Feb3! Tokyo Setsubun Soybean Scattering Ehomaki Hand Roll Sushi

On February 3rd, Tokyo celebrates Setsubun, a vibrant festival marking the transition from winter to spring. Participants take part in the age-old tradition of scattering roasted soybeans, known as mamemaki, to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. Alongside this ritual, attendees indulge in Ehomaki, a delicious hand roll sushi symbolizing prosperity. The celebration offers an intimate cultural experience enhanced by traditional snacks and a masu sake cup, making it a memorable day for all who witness this unique…

Key Points

• Attend a Setsubun celebration in Tokyo on February 3rd, where you will scatter roasted soybeans and enjoy traditional Ehomaki hand roll sushi.
• The event starts at Otsuka Station and ends at Sugamo Station along the Yamanote line, offering a cultural journey with a maximum group size of 30 travelers.
• Participants will receive a masu sake cup, traditional snacks, and dried soybeans to enhance their experience of the centuries-old Japanese soybean scattering ritual.
• The soybean scattering, known as mamemaki, is a symbolic act that drives away evil spirits and invites good luck for the new year.
• The event is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with public transportation nearby, providing a convenient and inclusive cultural experience.

Event Overview

On February 3, Tokyo celebrates the traditional Japanese festival of Setsubun, which marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring.

The main activities include scattering roasted soybeans to ward off evil spirits and eating a special rolled sushi called Ehomaki.

This festival takes place along the Yamanote line, starting at Otsuka Station and ending at Sugamo Station.

Participants will receive a masu sake cup, traditional snacks like dorayaki and Ehomaki, and dried soybeans to participate in the celebratory rituals.

The event is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though not recommended for those with back problems.

Location Details

The Setsubun event takes place along the Yamanote line, starting at Otsuka Station and ending at Sugamo Station.

Otsuka Station, located at 3-chōme-33-1 Minamiōtsuka, Toshima City, serves as the meeting point where travelers gather.

From there, the group will follow the Yamanote line to Sugamo Station at 1 Chome-16 Sugamo, Toshima City.

The event is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation.

However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, as the maximum group size is 30 travelers.

Meeting Point

Travelers meet at the JR Yamanote Line Otsuka Station ticket gate, where the Setsubun event begins. This central meeting point is easily accessible by public transportation.

From here, the group will embark on a cultural journey through the streets of Tokyo, scattering soy beans and enjoying traditional Ehomaki hand roll sushi.

The meeting location is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for all participants.

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and immersive exploration of the Setsubun festivities in the heart of the city.

Included Items

As participants gather at the Otsuka Station ticket gate to embark on the Setsubun event, they’ll receive a few special items to enhance their cultural experience.

A masu sake cup made of Japanese cypress tree will be provided, allowing them to savor traditional Japanese rice wine. Accompanying the cup are tasty snacks, including dorayaki (Japanese pancakes), the auspicious ehomaki hand roll sushi, and dried soybeans – essential for the soybean scattering ritual.

These thoughtful inclusions immerse travelers in the customs and flavors of this centuries-old Japanese celebration.

Accessibility and Participation

Although the Setsubun event is wheelchair and stroller accessible, thanks to the nearby public transportation options, it may not be suitable for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions. The event can accommodate a maximum of 30 travelers and infants must sit on laps.

Accessibility	Yes/No
Wheelchair accessible	Yes
Stroller accessible	Yes
Near public transportation	Yes
Recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions	No

The event’s surfaces are wheelchair accessible, but travelers should exercise caution due to the potential for large crowds.

Booking Information

How much does the Setsubun event cost? The Setsubun event is priced from €52.33 per person.

Travelers have the option to reserve now and pay later. Confirmation is received at the time of booking. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The maximum number of travelers allowed is 30.

This Setsubun experience includes a masu sake cup made of Japanese cypress tree, as well as traditional snacks like dorayaki, Ehomaki sushi roll, and dried soybeans.

Accessibility is good, with the event being wheelchair and stroller friendly, and near public transportation.

Soybean Scattering Tradition

One of the main activities during the Tokyo Setsubun festival is the traditional soybean scattering ritual. Soybean throwing, known as mamemaki, is believed to drive away evil spirits and invite good luck for the new year. As the ritual begins, participants shout "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" which means "Out with the demons, in with good luck!" Then, they toss roasted soybeans at the participants, who scramble to gather as many as possible. This symbolic act is thought to purify the home and protect against misfortune.

Reasons for Soybean Scattering
Drives Away Evil Spirits	Invites Good Luck
Purifies the Home	Protects Against Misfortune

Ehomaki Hand Roll Sushi

During the Setsubun festival in Tokyo, the traditional Ehomaki hand roll sushi is a popular delicacy.

Ehomaki is a thick, cylindrical sushi roll, typically filled with various ingredients such as:

• Nori seaweed
• Sushi rice
• Cooked egg
• Kanpyo (pickled gourd)

The tradition of eating Ehomaki during Setsubun is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the new year.

Families and friends gather to enjoy this savory treat, often making a wish as they take the first bite.

The combination of flavors and textures in Ehomaki makes it a beloved part of the Setsubun celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear for the Setsubun Festival?

When attending the Setsubun festival, one should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement during the soybean-scattering ritual. Layering is recommended as the weather may be cool. Avoid wearing anything that could impede participation in the festivities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Event?

Participants are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the event. The event includes snacks such as dorayaki, ehomaki roll, and dried soybeans, which are provided as part of the tour package.

Are Photographs and Videos Allowed During the Activities?

Photography and video recording are allowed during the activities. Participants are encouraged to capture the cultural traditions and festivities of the Tokyo Setsubun event to share their experiences.

Is There a Dress Code or Special Attire Required?

There is no specific dress code or special attire required for this event. Participants are advised to wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, as the activities may involve some outdoor walking.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Event?

There are no age restrictions for participating in the event. However, infants must sit on laps. The activity is suitable for all ages, including children, though not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions.

The Sum Up

Experience the vibrant annual Setsubun celebration in Tokyo. Scatter roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits, then indulge in the symbolic Ehomaki hand roll sushi. This cultural event along the scenic Yamanote line offers a memorable day filled with traditional snacks and sake. Don’t miss the opportunity to partake in this unique Japanese tradition.