Pop Japan

In Japan, the beginning of the spring season is usually marked by a lot of festivals set around the country. This includes Setsubun.

Setsubun, known for having the so-called "Bean-Throwing festival of Japan," usually takes place on February 3 or 4, on a declared eve before spring; and the term literally means "seasonal division." The ritual is made for "cleansing the house." The beans were used to be thrown at a masked demon in order to drive him away from the house; thus, explaining the meaning of driving the evil spirits away for the year to come.

This special ritual is called mamemaki, which literally means bean scattering.

Tags: TRADITION, Japan, Setsubun, Bean-Throwing festival of Japan, spring