February 3rd marks Setsubun in Japan, a traditional event where people eat Ehomaki (a special sushi roll) and perform Mamemaki (bean-throwing ritual).
During Mamemaki, people throw roasted soybeans while chanting “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi”, which means “Out with demons, in with good fortune!” This custom is meant to drive away evil spirits—symbolizing illness and misfortune—and invite happiness into our homes.
After the bean-throwing, it is customary to eat the same number of soybeans as your age.
We ate our beans too!
In the Kanto region, people often enjoy Kenchin-jiru (a hearty vegetable soup) on Setsubun. Meanwhile, in the Kansai region, it is common to hang a decoration made of a sardine head and holly leaves at the entrance to ward off evil spirits.
These regional differences make Japanese traditions even more fascinating!
