Setsubun is a Japanese festival marking the end of winter and beginning of spring. It involves throwing roasted soybeans to drive out evil spirits and bring good fortune. Celebrated on February 3rd, Setsubun features unique customs and rituals across Japan.

What is Setsubun?

Setsubun is a traditional Japanese holiday that takes place on the day before the start of spring according to the old Japanese calendar. The name “Setsubun” literally means “seasonal division” and refers to the change from winter to spring. While there are technically four setsubun days marking the change between seasons, the spring setsubun is the most widely celebrated.

The main custom associated with Setsubun is mamemaki, or bean throwing. People throw roasted soybeans either out the door or at someone wearing an oni (demon) mask while shouting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” which means “Demons out! Fortune in!” This ritual is meant to drive away evil spirits and welcome good luck for the coming year.

Key Elements of Setsubun

Throwing roasted soybeans (mamemaki)
Shouting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!”
Eating fortune rolls (ehomaki)
Wearing oni masks
Visiting temples and shrines for ceremonies

Setsubun provides a fun way for Japanese people to mark the end of winter and welcome the coming of spring. The bean-throwing custom in particular is enjoyed by both children and adults.

When is Setsubun Celebrated?

Setsubun is typically celebrated on February 3rd each year. However, the exact date can vary slightly:

In most years, Setsubun falls on February 3rd
Occasionally it may be on February 2nd or 4th
The date is determined by the old Japanese lunar calendar

For example, upcoming Setsubun dates are:

2025: February 2 (Sunday)
2026: February 3 (Tuesday)
2027: February 3 (Wednesday)
2028: February 3 (Thursday)
2029: February 2 (Friday)

While Setsubun is not a national holiday in Japan, many people still celebrate it at home, schools, workplaces, and local temples or shrines. The festivities typically take place in the evening after work and school.

Setsubun Timing at Temples and Shrines

At temples and shrines, Setsubun ceremonies are often held between 11am and 4pm on February 2nd and 3rd. This allows people to attend events before or after work. Major shrines may have multiple bean-throwing sessions throughout the day.

Setsubun 2025 Key Details

The upcoming Setsubun celebration in 2025 will be held on Sunday, February 2nd. This slight variation from the usual February 3rd date is due to the lunar calendar calculations.

Major 2025 Events

Several significant celebrations are planned across Japan:

Suitengu Shrine Festival (Tokyo)

Date: February 2, 2025
Features celebrity bean-throwing ceremonies
Includes live performances and traditional rituals

Zojoji Temple Ceremony (Tokyo)

Expected to draw over 4,000 visitors
Features celebrity bean throwers and sumo wrestlers
Includes a designated family area for safe participation

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine Festival

Special seaweed charity sale
Sushi roll events
Located 8 minutes from Hotel Noum OSAKA

Kasuga Taisha Shrine (Nara)

Features over 3,000 illuminated lanterns
Traditional lantern lighting ceremony
Garden displays with paper strips containing visitors’ wishes

History and Origins of Setsubun

The origins of Setsubun can be traced back to ancient Chinese customs that were later introduced to Japan. Understanding the history helps explain the meaning behind modern Setsubun traditions.

Chinese Roots

Setsubun has its roots in the ancient Chinese ritual called “Tsuina.” This was a ceremony performed at the imperial court on New Year’s Eve to drive away evil spirits and disease. It involved people wearing masks and making noise to scare away malevolent forces.

Introduction to Japan

The Tsuina ritual was introduced to Japan during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Historical records show it being performed at the imperial court by the early 8th century. Initially, it was an elite practice limited to the nobility.

Evolution of Customs

Over time, the ritual evolved and spread beyond the imperial court:

Kamakura period (1185-1333): Adopted by Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines
Muromachi period (1336-1573): Bean throwing becomes part of the ritual
Edo period (1603-1867): Customs shift from New Year’s Eve to Setsubun
Spreads to samurai families and general public

The use of soybeans likely stems from their importance as a staple food. Beans were believed to have purifying powers that could ward off evil. The Japanese word for bean (mame) also sounds similar to the word for demon eyes (mame), creating a symbolic connection.

