Why are soybeans used during the Setsubun-sai Festival?

Soybeans are thrown in a ritual called "mamemaki" to symbolize the expulsion of demons and negativity. The act of throwing beans is believed to cleanse and purify, bringing good luck.

Why do people wear oni masks during the Setsubun-sai Festival?

Oni masks represent demons, and wearing them during the festival allows participants to symbolically drive away these evil spirits by throwing beans at the mask-wearer.

How do people celebrate Setsubun-sai at home?

Families celebrate by performing the mamemaki ritual, eating a special sushi roll called "ehomaki," and facing a lucky direction while eating it for good fortune.

Tokyo

Setsubun-sai (Setsubun) Festival

Administrative Area Level 1Political

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Setsubun-sai, or Setsubun, is a traditional Japanese event held on February 3rd to mark the end of winter and the start of spring. The name "Setsubun" means "seasonal division." The festival's main activity is the "mamemaki" ritual, where roasted soybeans are thrown to drive away evil spirits and bring good fortune. People shout, "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" which means "Demons out! Luck in!" Families often have someone wear an oni (demon) mask while another throws beans at them to symbolize chasing away negativity. The beans are later eaten, with each person eating the same number as their age to invite good luck for the coming year.

The festival is celebrated at temples and homes across Japan. It's not just about the rituals; it’s a time for family gatherings and enjoying special foods like "ehomaki," a type of sushi roll eaten while facing a lucky direction. Setsubun is a fun and lively event that combines tradition with community spirit, making it a cherished part of Japanese culture.