Setsubun
SeasonalKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Sensoji Temple
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Sensoji Temple
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedJapanese festivals (matsuri) are incredible cultural experiences, but they come with their own rules and customs. Learn the etiquette, what to wear, and how to fully enjoy a matsuri.
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Bean-throwing ceremony to ward off evil spirits, held at temples across Japan.
Setsubun marks the day before the beginning of spring in the traditional Japanese calendar. Celebrated at temples and shrines across Japan, the ritual involves throwing roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. Sensoji Temple in Asakusa hosts one of Tokyo's most famous Setsubun celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors who gather to watch celebrity bean-throwing ceremonies.
Setsubun takes place from 2026-02-03 to 2026-02-03.
Setsubun is held at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan.
Yes, Setsubun is free to attend.
The admission fee for Setsubun is ¥0.
The crowd level at Setsubun is typically high.
Yes, Setsubun is held annually.
Setsubun is a seasonal festival in Japan.
Highlights of Setsubun include: Mamemaki bean-throwing ceremony with celebrities; Massive crowds gathering at Sensoji's main hall; Eating ehomaki sushi rolls while facing the lucky direction.
Tips for Setsubun: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the bean-throwing ceremony. Bring a bag to catch beans — catching them is considered lucky. Try ehomaki (thick sushi roll) eaten in silence while facing the year's lucky direction..
Setsubun welcomes international visitors. It is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Access information for Setsubun: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Tobu Skytree Line). Also accessible from Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express..
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the bean-throwing ceremony. Bring a bag to catch beans — catching them is considered lucky. Try ehomaki (thick sushi roll) eaten in silence while facing the year's lucky direction..
Photography is generally welcome at Setsubun. Check specific rules at the venue.
Setsubun is a family-friendly festival that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Festival food stalls (yatai) at Setsubun typically serve popular Japanese street food including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori. Some festivals feature regional specialties.
Yes, wearing a yukata (casual kimono) is very common and encouraged at Setsubun. Many visitors rent yukata nearby.
Parking can be limited during Setsubun. Public transportation is recommended. Check access details: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Tobu Skytree Line). Also accessible from Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express..
Mamemaki bean-throwing ceremony with celebrities; Massive crowds gathering at Sensoji's main hall; Eating ehomaki sushi rolls while facing the lucky direction
5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Tobu Skytree Line). Also accessible from Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express.
Arrive early to secure a good spot for the bean-throwing ceremony. Bring a bag to catch beans — catching them is considered lucky. Try ehomaki (thick sushi roll) eaten in silence while facing the year's lucky direction.
📍 Sensoji Temple