{"id":7910,"date":"2026-02-02T09:00:55","date_gmt":"2026-02-02T00:00:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/?post_type=en_blog&p=7910"},"modified":"2025-12-23T10:49:32","modified_gmt":"2025-12-23T01:49:32","slug":"february-3rd-is-setsubun-%f0%9f%91%b9%e2%9c%a8-enjoy-a-traditional-japanese-festival-in-kimono-during-your-nara-sightseeing-trip-%f0%9f%91%98","status":"publish","type":"en_blog","link":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/en\/blog\/2026\/02\/02\/february-3rd-is-setsubun-%f0%9f%91%b9%e2%9c%a8-enjoy-a-traditional-japanese-festival-in-kimono-during-your-nara-sightseeing-trip-%f0%9f%91%98\/","title":{"rendered":"February 3rd Is Setsubun \ud83d\udc79\u2728 Enjoy a Traditional Japanese Festival in Kimono During Your Nara Sightseeing Trip \ud83d\udc58"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hello and welcome!<\/strong><\/p>\n

This is Kimono Rental Waplus Nara \u2013 Nara Park Bus Terminal Store \ud83c\udf19\u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\ud83d\udc58\"\"\ud83d\udc79\"\"\ud83d\udc58\"\"\ud83d\udc79\"\"\ud83d\udc58\"<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Although the cold weather is still with us, <\/strong><\/p>\n

according to the traditional Japanese calendar, <\/strong><\/p>\n

spring is just around the corner \ud83c\udf38<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Around Nara City and the Nara Park area, <\/strong><\/p>\n

the atmosphere is gradually becoming livelier as “Setsubun” celebrations approach \ud83c\udfb5<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In February, Japan celebrates a long-standing traditional event known as “Setsubun”, <\/strong><\/p>\n

which marks the transition from winter to spring \ud83c\udf8e<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In Nara City and around Nara Park, <\/strong><\/p>\n

you can enjoy many fun events related to “Setsubun”.\ud83d\udc79<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In this blog, we will introduce the meaning and origin of “Setsubun”,<\/strong><\/p>\n

the local “Setsubun” events held in Nara, <\/strong><\/p>\n

and helpful tips on how to fully enjoy Nara sightseeing in kimono rental \ud83d\udc58\u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u3010What Is “Setsubun”? \u3011<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Setsubun is a traditional Japanese event held at the change of seasons to ward off evil spirits and pray for health and happiness \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Originally, Setsubun referred to the day before the beginning of each season: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Today, it is primarily celebrated on the day before Risshun (the first day of spring) \u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This day is cherished as a time to drive away the bad luck of winter and welcome the happiness of spring \ud83c\udf40<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Since Setsubun is celebrated the day before Risshun (the first day of spring), <\/strong><\/p>\n

it does not always fall on February 3rd \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The date of Risshun can change slightly each year, <\/strong><\/p>\n

which means the date of Setsubun may also shift \ud83c\udfb5<\/strong><\/p>\n

In fact, in some past years, Setsubun has even been observed on February 2nd or February 4th \ud83d\ude0a<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u3010\ud83c\udf31 The Meaning and Origins of Setsubun\u3011<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u226a The Seasonal Turning Point: What “Setsubun”<\/strong>\u00a0Means\u226b<\/strong><\/p>\n

The word \u201cSetsubun\u201d literally means \u201cseasonal division\u201d \u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

In the past, Setsubun was celebrated four times a year, marking the change of each season.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Today, however, the day before Risshun (the first day of spring) is considered the most important \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

This is why Setsubun is widely recognized as the festival that drives away winter\u2019s bad luck and welcomes spring\u2019s happiness \ud83c\udf31<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u226aThe Origins of Bean-Throwing: From Court Rituals to Modern Setsubun\u226b<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

In Japan, it was traditionally believed that evil spirits were more likely to appear at the turning of the seasons.<\/strong><\/p>\n

To ward off these spirits, the Imperial Court held a ceremony called \u201cTsuina\u201d, a ritual to drive away demons \ud83d\udc79\u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

Over time, this custom spread to the general public and evolved into today\u2019s fun and lively bean-throwing festival, known as \u201cmamemaki\u201d.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Participating in mamemaki is not only enjoyable but also a way to experience authentic Japanese culture, <\/strong>especially while visiting Nara and its historic sites.<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u226a\u201cDriving Away Evil\u201d: Why Roasted Soybeans Are Used in Setsubun\u226b<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

During Setsubun, people throw roasted soybeans (mamemaki) \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

