Setsubun Festivals

Setsubun, a term comprising characters for "occasion" and "divide," signifies the day preceding the onset of each season.Given that the initial setsubun of the New Year aligns with February, marking the official commencement of spring in Japan, Setsubun Festivals are observed during this time.A prominent highlight of these festivals is the Tsuina-shiki, an annual ceremony that encompasses both purification rituals and the invocation of good fortune.

Throwing beans to ward off evil and invite good fortune

Setsubun marks the turning point of the season—the transition from winter's end to the onset of spring. Devotees visit temples or shrines to seek blessings for the year ahead, engaging in the tradition of throwing beans to dispel malevolent forces. Beans, symbolizing peace, hold significance in Setsubun events. At Yoshida Shrine, these events span from February 2nd to 4th, with a rich history dating back to the 14th century. This festival has evolved into a grand celebration, attracting participants from across Japan. Visitors to Yoshida Shrine during this period receive good fortune beans, amulets, and a woody holy stick.

Yasaka Shrine's Setsubun Festival – Maiko and Ceremonial Dances

Yasaka Shrine, nestled in the vibrant Gion district, is an ancient sanctuary drawing crowds every February for its Setsubun Festival. During this lively celebration, visitors witness the enchanting sight of maiko—apprentice geisha—engaging in traditional dances and bean-throwing rituals. The festival spans from February 2nd to 3rd, featuring maiko from four geisha districts of Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine's Setsubun festivities offer a variety of experiences, from purchasing lucky beans with lottery tickets to acquiring paper amulets on sticks for a year-long protection against evil. Delight in zenzai red bean soup, known for its evil-repelling properties. While Setsubun festivals with demon exorcism and bean throwing are commonplace in Kyoto, the Yasaka Shrine Setsubun Festival stands out as uniquely "Kyoto-like." Don't miss the graceful dance and mesmerizing bean-throwing spectacle by the maiko—it's truly an experience worth savoring!

A Dance Offering by the Maiko and Geiko of Gion Higashi Kabukai Geisha House

On the festival's second day, February 3rd, a highlight awaits at Yasaka Shrine—the captivating dance offering by the maiko and geiko from the renowned Gion Higashi Kabukai geisha house. Witnessing a maiko and geiko dance is a rare and enchanting experience, even for Kyoto residents. Adorned in exquisite kimonos, the maiko and geiko perform a graceful dance that leaves an indelible impression. Following each mesmerizing dance, the maiko and geiko engage in the symbolic act of bean-throwing, adding a delightful touch to this unique celebration. Don't miss this unforgettable spectacle of traditional dance and joyful bean tossing!

Mibu-dera Temple's Setsubun Festival

Setsubun at Mibu Temple: A Centuries-Old Festival to Ward off Evil Spirits 

Mibu Temple's Setsubun festival, established by Emperor Shirakawa, has stood the test of time for 900 years. Spanning three days, from February 2nd to 4th, this event draws people of all ages from across Japan to the temple in Kyoto's south-west region. While Setsubun festivals are held in various places, Mibu Temple's celebration holds a special significance—it's a time to pray for good health and rebel against malevolent spirits.

Kyogen, a form of Japanese traditional entertainment, takes center stage during this event. Mibu Kyogen, exclusively presented on February 2nd and 3rd, offers eight performances held continuously from 1 pm to 9 pm at the Kyogen-hall in the northern precinct. The delightful blend of humor in the kyogen performances, coupled with the customary bean-throwing, creates an extraordinary experience that shouldn't be missed! Join us in this celebration of tradition, laughter, and the collective effort to banish negativity.

Kito

The main hall hosts an all-day Kito ceremony, featuring two distinct prayer methods to combat evil forces. Explore exclusive amulets shaped like daruma or jizo, available only during the Setsubun festival. These unique talismans offer protection against calamities and difficulties, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the event. Embrace divine symbols of safeguarding and fortify yourself during this sacred ritual.

Rozan-ji Temple's Setsubun Festival – The Three Dancing Oni

Dynamic and Comical Oni Dance at the Setsubun Festival

Setsubun festivities on February 3rd feature a captivating Oni dance commencing at 3 p.m. at Rozan-ji Temple. Red Oni armed with a sword, blue Oni wielding an ax, and black Oni brandishing a hammer grace the stage in front of the main hall, captivating the audience with their lively dance. Inside the hall, a ritual unfolds to ward off evil spirits and invoke longevity. While the red, blue, and black Oni attempt to disrupt the ritual, attendees counteract by throwing beans and rice cakes. Rozan-ji Temple's distinctive beans, coated with red or white sugar, are believed to contribute to a long life. This annual event draws around 1000 people to Rozan-ji Temple, creating a vibrant atmosphere of tradition and celebration.