Setsubun Festival Kamakura 2026 Schedule

The festival occurs on February 3, 2026. Activities usually begin around 11:00 AM at the temple grounds. The main ceremony starts in the early afternoon hours. Check the Setsubun festival Kamakura 2026 schedule for exact times.

Arrive early to get a good spot near the stage. The temple grounds become very crowded by noon. Most ceremonies finish by 3:00 PM that day. This allows time to visit other nearby shrines.

The morning hours feature quiet prayers inside the main hall. You can hear the rhythmic chanting of the monks. This creates a peaceful mood before the main event. It is a great time for photography.

The afternoon brings a much louder and energetic atmosphere. Crowds gather around the wooden stage built for the day. You will feel the excitement as the celebrities arrive. Please follow the directions of the temple staff.

Traditional Bean Throwing and Rituals

The main event is the bean-throwing ceremony. Monks and local celebrities throw roasted soybeans at the crowd. This tradition drives away evil spirits for the year. Participants shout "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!"

This phrase means "Demons out! Luck in!" You should try to catch the small packets. These beans bring good luck to your family. Many people bring bags to collect the treats.

Kenchoji is the oldest Zen temple in Kamakura. Its large courtyard provides space for the large crowd. You can also see the grand Sanmon gate. This gate is a national treasure of Japan.

The beans used are called fukumame, or lucky beans. Eating the number of beans for your age is common. This practice ensures good health for the coming year. You can learn more about bean-throwing ceremonies at Kamakura temples 2026 online.

During the ritual, you might see people dressed as demons. These performers wear colorful masks and carry clubs. They represent the bad luck being chased away. It is a very visual and fun experience.

Essential Tips for Festival Visitors

Wear warm clothes for your visit in February. Temperatures in Kamakura often stay below 10°C (50°F). The temple grounds are mostly outdoors and windy. Comfortable walking shoes are also very important.

Entry to Kenchoji Temple costs 500 yen for adults. Children can enter for a lower price of 200 yen. Bring cash for the entrance fee and snacks. Many small stalls sell traditional Setsubun food in Kamakura nearby.

Keep your belongings close in the large crowds. The bean throwing can get quite energetic and fast. Watch out for flying packets near your head. Stay near the back if you have small children.

You can find official updates from the Kamakura City Tourism Association website. They provide maps and local travel alerts. Check their site on the morning of the event. This ensures you have the latest information.

Access and Transportation to Kenchoji

Kenchoji Temple is located in the North Kamakura area. You can take the JR Yokosuka Line to Kita-Kamakura Station. The temple is a 15-minute walk from the station. Follow the signs leading toward central Kamakura.

Buses also run from Kamakura Station to the temple. Look for buses heading toward Ofuna or Kita-Kamakura. The ride takes about 10 minutes in light traffic. Walking is often faster during busy festival days.

Parking near the temple is very limited and expensive. We recommend using public transport for this event. You can find more Kamakura winter events 2026 to visit. This helps you plan a full day of sightseeing.

If you walk from the station, enjoy the local shops. Many cafes offer warm tea and seasonal sweets. The walk is flat and easy for most people. It is a beautiful way to see the city.