Setsubun, 節分 

which means "seasonal division," marks the transition from winter to spring in Japan.

 

It's a time to shoo- away bad luck and welcome good fortune, with the most famous tradition being mamemaki—throwing roasted soybeans while shouting

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"鬼は外 福は内"

"Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!"

("Demons out! Luck in!")

 

Families across Japan toss beans at oni　鬼 (demons) to drive away evil spirits and invite prosperity for the year ahead.

 

At JSA, we brought this tradition to life with a fun and interactive Setsubun celebration!

The event kicked off with oni mask-making, where attendees got creative designing their own colorful demon faces. As we socialized and learned about the history of Setsubun, anticipation built for the main event—mamemaki!

 

Armed with handfuls of beans, students enthusiastically chanted “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” as they playfully drove the oni away.

 

To wrap up the night, everyone enjoyed delicious sushi while reflecting on the experience.

 

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