The beans used for this tradition are always roasted \u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

This is because if the beans were to sprout, it was believed that evil spirits could also \u201csprout\u201d, <\/strong><\/p>\n

which would be unlucky.<\/strong><\/p>\n

To prevent this, roasted beans are used, symbolically ensuring that evil is properly driven away \ud83c\udfb5<\/strong><\/p>\n

Throwing these beans is a fun way to participate in an age-old Japanese ritual, <\/strong><\/p>\n

and a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional culture while sightseeing in Nara.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u3010\ud83c\udf8e Setsubun Events Around Nara City and Nara Park\ud83e\udd8c\u3011<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Nara is home to many historic temples and shrines \u26e9\ufe0f<\/strong><\/p>\n

On Setsubun, each location hosts special traditional events \ud83d\udc79\u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u226aTodai-ji Temple\u226b<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25cfO-takiage at Nigatsu-do<\/strong><\/p>\n

A sacred ceremony where old talismans and charms are burned in a purification fire \ud83d\udd25<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25cfBean-Throwing (Afternoon)<\/strong><\/p>\n

From a special stage in front of Hokke-do at the foot of Nigatsu-do,<\/strong><\/p>\n

beans and small bells are thrown for worshippers. <\/strong><\/p>\n

Visitors can catch the beans and receive blessings \u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25cfStar Festival (Hoshi Kuyou)<\/strong><\/p>\n

A night-time ritual to pray for protection and good fortune by offering prayers to the stars \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u226aKofuku-ji Temple\u226b<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25cfTsuina-e Ceremony<\/strong>
\nA traditional ritual that combines the Imperial Court demon-chasing ceremony,<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chinese philosophy, and Buddhist practices.<\/strong><\/p>\n

It is held to drive away evil spirits and pray for a safe new year \ud83c\udf40<\/strong><\/p>\n

Visitors can enjoy demon-chasing and bean-throwing events,<\/strong><\/p>\n

experiencing Japan\u2019s history and the changing seasons \ud83c\udfb5<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u226aKasuga Taisha Shrine\u226b<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25cfSetsubun Mantoro (Lantern Festival)<\/strong><\/p>\n

About 3,000 lanterns on the shrine grounds are lit to pray for people\u2019s wishes \u26e9<\/strong><\/p>\n

Many of these lanterns have been donated since the Heian period,<\/strong><\/p>\n

carrying prayers for family safety, business success, and more \u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

During Setsubun night, traditional dances (Bugaku) are performed, <\/strong><\/p>\n

creating a magical scene that highlights Nara\u2019s history and spiritual heritage \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

The illuminated approach to the shrine is also perfect for photography \ud83d\udcf8\u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u226aGango-ji Temple\u226b<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25cfSetsubun-e Ceremony<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Fudo Myo-o statue is enshrined in the main hall, <\/strong><\/p>\n

and prayers are offered for warding off misfortune, family safety, and personal wishes \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

The grounds feature fire rituals and crossing of flames performed by Shugenja monks, <\/strong><\/p>\n

which visitors can also participate in \u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

A unique bean-throwing ritual chanting \u201cFuku wa uchi, Oni wa uchi\u201d (\u201cFortune in, demons in\u201d) is held, symbolically driving away inner demons and inviting good fortune \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u226aRyosen-ji Temple\u226b<\/strong><\/p>\n

Setsubun Hoshi Matsuri Ceremony<\/strong><\/p>\n

On this day marking the turn of the year, <\/strong><\/p>\n

stars are honored and prayers are offered for protection from misfortune, <\/strong><\/p>\n

good luck, and good health \ud83c\udfb5<\/strong><\/p>\n

After the ceremony, lucky beans (fukumame) are distributed,<\/strong><\/p>\n

making this a peaceful and meaningful way to celebrate Setsubun \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u3010 Explore Nara in Kimono During the Setsubun Season\ud83d\udc58\u2728\u3011<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Setsubun is a traditional Japanese festival \ud83c\udf8d<\/strong><\/p>\n

Wearing a kimono makes the experience even more special \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The elegant look of kimono perfectly complements the scenery of Nara Park and historic temples and shrines, creating unforgettable memories and beautiful photos \ud83d\udcf7\u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u3010 Enjoy Setsubun in Nara Wearing a Kimono \ud83c\udfb5\u3011<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u25c6Setsubun is a traditional Japanese festival celebrating the beginning of spring \ud83c\udf8e<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25c6Combining bean-throwing and lantern events creates a truly special experience \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25c6Around Nara City and Nara Park, you can enjoy a variety of temple and shrine events, including bean-throwing and lantern ceremonies \u26e9<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25c6The clear winter air and historic scenery provide perfect photo opportunities \ud83d\udcf8<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We hope you will enjoy Setsubun in beautiful kimono \ud83d\udc9b<\/strong><\/p>\n

