Setsubun～change of season~

 

February 3rd is the bean-throwing ceremony.
According to the lunar calendar of Japan,  February 3rd marks the eve of the first day of spring.

On that day, to ward off illness and misfortune, Japanese families scatter roasted soy beans inside their homes and out of every window and door.
Someone, usually Dad wears a mask representing a demon while the rest of the family pelts him with beans,
shouting "Oni wa soto!"( Out with the devil!!) , "Fukuwa uchi !" (In with good luck!") 
In a wish for good luck, everyone eats one bean for every year of their age. 
This tradition is said to stem from the days when demon terrorized townspeople at night.

The ruling Emperor ordered seven wise men to throw beans in the demon's cave and seal up the exit.

 

Mamemaki~bean throwing~

Ceremonies are also held at temples and shrines where crowds try to catch "lucky beans" tossed by celebrities.