Modern Setsubun

Today’s Setsubun celebrations retain many traditional elements while also incorporating new customs. While no longer tied to the lunar New Year, Setsubun remains an important cultural event marking the seasonal transition from winter to spring.

Setsubun Customs and Traditions

Setsubun involves several unique customs and traditions. Understanding these rituals provides insight into Japanese culture and beliefs surrounding seasonal changes and good fortune.

Mamemaki (Bean Throwing)

The central ritual of Setsubun is mamemaki, or bean throwing. This involves scattering roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. The practice typically follows these steps:

Roasted soybeans are placed in a small dish or cup
A family member (often the father) puts on an oni mask
Other family members throw beans at the “oni” while shouting “Oni wa soto!”
Beans are then thrown out the door or window while saying “Fuku wa uchi!”
Everyone eats the number of beans equal to their age, plus one for good luck

At temples and shrines, priests and special guests throw beans to crowds of people eager to catch them for good fortune.

Ehomaki (Lucky Direction Rolls)

Eating ehomaki is another popular Setsubun tradition. These are special uncut sushi rolls eaten while facing the year’s lucky direction. Key points about ehomaki:

Contains seven ingredients representing the Seven Gods of Fortune
Eaten in silence without cutting the roll
Must face the lucky direction while eating (changes each year)
Believed to bring good luck if eaten properly

The custom of eating ehomaki originated in the Kansai region but has now spread throughout Japan.

Shrine and Temple Visits

Many people visit Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples on Setsubun. These often host special events and ceremonies:

Bean throwing by priests, local celebrities, or sumo wrestlers
Prayers for good fortune in the coming year
Sales of lucky charms and amulets
Food stalls selling seasonal treats

Popular shrines like Sensoji in Tokyo can draw huge crowds for their Setsubun festivals.

Regional Variations

While bean throwing is common across Japan, some areas have unique Setsubun customs:

Kansai: Hanging holly and sardine heads by the entrance to ward off evil
Western Japan: Eating sardines on Setsubun
Some areas: Lighting bonfires to invite the kami (gods) and drive away evil

These regional differences add to the rich cultural tapestry of Setsubun celebrations across Japan.

How to Celebrate Setsubun

Whether you’re in Japan or elsewhere, there are several ways to participate in Setsubun festivities. Here are some ideas for celebrating this unique Japanese holiday.

At Home

Celebrating Setsubun at home is common in Japan. Here’s how you can recreate the experience:

Prepare roasted soybeans (or peanuts as a substitute)
Make or buy oni masks
Designate someone to wear the oni mask
Throw beans while shouting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!”
Eat your age in beans plus one for luck
Make or buy ehomaki rolls to eat facing the lucky direction

You can find Setsubun kits with masks and beans at Japanese grocery stores or online.

Attend Local Events

If you’re in Japan, look for Setsubun events at nearby shrines or temples. These often feature:

Public bean-throwing ceremonies
Traditional performances
Food stalls with seasonal treats
Sales of lucky charms and souvenirs

Even outside Japan, some Japanese cultural centers or communities may host Setsubun celebrations.

Make Setsubun-Inspired Food

Incorporate Setsubun themes into your cooking:

Make your own ehomaki sushi rolls
Prepare roasted soybeans as a snack
Cook sardines, which are eaten in some regions on Setsubun

Learn About Japanese Culture

Use Setsubun as an opportunity to explore Japanese culture:

Read about the history and meaning of Setsubun
Learn some basic Japanese phrases related to the holiday
Watch videos of Setsubun celebrations in Japan

Celebrating Setsubun can be a fun way to experience Japanese traditions and welcome the coming of spring.

Setsubun’s Significance in Japanese Culture

Setsubun holds an important place in Japanese culture, blending traditional beliefs with modern celebrations. Understanding its significance provides insight into Japanese values and customs.