Wishing you a day full of happiness and good fortune \ud83c\udf1f<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u3010 If You Want to Rent a Kimono in Nara, We Recommend \u201cKimono Rental <\/span>Waplus Nara \u2013 Nara Park Bus Terminal Store\u201d\u3011<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Kimono Rental Waplus Nara \u2013 Nara Park Bus Terminal Store is<\/strong><\/p>\n

the perfect choice for winter kimono rental in Nara \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

Located right in front of Nara Park \ud83c\udfb5, <\/strong><\/p>\n

it\u2019s just a short walk to Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Once you\u2019re dressed in kimono, <\/strong><\/p>\n

you can immediately enjoy interacting with the friendly deer \ud83e\udd8c\u2728<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We offer a wide selection of vibrant colors, classic patterns, <\/strong><\/p>\n

plain and lace kimonos, along with a variety of accessories, <\/strong><\/p>\n

so you can create your own unique winter look \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Not sure which kimono to choose? <\/strong><\/p>\n

Our friendly staff are happy to give advice and help you find the perfect outfit (\u22c8\u25cd\uff1e\u25e1\uff1c\u25cd).\u2727\u2661<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reservations can be made online, <\/strong><\/p>\n

and for popular seasons such as autumn-winter sightseeing and Shichi-Go-San, <\/strong><\/p>\n

or for antique kimonos, we recommend booking early \u2763\u2763<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

If you want to enjoy Nara sightseeing, New Year visits,<\/strong><\/p>\n

or seasonal events in kimono, <\/strong><\/p>\n

Waplus Nara is the perfect place to experience seasonal and stylish kimono rental \ud83c\udfb5<\/strong><\/p>\n

With winter-themed colors and patterns,<\/strong><\/p>\n

you can make your special day even more memorable \ud83d\udc58\u26c4<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We recommend reserving your preferred plan in advance!
\n\u25bc Book online here:
\n\ud83d\udc49 https:\/\/reserva.be\/waplusbt<\/a><\/p>\n

Follow us on Instagram for the latest information and customer outfit photos:
\n\ud83d\udc49\u00a0https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/waplusnara\/<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Please Note:<\/span><\/p>\n

Photos are for reference; actual stock may vary.<\/span><\/p>\n

Desired kimonos may be unavailable if already rented.<\/span><\/p>\n

On-location photo shoots require advance reservation and may be affected by weather or crowd conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u3010Enjoy Autumn and Winter in the Historic City of Nara Wearing a Kimono \u3011<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Why not make your Nara trip even more memorable by experiencing kimono rental in the beautiful autumn and winter scenery of Nara (\u00b4\ua4b3`) \u2728<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Kimono experiences are perfect for creating lasting memories,<\/p>\n

whether it\u2019s a special anniversary, festival, or a casual outing \ud83d\udc97<\/p>\n

Capture beautiful photos in kimono or yukata, and enjoy time with friends or family \ud83c\udfb5<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Feel free to explore Nara in a kimono and let us help make your trip unforgettable.<\/p>\n

Kimono Rental Waplus Nara \u2013 Nara Park Bus Terminal Store is here to assist you every step of the way (\u00b4\ua4b3`) \u2728<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\ud83c\udfb5*\u309c\u2022.\u00b8\u00b8\ud83c\udf38\ud83c\udf43\ud83c\udfb5\u309c\u2022.\u00b8\u00b8\ud83c\udfb6\u2022.\u00b8\u00b8\ud83c\udf38\ud83c\udf43\ud83c\udfb5*<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Kimono Rental Waplus Nara \u2013 Nara Park Bus Terminal Store
\n2F, Nara Park Bus Terminal West Building, 76 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, 630-8213, Japan<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udc49Instagram: https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/waplusbt\/<\/a><\/p>\n

\u260eTel: +81-742-25-2300<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":7906,"template":"","en_blog_cat":[69,68,18],"class_list":["post-7910","en_blog","type-en_blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","en_blog_cat-event-information","en_blog_cat-tourist-information","en_blog_cat-staffblog","entry"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/en_blog\/7910","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/en_blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/en_blog"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7906"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7910"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"en_blog_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/waplus-kimono.com\/nara\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/en_blog_cat?post=7910"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}