Setsubun

Origins and history

The custom traces back to an eighth-century Chinese exorcism called tsuina. Initially held at the imperial court, it involved decorating gates with clay figures and using peach branches to repel disease. By the Muromachi period, the practice shifted toward bean-throwing among aristocrats. A legend from the tenth century suggests a monk blinded demons with beans on Mount Kurama. Over time, commoners merged the court exorcism with this new rite. During the Edo period, the tradition spread widely across Japan. Households began hanging holly sprigs with sardine heads at entrances to frighten away malevolent forces using thorns and strong smells.

How it is kept

The central activity is mamemaki, or bean scattering. Participants shout 'Devils out! Fortune in!' while tossing roasted soybeans. They may throw them outside or at a family member wearing an ogre mask. Afterward, people eat one bean per year of their age plus one extra for luck. In temples and shrines, priests and celebrities distribute beans wrapped in foil or containing small prizes. Some families avoid this ritual if they bear the surname Watanabe, due to a historical legend about a demon-slaying warrior. Geisha in Kyoto also perform dances and toss beans to crowds during local festivals.

Food and drink

Eating ehōmaki, a thick uncut sushi roll, is a popular custom. People face the auspicious direction for the year and consume the entire roll in silence to pray for happiness. This practice originated in geisha districts and later gained national popularity through commercial marketing. Other regional foods include shōgazake, a ginger-flavored sake, and various local specialties. In some areas, people eat peanuts, soba noodles, or specific soups depending on their location. These meals are believed to bring health and prosperity as the seasons change.

Symbolism and meaning

Setsubun represents a boundary between seasons when the spirit world is close to the physical realm. The rituals aim to purify spaces and protect households from wandering spirits. Throwing beans symbolizes driving away bad health and misfortune. Eating beans internalizes purity and luck. Decorations like holly and sardines create barriers against evil. The celebration reinforces community bonds and personal resilience. It marks a fresh start, encouraging people to leave past troubles behind and embrace renewal. The focus remains on maintaining harmony and safety within the home and society.

How Setsubun is kept

Families gather to throw roasted soybeans while chanting phrases to expel demons. Some wear masks to represent the spirits being chased away. Others attend shrine festivals where priests distribute blessed beans. People eat specific foods like sushi rolls or ginger sake to seal the blessing. The head of the household often leads the prayers and bean-tossing. Communities in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto hold large public events with celebrity appearances.

When and where

It falls between February 2 and 4 annually, based on the traditional calendar. The date shifts slightly each year but always precedes the first day of spring, known as Risshun.

It is primarily observed throughout Japan. Major celebrations occur in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe. Regional variations exist, with different foods and chants used in areas like Tohoku and Kansai.

What Setsubun means

The ritual cleanses the home of negative energy and invites good fortune. Beans represent purity and strength against evil. Eating them absorbs that luck. The timing marks a critical transition in nature, requiring spiritual protection. It reflects a deep respect for seasonal cycles and the balance between humans and spirits.

On the table

• Roasted soybeans
• Ehōmaki
• Shōgazake
• Peanuts
• Soba noodles
• Kenchin-jiru
• Konjac
• Whale meat

Days Setsubun is marked

Setsubun dates: 2026, 2027, 2028

Questions people ask about Setsubun

See also

HalloweenAn annual observance on 31 October marking the eve of All Saints' Day, rooted in Christian tradition and Celtic heritageHanamiA Japanese spring custom of gathering under blooming cherry trees to eat, drink, and celebrate the fleeting beauty of thBuddha's BirthdayA festival marking the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, observed across Asia with temple rituals and community gatherings.Children's DayA Japanese holiday on May fifth celebrating the happiness and growth of children

Good reading and sources

• BBC - ReligionsBBC, Article
• BBC - ReligionsBBC, Article

• Setsubun on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.