Shoo away demons with beans!

The 3^rd of February was Setsubun, cerebrating the day spring starts. What most families do is buy a pack of roasted soy beans.  Demon masks are sold too. Children throw beans at imaginary demons symbolizing evil spirits, saying “Demons out! Luck in!” out of the door. After successfully shooing away demons, leftover beans, often flavoured, are eaten by children.

Some temples and shrines host events, often with traditional dance by demons. We attended one at night. In the dark under torch fires demons with elaborate masks and traditional costumes danced to the drums.  Scary enough for young children, I bet.