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Setsubun
Marks the changeover between winter and spring by driving out evil spirits.
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Festival Overview
What is Setsubun?
Marks the changeover between winter and spring by driving out evil spirits.
ReligionShinto
CategorySeasonal
Celebrated inJapan
Duration1 day
ReachJapan
History, Origin & Significance
The Story Behind Setsubun
Setsubun is the day before the beginning of spring in the old calendar in Japan. The name literally means 'seasonal division', referring to the day just before the first day of spring in the traditional calendar, known as Setsubun; though previously referring to a wider range of possible dates, Setsubun is now typically held on February 3, with the day after – the first day of spring in the old calendar – known as Risshun . Both Setsubun and Risshun are celebrated yearly as part of the Spring Festival in Japan. Setsubun was accompanied by a number of rituals and traditions held at various levels to drive away the previous year's bad fortunes and evil spirits for the year to come.
Source: Wikipedia — Setsubun
At a Glance
Celebration & Rituals
1 day of celebration
A single, focused day of observance and celebration.
Mamemaki bean-throwing
The most recognisable custom of Setsubun.
Japan
Communities across 1 country take part.
Roasted soybeans
A signature dish closely associated with the celebration.
Flavours of the Celebration
Food & Culture
No Setsubun celebration is complete without its signature dishes, shared with family and community throughout the festivities.
Roasted soybeansEhomaki sushi rolls
Customs & Practices
Traditions
The customs practised during Setsubun vary by region, but these are the most widely recognised.
Mamemaki bean-throwing"Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi" chantEating ehomaki sushi rolls
Duration
Setsubun Timeline
The Day of Celebration · Feb 3, 2027
Mamemaki bean-throwing
Where It's Celebrated
Location & Country Details
Celebrated In
🇯🇵 Japan
Primarily celebrated in Japan. Detailed country facts (capital, currency, languages) need a REST Countries API key configured — see .env.example.
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Travel Information
Best time to plan around
Typically celebrated in February.
Where to go
Japan
- Weather can shift quickly around seasonal transitions — pack layers.
Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Setsubun falls on Feb 3, 2027 (estimated date — exact timing can vary by region or calendar reckoning).
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