ICH Courier

February 3rd marks Setsubun, the final day of winter in the Japanese lunar calendar. The term ‘Setsubun’ literally means ‘seasonal division,’ signifying the transition from one season to the next; it specifically denotes the day before Risshun, the beginning of spring. On this day, a variety of traditional events take place across Japan, the most notable being Mamemaki.
Mamemaki, which translates to ‘bean throwing,’ originates from the ancient Japanese belief in kotodama — the idea that words hold spiritual power. This belief gave rise to goroawase, a form of wordplay in which words with similar sounds take on symbolic meanings. In this case, the word mame (beans) sounds identical to mame, (demon’s eyes), inspiring the tradition of throwing beans to drive away demons.

Throughout Setsubun, temples and shrines across Japan host Mamemaki events. Celebrities, sumo wrestlers, and other notable figures are often invited to toss beans to the spectators. In many households, the eldest family member dons a red oni (demon) mask while other members throw beans at them. Afterwards, it is customary to eat a number of beans equal to one`s age plus one to usher in good luck.
During Mamemaki, participants chant, “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (“Demons out! Good fortune in!”), in an effort to dispel misfortune and welcome prosperity, paving the way for a healthy and blessed spring after a harsh winter season.