Spiritual and Religious Aspects

Setsubun has roots in both Shinto and Buddhist traditions:

Shinto: Represents purification and renewal at the turn of seasons
Buddhism: Incorporates elements of warding off evil and inviting good fortune

The bean-throwing ritual symbolizes driving away negative forces and welcoming positive energy for the new season.

Cultural Continuity

Setsubun helps maintain a connection to Japan’s cultural heritage:

Preserves ancient customs in a modern context
Passes down traditions from generation to generation
Reinforces cultural identity and shared experiences

Even as Japan has modernized, Setsubun remains a widely celebrated event.

Community Bonding

Setsubun events bring people together:

Family celebrations strengthen household bonds
Public events foster community spirit
Shared traditions create a sense of belonging

The festive atmosphere of Setsubun helps build and reinforce social connections.

Seasonal Awareness

Setsubun marks an important point in the Japanese calendar:

Signals the end of winter and beginning of spring
Heightens awareness of seasonal changes
Connects people to natural cycles

This awareness of seasons is an important aspect of Japanese culture.

Evolving Traditions

While rooted in history, Setsubun customs continue to evolve:

Incorporation of modern elements like celebrity appearances
Commercialization through special Setsubun products
Adaptation of traditions for urban lifestyles

This flexibility allows Setsubun to remain relevant in contemporary Japanese society.

Nike Dunk Low “Setsubun”

The Nike Dunk Low “Setsubun” is a unique sneaker that pays homage to the Japanese Setsubun festival. Here are the key details about this special release:

Design and Colorway

The shoe features a color scheme inspired by the roasted soybeans used in the Setsubun celebration:

Upper: Nubuck leather in shades of brown and tan
Swoosh: Rich purple
Midsole: White
Outsole: Gum

Special Features

Heel embroidery: Oni (demon) design with Swoosh-shaped horns
Insoles: Artwork depicting Kintarō throwing beans at demons, based on an 1840s ukiyo-e print by Utagawa Kuniyoshi
Materials: Premium suede and leather with cracked leather accents

Release Information

Release Date: April 11, 2023
Style Code: DQ5009-268
Retail Price: $120 USD

Sizing and Fit

The Nike Dunk Low “Setsubun” fits true to size. It’s available in men’s sizing, with some retailers offering extended size runs.

Cultural Significance

This sneaker celebrates the Setsubun festival, which marks the beginning of spring in Japan. The design incorporates elements of the bean-throwing ritual used to ward off evil spirits and welcome good fortune.

The Nike Dunk Low “Setsubun” combines cultural inspiration with Nike’s iconic silhouette, creating a sneaker that’s both stylish and meaningful. Its unique design and limited availability make it a sought-after release for sneaker enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Setsubun

Here are answers to some common questions about Setsubun:

Why do people throw beans on Setsubun?

Beans are thrown to symbolically drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. The practice is called mamemaki. Roasted soybeans are used because beans were considered to have purifying powers in Japanese tradition.

What does “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi” mean?

This phrase is shouted while throwing beans on Setsubun. It means “Demons out, fortune in!” It expresses the desire to banish negative forces and welcome positive energy for the coming year.

Can I celebrate Setsubun outside of Japan?

Yes, you can celebrate Setsubun anywhere. You can recreate traditions like bean throwing at home or look for events at Japanese cultural centers. Many elements of Setsubun can be adapted for celebration outside Japan.

What is an ehomaki roll?

An ehomaki is a special uncut sushi roll eaten on Setsubun. It contains seven ingredients for good luck and should be eaten facing the year’s lucky direction. The custom originated in the Kansai region but is now popular throughout Japan.

Is Setsubun a national holiday in Japan?

No, Setsubun is not an official national holiday in Japan. However, it is widely celebrated, and many shrines, temples, and communities hold special events to mark the occasion.

How do Japanese schools celebrate Setsubun?

Many Japanese schools hold Setsubun events for students. These often include bean-throwing activities, making oni masks, and learning about the holiday’s history and meaning. Some schools invite local community members to participate.

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