noise to scare away malevolent forces. This practice was introduced to Japan during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The Japanese history bookShoku Nihongirecords thattsuinawas first held in Japan in 706.
Initially,tsuinawas an event to drive away evil spirits that brought misfortune and disease by decorating the palace gates with clay figures of cows and children, as well as peach branches and walking sticks.
How has it evolved over time?
- Early Stages in Japan: Initially, theTsuinaritual was an elite practice limited to the nobility. It was held at the court on the last day of the year according to the lunar-solar calendar.
- Kamakura Period (1185-1333):The ritual was adopted by Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.
- Muromachi Period (1336-1573):The practice of bean-throwing (mamemaki) became a part of the ritual. The custom ofmamemakifirst appeared in the Muromachi period. A legend from the 10th century states that a monk on Mt. Kurama escaped misfortune by blindingoni(demons) with roasted beans. The word for bean,mame, can also be written as ‘devil’s eye’, and is similar tomametsu, meaning ‘to destroy the devil’.
- Edo Period (1603-1867):Setsubun customs shifted from New Year’s Eve to the day before the beginning of Spring and spread to samurai families and the public. The custom of tying roasted sardine heads to holly sprigs to decorate the gates of houses also began during this period to scare awayoni. The custom of eatingehōmaki(lucky direction sushi rolls) began in the geisha districts.
- Modern Setsubun: Setsubun remains an important cultural event, marking the seasonal transition from winter to spring. It has also become highly commercialised, with special foods and events at temples and shrines.
You will find masks and packs of dried beans at all supermarkets and convenience stores on the run up to Setsubun.
Today the most common ritual is throwing roasted beans while shouting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” and eating a number of beans corresponding to one’s age, plus one for good luck. Eatingehomakiwhile facing the lucky direction is another widespread custom.Setsubunis also celebrated at home with families doing the bean throwing and eatingehomaki.
The Rituals of Setsubun
What ismamemaki(bean-throwing), and why is it done?
Mamemaki, literally meaning “bean scattering,” is the central ritual of Setsubun. It involves throwing roasted soybeans (fukumame, or ‘fortune beans’) either out the front door, at a member of the family wearing anoni(demon or ogre) mask, or at temples and shrines.
The primary purpose ofmamemakiis to drive away evil spirits (oni) that are thought to bring misfortune and bad health, and to welcome good fortune and health for the coming year. The act of throwing beans is believed to purify the home.
Roasted soybeans are used because they were believed to have purifying powers that could ward off evil. Also, the Japanese word for bean,mame, is similar to the word for “demon eyes” (魔目), creating a symbolic connection. There is a belief that the pronunciation ofmameis similar to that ofmametsu, meaning ‘to destroy the devil’.
After throwing the beans, (you should keep some aside) it is customary toeat some of the soybeans, one for each year of one’s life, plus one more for bringing good luck for the year. This tradition is believed to ward off sickness for the upcoming year.
Often kids will have fun doing the ritual at kindergarten (yochien or hoikuen) but sometimes soy beans will be switched for peanuts. If you child has allergies, it is a good idea to ask ahead of time what they will be using. A friend had quite a shock when she discovered in her area of Japan peanuts are used instead of soybeans and so she had to keep her kid at home for the day due to his allergies.
Who traditionally performs the bean-throwing?
Traditionally,mamemakiwas performed by either a man of the household born in the corresponding zodiac year for the new year (toshiotoko), or else the male head of the household. Thetoshiotokois considered particularly auspicious. However, this tradition has expanded to include women, known astoshi onna, in the name of gender equality.
These days, many families involve every family member, including children, in the bean-throwing ceremony. At public events, priests, local celebrities, sumo wrestlers, and invited guests often perform the bean throwing.
In some areas in the Kansai region, such as Kyoto, apprentice geisha may also participate by throwing packets of roasted soybeans after performing a dance.
What do people chant during the ritual?
