Seasons of Yum
Back to Holidays
Japanese Spring Festival

節分 Setsubun

February 3rdJapan

Setsubun marks the day before the beginning of spring in Japan. Celebrated with bean-throwing ceremonies to drive away evil spirits and eating traditional lucky foods for good fortune in the coming year.

Setsubun Traditions

👹

Mamemaki

Throw roasted soybeans while shouting "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" (Demons out! Fortune in!) to drive away evil spirits.

🍣

Ehomaki

Eat a thick sushi roll in silence while facing the year's lucky direction for good fortune and prosperity.

🫘

Fukumame

After throwing beans, eat your age plus one for good luck and health in the coming year.

Traditional Setsubun Recipes

Celebrate this auspicious day with authentic Japanese recipes that bring good fortune, ward off evil, and welcome the spring season.