Traditional Setsubun Food to Eat in Kamakura: Eho-maki

Eho-maki is a thick sushi roll eaten for good luck. People eat the whole roll while facing a specific direction. For 2026, the lucky direction is South-Southeast. You must stay silent while eating the entire roll.

These rolls usually contain seven different ingredients. These ingredients represent the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan. Common fillings include cucumber, egg, and seasoned eel. Each bite brings hope for health and wealth.

Many shops near Kamakura Station sell these rolls in February. Local supermarkets offer special gourmet versions with fresh seafood. You should order yours early to avoid long lines. Prices range from 800 to 2,000 yen per roll.

Visiting the city during the Setsubun festival Kamakura 2026 schedule is exciting. You can enjoy your sushi roll after watching temple ceremonies. Many locals take their rolls to the beach for a view. This makes for a very memorable meal.

Fuku-mame Roasted Soybeans for Good Luck

Fuku-mame are roasted soybeans known as "lucky beans." People throw these beans to drive away evil spirits. This tradition is called Mamemaki and happens at many temples. It is a core part of the holiday.

After the throwing ceremony, you must eat the beans. You should eat the number of beans equal to your age. Some people eat one extra bean for good luck next year. This practice is said to prevent illness.

You can find these beans at where to buy lucky beans in Kamakura shops. Many temples give them away in small paper packets. They have a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture. They are a healthy and symbolic snack.

Be sure to check the bean throwing times at shrines. Large crowds gather at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu for this event. It is a fun activity for families and solo travelers. The atmosphere is energetic and full of tradition.

Grilled Sardines and Holly Protection

Eating grilled sardines is another common Setsubun tradition. This custom is more popular in certain regions of Japan. The strong smell of the fish wards off demons. It is often served with ginger or soy sauce.

People also hang sardine heads on holly branches. This charm is placed near the entrance of homes. The prickly holly leaves protect the house from evil. It is a unique sight in older Kamakura neighborhoods.

You can buy fresh sardines at local Kamakura fish markets. Many traditional restaurants serve them as a seasonal special. Expect to pay around 500 yen for a simple dish. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Warm Kenchinjiru Soup from Kamakura Temples

Kenchinjiru is a hearty vegetable soup originating in Kamakura. It was first made at the famous Kencho-ji Temple centuries ago. This vegan soup is perfect for cold February days. It features root vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms.

The soup is seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. It provides warmth and energy during the winter festival. Many temple visitors seek this dish after the bean-throwing events. It reflects the Zen Buddhist history of the city.

Several restaurants near the temple specialize in this soup. A bowl usually costs between 600 and 1,200 yen. It is a healthy way to experience local food culture. Don't miss this authentic Kamakura culinary experience.

You can also find this soup at stalls during Kamakura winter events 2026 celebrations. It is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The simple ingredients highlight the natural flavors of the produce. It is a comforting meal for any traveler.

Sweet Setsubun Wagashi and Demon Treats

Kamakura is famous for its wide variety of traditional sweets. During Setsubun, shops create special bean-themed wagashi. These delicate treats often look like colorful demons or lucky charms. They pair perfectly with hot green tea.

Look for shops along Komachi-dori street for these items. Many stores offer limited edition sets for 2026. Prices for individual sweets start around 300 yen. They make excellent gifts for friends and family.

Some temples like Hasedera Temple sell unique seasonal snacks. These often feature local ingredients from the Kanagawa region. Trying these sweets is a great way to support local artisans. It adds a sweet touch to your festival visit.