February 3rd
February 3rd is Setsubun, or the Devilfs Day.
Setsubun is not a public holiday but it is a day that holds a lot of importance to the Japanese. Kindergarten and elementary school children often make devil masks on this day. Someone dons the mask and takes the role of the evil spirit in the house, whilst the younger members of the household throw roasted beans at the devil to bully it outside. It is of course to ward off bad luck and welcome in good luck. The Japanese chant is eOni wa soto, fuku wa uchif.
There are many variations of the festival throughout the country. In Kansai long, uncut sushi rolls are on sale especially on February 3rd, apparently you are supposed to face to the north and eat them without saying a word until you have finished.
Setsubun is not a public holiday but it is a day that holds a lot of importance to the Japanese. Kindergarten and elementary school children often make devil masks on this day. Someone dons the mask and takes the role of the evil spirits in the house, whilst the younger members of the household throw roasted beans at the devil to shoue it outside. It is of course to ward off bad luck and welcome in good luck. The Japanese chant is eOni wa soto, fuku wa uchif.
There are many variations of the festival throughout the country. In Kansai long, uncut sushi rolls are on sale especially on February 3rd, apparently you are supposed to face to the north and eat them without saying a word until you have finished.
If you are a sushi fan and you like playing with kids this event is fun!
