Kyoto is a well-known historical city with some of the most beautiful scenic views during the cherry blossom and autumnal leaf color changing seasons.
With its abundance of historical places, temples, and shrines, there is always an event or celebration brightening the atmosphere.
MIMARU staff is excited to introduce the famous winter tradition known as [Setsubun].
We would like to introduce two famous shrines near MIMARU Kyoto Nijo Castle that host events for this specific tradition.
Heian-jingu Shrine was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto’s founding as the capital and is dedicated to the 50th Emperor of Japan, Emperor Kammu, who oversaw the establishment of Kyoto in 794. Emperor Komei, the last ruling emperor of the city, was later included.
The vermilion lacquer on the exterior showcases the beauty of the shrine.
Tsuina, a ritual to cleanse the shrine by driving away oni (demons/evil spirits), is a long-standing tradition for Setsubun. It is performed at Heian-jingu Shrine every year.
A ritual of this scale is rare and not to be missed!
After Tsuina, there is a second part of the ritual called Oni No Mai (the dance of the oni).
Here you can witness a spectacular performance by the exorcists and people dressed up as oni.
After the ritual, you can join in with the locals to try to get as many lucky beans as you can from the mamemaki (bean throwing) that is used to chase the oni out of the shrine.
How to get to Heian-jingu Shrine
MIMARU Kyoto Nijo Castle (7-minute walk) ➡ Shijo Horikawa Bus Stop (Take Bus No.46) ➡ Okazaki Park Museum of Art/Heian-jingu Shrine Bus Stop➡Heian-jingu Shrine (1-minute walk)
You will find the famous Mibu-dera Temple just a 16-minute walk from MIMARU Kyoto Nijo Castle. It is well known for its 700-year-old traditional performance called Mibu Kyogen. This temple is also well-known for its association with the Shinsengumi (the shogunate period police corps).
In February, Mibu-dera Temple holds its annual event called the Setsubun Festival.
This is a festival that has been held for over 900 years since it was initiated at the request of Emperor Shirakawa.
Mibu-Dera Temple has a very unique way of celebrating Setsubun. Visitors write their names and wishes (or those of family and friends) on an unglazed plate called houraku, which are then smashed just before Mibu Kyogen.
This is in hopes that their wishes will come true and that their year will be free from misfortune.
In addition, visitors can enjoy the various food stalls that are available during the event.
Lastly, you can’t miss the main event of Setsubun—Mibu Kyogen.
This famous performance is celebrated four times on the first two days of the festival. Many join the event, and the best part is that you enjoy it for free!
If you are in Japan during Setsubun, join in the fun and experience a unique piece of Japanese culture.
Was this article able to pique your interest in Setsubun?
Staff at MIMARU Kyoto Nijo Castle are knowledgeable about events going on and places to visit in Kyoto. With our English-speaking staff, you can get the information you need to enjoy Kyoto to the fullest.