Culture Setsubun - the Japanese bean-throwing festival

Why is Setsubun on the 2nd of February in 2025?

Setsubun, while tied to the lunar calendar, usually falls on the 3rd of February. This year's shift to the 2nd of February is rare and happened in 2021 for the first in over a century. While Setsubun has occasionally been on the 4th of February, it will return to the 3rd in 2022, then shift to the 2nd every four years starting in 2025. A double 2nd of February Setsubun will happen in 2057 and 2058, and a 4th of February Setsubun won't occur again until the 22nd century. This shifting has caused confusion, with some 2021 calendars incorrectly marking the date. Therefore, the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan has issued a reminder of the correct date.

We procured our 恵方巻き. Super expensive (over ¥1000 for a 1/2 roll) but we have to ensure our good fortune this year.

mdchachi said:

We procured our 恵方巻き. Super expensive (over ¥1000 for a 1/2 roll) but we have to ensure our good fortune this year.

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たけぇ! But I'm sure it was worth it.

"Ehomaki" was originally a local custom in parts of Osaka, but over the past 20 years, it has spread nationwide due to the marketing strategies of food manufacturers and traditional media. However, the issue of food waste has arisen due to large quantities of unsold products.

Temples and shrines are preparing for tomorrow's setsubun festival. The links below list some of the best locations in and around Tokyo.