Rinnoji Temple in Nikko Starts Making Lucky Beans for Setsubun Festival

Preparation for 'Fuku Mame' Beans Begins at Nikko's Rinnoji Temple, a World Heritage Site

NIKKO, Jan 23 (News On Japan) - At the Rinnoji Temple in Tochigi Prefecture, preparations for 'Fuku Mame' beans to be used in next month's Setsubun festival have begun.

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In the main hall of Rinnoji Temple, amid the sound of conch shells, monks performed a purification ritual, swinging their swords over the beans.

This bean-making tradition is an annual event that traditionally starts around the period of 'Daikan' (coldest season).

Each Fukumasu (lucky measuring box) used to contain the beans is carefully stamped with 'Rinnoji Temple' by the temple's staff.

Masanori Shibata of Rinnoji Temple shared, "We prepare these with hopes for a brighter future not only for those connected to Rinnoji but for everyone living in Japan and beyond, regardless of nationality."

Approximately 300 kilograms of Fuku Mame and a total of 180 Fukumasu of various sizes will be prepared until the day of the Setsubun Festival on February 3rd.

This year, for the first time in four years, there will be a 'Fortune Scattering' event where worshippers gathered at the temple will receive sweets and auspicious items.

by Andrew Yang

Source: ANN

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