During themamemakiritual, people shout“Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!“. This phrase translates to“Devils out! Fortune in!”. It is a declaration meant to banish negative forces (oni) and welcome positive energy (fuku) for the coming year.
Some regions use variations of this chant. For example, in the city of Aizuwakamatsu, people chantOni no medama buttsubuse!, which means ‘Blind the demons’ eyes!’. At Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, the chant is changed to “Senshuu banzei fuku wa uchi” (Long life and good fortune, enter!) because worshippers believe that demons cannot come near the goddess to whom the temple is dedicated.
Cultural and Symbolic Elements of Setsubun celebrations
Why are roasted soybeans used in the ritual?
Roasted soybeans, known asfukumame(fortune beans), are used in themamemakiritual for several reasons:
- Purification:They are believed to have purifying powers capable of warding off evil spirits and negative energy.
- Symbolism:The Japanese word for bean,mame(豆), can also be written as ‘devil’s eye’ (魔目). There’s also a similarity in pronunciation tomametsu(魔滅), which means ‘to destroy the devil’. This linguistic connection reinforces the bean’s role in vanquishing evil.
- Practicality: In ancient times it was tradition to roast the beans to prevent them from sprouting. An old belief says that it is bad luck for a bean to sprout from a bean that was forgotten to be picked up after themamemaki.
- Sacred food:In Japan,mameare considered a sacred food item, and were considered more effective at defeating evil spirits than rice.
- Health and good luck:After the bean-throwing, it is customary to eat the same number of beans as your age, plus one more for good luck and health.
What does theoni(demon/ogre) represent in Setsubun?
In Setsubun, theoni(鬼), or demon/ogre, represents evil spirits, misfortune, and negative forces.Oniare believed to bring illness and bad luck.Oniare often depicted as fearsome creatures with red or blue skin, horns, and tusks, drawing from Chinese and Japanese folklore.
They are believed to appear in the direction ofUshi-Tora(northeast), which falls in the middle of the night, explaining the custom of throwing beans at night. Theonican also be associated with the five hindrances of Buddhism, with different coloured demons representing different obstacles:
- red demons (aka oni) symbolise greed
- blue demons (ao oni) denote sadness and anger
- yellow or white demons (kiiro oni) symbolize restlessness
- green demons (midori oni) represent laziness
- black demons (kuro oni) represent indecisiveness. If you can’t decide which colour mask to wear, go for black!
During Setsubun rituals, theoniare often portrayed by men wearing oni masks at public ceremonies or by fathers within the household during private celebrations.
What is the significance of inviting good fortune and driving away evil?
The act of inviting good fortune and driving away evil is central to the purpose of Setsubun. It is a time for a fresh start.
Driving away evil:Mamemakiis done to drive away any wandering spirits that might cause misfortune and bad health, and is a symbolic way of purifying the home. The tradition of hanging sardine heads and holly sprigs at the entrance of houses is also meant to deter evil spirits. It’s very rare to see this in practice these days, which I’m happy about, I hate fish!
Inviting good fortune:By chanting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!“, people express a desire to banish negative energy and welcome positive energy for the new season. Eatingehomaki, a special sushi roll, in the lucky direction is also done to attract good luck.
Seasonal transition:Setsubun marks the transition from winter to spring, a time when the spirit world is thought to be close to the physical world. It’s a time for cleansing and renewal, and warding off potential negative influences, to pave the way for good health, prosperity and happiness in the coming year. Just as many old rituals around the world, it is a time to celebrate surviving the winter and welcoming the spring.
Ehomaki: A Modern Tradition
What areehomakirolls, and how did they become associated with Setsubun?
You might not see holly sardine around when you visit Japan but you will see. Ehomakiare uncut makizushi rolls, a type of sushi where ingredients are rolled into a tight rice cylinder, covered in seaweed. The nameehomakiliterally translates to “lucky direction roll”.
Ehomakiare a relatively modern tradition associated with Setsubun, though the custom of eating uncut sushi rolls on this day started in the Edo period, specifically in the geisha districts. It is thought that they were originally calledmarukaburi zushiorfutomaki zushi.
