What is Setsubun?
Setsubun is a Japanese festival that marks the beginning of spring. It is celebrated on February 3rd every year. The festival is also known as "Bean-Throwing Festival" as people throw roasted soybeans to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
History of Setsubun
Setsubun has been celebrated in Japan since ancient times. The festival has its roots in the Chinese tradition of driving away evil spirits at the beginning of the new year. In Japan, Setsubun was originally celebrated as the last day of the lunar year, but it was changed to February 3rd when Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1873.
Celebrating Setsubun
On Setsubun, people perform a special ritual called mamemaki. They throw roasted soybeans while shouting "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" which means "Out with demons! In with good luck!" The beans are thrown at the door or at a family member wearing an Oni (demon) mask. Eating the same number of beans as one's age is also believed to bring good luck.
Setsubun Songs and Lyrics
There are several popular songs that are sung during Setsubun. One of the most famous songs is "Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi" which is sung while throwing beans. The lyrics are:
Oni wa soto
Fuku wa uchi
Oni wa soto
Fuku wa uchi
Rei, rei, rei, wa
Setsubun, Setsubun
Mamemaki no hi
Wa, wa, wa, wa, wa, wa
Setsubun, Setsubun
Mamemaki no hi
The Meaning of Setsubun Songs
The Setsubun songs have a deep meaning. They are believed to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck. The lyrics "Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi" literally mean "Demons out, Luck in". The word "rei" in the song is a sound effect that is supposed to scare away the demons.
Other Setsubun Traditions
Aside from mamemaki, there are other traditions that are observed during Setsubun. Some people hang an ehoumaki, a special type of sushi roll, and eat it facing the lucky direction of the year. Others decorate their houses with holly leaves and drive away evil spirits with a bamboo rake.
Setsubun Festivals
Setsubun is celebrated all over Japan, but some places have unique festivals that are worth visiting. In Kyoto, there is a festival called "Mitarashi Matsuri" where people take a dip in a cold stream to purify themselves. In Tokyo, there is a festival called "Toka Ebisu" where people pray for good fortune at a shrine.
Conclusion
Setsubun is a fun and meaningful festival that is celebrated in Japan every year. By throwing beans and singing songs, people drive away evil spirits and welcome good luck. Whether you are in Japan or not, you can still enjoy Setsubun by trying out the traditions and learning more about Japanese culture.
