Setsubun originally was used to describe the day before the beginning of each season, “Setsu” meaning Seasonal and “bun” meaning Division. Today it is chiefly used for the day before the first day of spring which is called Risshun and falls on February 3^rd or 4^th. This is the time when the lowest temperatures are recorded. After Setsubun, signs of spring gradually begin.

 

 

Setsubun was considered to be a part of Lunar New Year activities. A special ritual is still performed to drive out evil of the former year and bring in happiness and luck by throwing beans(Mamemaki). Roasted soybeans are thrown out shouting “Oni wa soto” “Demons out” and into one’s home saying “Fuku wa uchi” “Come in good luck”. 

 

 

 

 

This Oni mask represents a demon, and Fuku mask represents happiness and luck.

These masks are worn by a member of the family to pretend like an Oni or Fuku, and beans are thrown by a Toshi-Otoko, a male born on the corresponding year on the Chinese Zodiac or else the head male of the household.