Of course, the supermarkets and conbini have got onboard with this so you don’t have to make your own at home. I suggest you do, it is more fun!
The custom is believed to have originated in the Kansai region, particularly Osaka, and has spread throughout Japan due to marketing efforts by grocery and convenience stores. The nameehomakimay have become popular in 1989 when a Japanese convenience store chain began selling them under that name.
The tradition involves eating theehomakiwhole, in silence, and while facing a specific year’s lucky direction, to pray for prosperity and happiness. It is said to bring good luck if eaten properly.
How do people choose the direction to face while eatingehomaki?
The direction to face while eatingehomakiis determined by the lucky compass direction of the year, which is based on the zodiac symbol of that year.
The lucky direction changes annually. For example:
- In 2024, the lucky direction is east-northeast.
- In 2022, the lucky direction was north-northwest.
- In 2025, the lucky direction will be west-southwest.
It is believed that facing the correct direction while eating theehomakiis crucial for receiving the intended good fortune.
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If you are doing this at home, you might want to rearrange your seating at the table to catch the mess or maybe have a ‘picnic’ on a mat on the floor just to make it easier.
What are some common fillings forehomaki?
Traditionally,ehomakicontain seven fillings, representing the Seven Gods of Fortune (Shichifukujin).
Although the number of ingredients is more important than the specific types, pick and choose whatever you fancy. Some common fillings include:
- Freshwater or saltwater eel (anagoorunagi)
- Egg (tamago)
- Shrimp (ebi)
- Cucumber (kyuri)
- Shiitake mushrooms
- Kanpyo(dried gourd strips)
- Denbu(sweet fish flakes)
The fillings can vary, and people often choose their favourite ingredients while ensuring they include seven to lock in the elements of good health, happiness and prosperity. If you are making them at home, it’s fun to have a choice and the kids can build their own. Obviously, in Japan this is all pretty much staple food, you can use what you have available to you.
Do different parts of Japan celebrate Setsubun differently?
Yes, like many Japanese holidays, Setsubun is celebrated with many regional variations across the country. While the core traditions ofmamemaki(bean throwing) and eatingehomaki(lucky direction sushi rolls) are widespread, specific practices, foods, and rituals differ from region to region.
The differences reflect the unique history, geography and local traditions of the various regions. If you have Japanese friends, ask them how they celebrate where they live. Often places in the countryside still hold onto the old ways whereas the big cities tend to have a blended tradition.
Tohoku Region (the north): In this region, the head of the household (traditionally the father) would take roasted beans, pray at the family shrine, and then toss the sanctified beans out the door. Peanuts (either raw or coated in a sweet, crunchy batter) are sometimes used instead of soybeans formamemaki.
Kanto Region: In some areas,kenchinjiru, a clear vegetable soup made with root vegetables, tofu, shiitake mushrooms and kombu stock, is eaten on Setsubun.Shimotsukare, a dish made with salmon heads, vegetables, and fried soybeans, is also eaten in this region.
Kansai Region: This region has several unique customs. The tradition of eatingehomakioriginated in this region. A did hanging holly sprigs with sardine heads (hiiragi iwashi) at the entrance to a house to ward off evil spirits is a custom in this area. Drinking tea with kelp and sardines is another custom.
Western Japan: Eating sardines on Setsubun is a practice particularly observed in this region, with less prevalence in Eastern Japan.
Variations on theOni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!chant:
There are regional variations of this chant. For example, in the city of Aizuwakamatsu, people chant “Oni no medama buttsubuse!“, which translates to “Blind the demons’ eyes!”
How To Join In The Setsubun Celebrations?
I have put together a printable, available in the free 193 Little Adventures library. So that you can have everything you need to celebrate the bean throwing on setsubun day. It includes instructions on how to make the lucky direction sushi roll and a oni (demon mask). Just sign up for the library, once you are in, head to Asia and you can download the printable from there. There are also lots of other geography and culture printables available in there.
