Happy Setsubun

Today in Japan, we celebrate Setsubun (節分), the eve of the first day of Spring!

On this special day, the most common ritual is the throwing of roasted soybeans around one’s house and at temples and shrines. When scattering the beans, Japanese shout “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” which means “Devils out, happiness in”. Then, they pick up and eat the number of beans that correspond to their age.

In addition, many Japanese eat Ehomaki on this day, to pray for good health and thriving business. Ehomaki is a sushi roll made with seven ingredients associated with the Seven Gods of Good Fortune. This roll is supposed to be eaten without talking, while facing the lucky direction of the year