Setsubun

In the old Japanese calendar, spring arrived at the beginning of February. Setsubun, which means “seasonal division,” commemorates the end of winter and the start of the weather turning mild. It is held before the first day of spring, or Risshun, and falls between February 2 and 4. Although Setsubun is not a national holiday, it is an important day, and it comes with some fun traditions, including the throwing of beans. Rituals and Traditions of Setsubun Throwing beans at Setsubun is called mamemaki, which means “bean scattering.” The beans are roasted soybeans called “fortune beans” that, like rice, are supposed to have sacred qualities. Custom dictates that you should throw beans out the front door and then slam the door shut. Typically, just one household member throws the beans, particularly a man whose Chinese zodiac animal is the same as the current year’s. Alternatively, a family member (often the father) can dress as a demon, and the children can throw beans at him. This option is particularly popular in households with young children. While throwing beans, people shout, “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!” which means “Demons out, good luck in!” At the end of the bean throwing, you…