If you are in Japan, check your local shrine or temple to see if they have any specific setsubun festival events on.
You can also pick up a bean throwing kit from the supermarket and they will have lucky direction rolls for sale, don’t leave it too late to pick them up though!
Little Known Setsubun Facts
Let’s wrap up with some quirky and unusual facts about Setsubun, as well as modern pop culture references:
The Watanabe Family Exception: There is a tradition thatoni(demons) stay away from people named Watanabe and their houses. This is because Watanabe no Tsuna, a samurai of Minamoto no Yorimitsu, is associated with a legend of vanquishingoni. He apparently got in a fight with one of the strongest oni and cut off its arm! As a result, some families with the surname Watanabe have not practiced the custom of throwing beans on Setsubun for generations. The surname Watanabe is the fifth most common surname in Japan.
The Sound of Drums: In the 13th century, people would drive away evil spirits with the strong smell of burning dried sardine heads, the smoke of burning wood and the noise of drums. While not popular anymore, (thankfully) some people still decorate their house entrances with fish heads and holy tree leaves.
Welcoming Entertainers: Traveling entertainers, who were normally shunned during the year, were welcomed on Setsubun to perform morality plays because they were considered taking evil spirits with them when they left.
Bean Sprout Superstition: There is an old tradition that it is unlucky for a soybean to sprout from a bean that has been forgotten after the bean-throwing ceremony, which is why the beans are roasted.
Lucky Direction Drinking: In Tochigi Prefecture, there is a custom of “ehonomi” (lucky direction drinking), where people enjoy new seasonal sake brews while facing the lucky direction. Any excuse for a new drinking game!
Regional Food Variations: Besides soybeans andehomaki, a variety of other foods are eaten during Setsubun depending on the region, including:
- Peanuts (Hokkaido and Tōhoku region)
- Kenchin-jiruandshimotsukare(Kanto region)
- Tea with kelp and sardines (Kansai region)
- Konjaku (Shikoku region)
- Sea cucumber (Oki Islands)
- Whale (San’in region)
Modern pop culture references or adaptations of Setsubun emerged
Nike Dunk Low “Setsubun”: Because there is nothing that says traditional bean throwing like a pair of trainers! Nike released a special edition sneaker, theNike Dunk Low “Setsubun,” which celebrates the festival. The design of the sneaker incorporates elements of the bean-throwing ritual, and it has become a sought-after item among sneaker enthusiasts.
Commercialisation: In recent years, Setsubun has become a highly commercialised event in modern Japan. Stores sell special Setsubun sets with roasted soybean packs andonimasks.
Celebrity Appearances: Many Setsubun festivals feature celebrities, sumo wrestlers, and politicians throwing beans, which is often televised.
Modern Adaptations: Some people adapt the traditions of Setsubun to make them more accessible in modern contexts. For example, some may use shelled peanuts instead of soybeans for the bean-throwing to mitigate health and safety risks. Soy allergies are more prevalent in Japan than peanuts.
What is setsubun? – Wrap Up
In a nutshell, it’s a fun Japanese festival and a great way to introduce as a culture lesson for kids. An although Setsubun is not a national holiday in Japan, Setsubun is still widely celebrated across the country at homes, schools, workplaces, and local temples and shrines. Many shrines and temples hold special events and ceremonies to mark the occasion.
If you want to celebrate with you kids grab the printable from the 193 library below. And if you want to learn more about Japan, we have a 193 Little Adventure to Japan available in the shop.
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Jo Ebisujima
I’m your friendly guide to a life of passion and productivity. I focus on supporting moms who want to turn their dreams into reality by building businesses that revolve around their families. I do this through the Wonder Mom Success Club.
I’m also the brains behind the 193 Little Adventures Club where we take your family on a virtual adventure to a new country every month. And a Montessori best-selling author.
I’m on a mission to inspire and help you, all while having a ton of fun along the way.
