Since the late Edo period, the Setsubun Festival has been cherished as a ritual for warding off evil and purifying the soul. At Kushida Shrine, visitors are welcomed by Japan’s largest ‘Otafuku’ mask. It is believed that passing through the widely opened mouth of this mask brings blessings of business prosperity and household safety.
On February 3rd, the highlight of the festival unfolds with a special bean-throwing ceremony, known as ‘Mamemaki.’ Held on a special stage, this ceremony features the year’s honored men and women scattering beans to the crowd. This ritual is a symbolic act to drive away evil spirits and invite good luck and happiness into our lives.
• 2/3 (Sat.)
• Mamemaki (bean-scattering) ritual: 10:00~16:00 (every 30~40 min.)
• Kushida Shrine
• 1-41 Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
