February 3: Setsubun

February 3, 2023

According to Japanese legends, demons are a symbol of evil, appearing when the seasons change. Setsubun is an event held across Japan to ward off these demons; it is usually held on February 3, a day before “risshun” (the beginning of spring according to the lunar calendar). At every household, shrine, and temple, people engage in “mamemaki” (bean-throwing ritual) while wishing for health and safety in the community. In Hamamatsu, shrines such as Gosha Jinja, Hamamatsu Hachimangu, and Iinoyagu host mamemaki ceremonies.

Related Information

http://www.hamamatsuhachimangu.org/schedule/#tsuina