Setsubun: Welcoming Spring with Tradition and Craft

Feb 1

Setsubun(節分), traditionally celebrated on February 3rd, marks the transition from winter to spring according to the old Japanese lunar calendar. However, in 2025, Setsubun falls on February 2nd due to the shifting lunar cycle. The day is best known for its lively mamemaki (bean-throwing) rituals, where roasted soybeans are thrown to drive away evil spirits with the chant "Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!" ("Out with the demons, in with good fortune!"). This practice, rooted in ancient beliefs about purifying the home and inviting prosperity, remains a beloved tradition in households and temples alike.

Beyond the rituals, Setsubun is a celebration of Japanese craftsmanship, particularly in the creation of items that enhance the festivities. One such example is the intricate oni masks used during mamemaki. Traditionally handcrafted from paper or wood, these masks depict the fearsome faces of demons and are often made using techniques such as kirie (paper cutting) or urushi (lacquerware) painting. These crafts not only elevate the celebratory atmosphere but also highlight the skill of Japanese artisans in preserving cultural heritage.

Food is another integral part of Setsubun, with ehōmaki (a thick sushi roll eaten in silence while facing the year’s lucky direction) taking center stage. Artisanal servingware, such as Edo Kiriko glass bowls or Mino ware plates, is often used to present these dishes, reflecting the importance of seasonal traditions in Japanese dining aesthetics. For those interested in Japanese crafts, Setsubun offers an opportunity to explore how functional and decorative items, from pottery to textiles, are interwoven into everyday celebrations.

Today, as Setsubun gains recognition beyond Japan, the tradition serves as a window into Japanese culture and craftsmanship. From artisan-made oni masks to handcrafted ceramics used for festive meals, the day is a testament to how traditional practices can inspire and sustain modern appreciation for Japanese art. By incorporating these elements into Setsubun celebrations, we honor both the past and the enduring spirit of Japanese craft.

japanese traditionjapanjapaneseJapanese craftcraftsjapanese sweetsSetsubun節分

Japan Suite

Showcasing traditional Japanese crafts and the artisans who create them — their stories and their art in words and visions. Japan’s hand-made crafts have played an integral role in the lives of Japanese for centuries. They are created in response to basic, everyday needs and have long been used in the daily rhythms of life. They come from the earth and from nature, and they are prized for their simplicity and long life. Craftspeople pour their passion, pride and energy into their handiwork, creating objects that can far outlive their creators, but in doing so, they carry on the artist’s legacy. The artisans know their objects can live hundreds of years, and they want to be just as proud of it in 100 years as they are today. So, everyday household items take on a life of their own, their own spirit and their own story. They are unique, one-of-a-kind creations with a character and spirit that grows stronger with regular use. The artist creates the object, but that is just the beginning of the journey. In the hands of its owner, a relationship is created, one that is nurtured across time. Just as we do, these creations will change over time developing new imperfections and new character. Each region and each artisan have their own character. In Japan, this is known as meibutsu. The legacy has been passed down by Japanese artists across time down to today’s craftspeople who are advancing and redefining this tradition. We applaud these artisans, and we strive to support them as they re-interpret the heritage of their predecessors — and we are proud to introduce their work, their stories and the passion they put into their creation here at Japan Suite.

Setsubun: Welcoming Spring with Tradition and Craft

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