Setsubun

February 3, Saturday

Setsubun is a traditional Japanese holiday celebrated annually on February 3, the eve of the onset of spring according to the Japanese lunar calendar. The name "Setsubun" means "separation of seasons," and the holiday is dedicated to cleansing from evil spirits and preparing for spring. The main ritual of this day, called mamemaki, involves throwing roasted soybeans, which symbolizes the expulsion of demons and the attraction of good luck.

History and meaning
Setsubun has its origins in ancient Chinese and Japanese traditions, where the transition from winter to spring was celebrated and rituals of purification and expulsion of evil spirits were performed. It is believed that with the onset of spring, when nature awakens, the activity of various evil forces also intensifies. Mamemaki helps to "cleanse" homes and family life, expelling negativity and protecting against troubles and diseases.

Holiday traditions
Mamemaki. The main ritual is the throwing of roasted soybeans. The owner of the house or head of the family, wearing a demon (oni) mask, shouts: "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" - "Demon, go away! Happiness, come in!" After this, family members pick up a number of beans equal to their age to symbolically eat them and improve their health for the whole year.

Ehomaki. Recently, another custom has become popular - eating long rolls of sushi, which are called ehomaki. These rolls are eaten while looking in a certain direction, indicated by astrologers for the current year, and in complete silence, wishes for the future are made.

Visiting temples and shrines. Large temples and shrines in Japan hold public mamemaki ceremonies, where invited celebrities, athletes, and local priests scatter beans for a large crowd of people.

Setsubun

Setsubun – days left: 71. Create Countdown to Event

Setsubun in other years

2021 February 3, Wednesday
2022 February 3, Thursday
2023 February 3, Friday
2025 February 3, Monday