Setsubun is a Japanese seasonal tradition that marks the “turn of the season” in late winter, usually on February 3 (sometimes February 2). Families do simple rituals at home—throwing roasted soybeans and eating a lucky-direction sushi roll—to symbolically sweep out misfortune and welcome good luck. In modern Japan, Setsubun is less about religion and more about a yearly “reset”: a fun, family-centered moment that combines food, actions, and sometimes decorations into one memorable night. And honestly, you could sum it up like this: Setsubun is the day Japan throws beans… and then takes a big bite of a giant sushi ...
