An Interesting Event

We have an exciting Event in Japan called Setsubun. I like this event because everyone can enjoy it. At first, on February 3^rd, in an effect to ward off illness and misfortune, Japanese families scatter soybeans inside their house and out of every window and door. Then, a family member wearing an ogre’s mask opens the door and window, and throws soybeans. At that time they shout, “Oni wa soto” which means, “Demons out!” and “Fuku wa uchi” which means, “Fortune in!” After that, everyone eats the same number of soybeans as their age to welcome in health and good fortune. They can eat the soybeans that are inside the house. As an example, when I was an elementary student, I threw and ate soybeans in my school. In the afternoon, my family throws the soybeans all the door and window. Sometimes we throw throw them at one another. It was very exciting and I had a great time.

Research notes
Betty Reynolds, Japanese Celebrations,Tuttle Publishing, 2006

Setsu Broderick, Japanese Traditions, Tuttle Publishing, 2010