February 3 is Setsubun festival in Japan and they throw roasted soy beans. Setu means Season and Bun to divide. Until February 3 it’s winter in Japanese lunar calendar and the 4th is the beginning of spring. Before spring they wanted to get evil sprite or devil away from their house and invite happiness.
So they throw roasted soy beans to devil, called Oni. Shouting “Oni was soto. Fuku wa uchi.” We stay in side and throw the beans to outside and inside both. Some shrines and temples do this bean throwing ritual. This is a traditional and fun festival. My friends enjoyed Mamemaki, Bean throwing in Japan! I did, I brought beans and Oni mask with me when I came back from Japan. I did today. Wishing Happiness of the year and cleans my home.
鬼 おに Oni; devil, evil sprite 外 そとSoto; outside
福 ふくＦuku; Happiness. good fortune 内 うち Uchi:inside
All you need are these beans and if you like wear mask and play Oni. Your family will love it. The red Oni is typical Japanese devil with horns and fangs.
