Ward off evil and call in good fortune with the beloved bean tossing pastime of Setsubun!

In Japan, February 4th is regarded as the first day of spring in the traditional lunar calendar system, and Setsubun is celebrated on the day prior as a way of chasing out evil and bringing in good luck and sound health for the new year to come. 

One of the most beloved aspects of Setsubun is the tradition of mamemaki, or bean throwing. Toasted beans are tossed while saying “Oni ha soto, fuku ha uchi”- translating to “demons without, fortune within”. By chanting these words while throwing the beans away, negative energy is replaced with the good, leading to a more auspicious new year. Throughout Japan there are many who come to shrines and temples to see men and women whose zodiac year it is perform the bean tossing ritual.

Located in Fukuoka’s West Ward is Iimori Shrine, which is a designated culturally important property by the city government. Sitting at the foot of the scenic rice-ball shaped Mt. Iimori, this shrine has over 1,200 years of history to its name, and the Setsubun bean throwing tradition of tsuinasai is performed on February 3rd annually. 

Bean tossing (daytime・nighttime) 

Daytime: 11:00 / Nighttime: 19:00 (Both at the kagura hall of the shrine)
Men and women whose zodiac year it is that have already prayed for good luck throw out beans towards spectators. Lucky attendees might get a special bean that one can turn in for a prize!

Tsuinasai 

Before and after the bean throwing proper is a ceremony specific to Iimori Shrine: tsuinasai. 

A person dressed as an oni enters the shrine, and taps shrine-goers on the behind with a bamboo rod. This little gesture is meant to banish evil, and pray for sound health.
For families this event is the perfect way to create lasting memories for children in addition to the bean tossing. During the nighttime session there will also be heartwarming fare such as chicken hotpot like mizutaki in addition to other hot dishes. 

Tsuinasai is traditional, unique, and a mirthful hands-on activity that is fun for all. Tourists and locals alike are all welcome!