Where to Buy Lucky Beans in Kamakura for 2026
Searching for where to buy lucky beans in Kamakura is easy during the winter season. Setsubun is a traditional festival held every year on February 3rd to welcome the spring. People throw roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits and bring in good luck. You can check the Setsubun festival Kamakura 2026 schedule to plan your visit perfectly.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Lucky Beans
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is the most famous place to find lucky beans in the city. The shrine office sells small paper packets of blessed beans starting in late January. These beans are specifically purified by priests for the upcoming 2026 Setsubun ceremonies. You will find the sales booth near the main offering hall at the top stairs.
Each packet usually costs between 200 and 500 yen depending on the size. Many visitors prefer these beans because they carry a special blessing for the new year. The packaging often features beautiful traditional artwork or the shrine's official red seal. Buying here allows you to support the maintenance of this historic Kamakura landmark.
During the first week of February, the shrine becomes very busy with local worshippers. It is best to visit in the morning to secure your lucky bean packets. You can also find other lucky charms like arrows and amulets at the same counter. For more details on local celebrations, visit the Kamakura City Tourism Association website.
The beans sold here are strictly roasted soybeans intended for the bean-throwing ritual. They are safe to eat after the ceremony is finished on February 3rd. Most people eat one bean for each year of their life for health. Make sure to keep your receipt if you are buying many for gifts.
Where to Buy Lucky Beans in Kamakura Shops
Most local supermarkets sell lucky beans starting in late January 2026 for the festival. You should visit the Tokyu Store near Kamakura Station to find many large bags. These shops offer the best prices for families who want to buy in bulk. You will often find these beans located near the front entrance displays.
Supermarket bean sets often include a free cardboard demon mask for children to wear. This makes the shopping experience fun for families exploring Kamakura winter events 2026 during their trip. You can find different varieties like plain roasted beans or sugar-coated versions. Prices at grocery stores are usually lower than at the major shrines.
Convenience stores like Lawson and 7-Eleven also stock lucky beans throughout the Kamakura area. These are perfect for travelers who need a quick snack or a small packet. They are available 24 hours a day for your convenience during the festival week. Look for the colorful Setsubun displays near the checkout counters in early February.
Buying from a local shop is a great way to see daily life. You might also find seasonal decorations like demon posters and lucky charms. These shops are located all over the city and are very easy to find. Most staff can help you find the "Fukumame" if you ask politely.
Hasedera Temple and Religious Gift Shops
Hasedera Temple is another fantastic location to purchase your lucky beans for the 2026 season. The temple gift shop sells high-quality Fukumame that are popular with many tourists. These beans are often sold in decorative boxes that make excellent souvenirs for friends. You can enjoy the beautiful ocean views while you shop for your lucky items.
The prices at Hasedera are similar to other major religious sites in the region. Expect to pay around 300 to 600 yen for a well-packaged set of beans. You can learn more about the temple's specific hours on the Hasedera Temple official website. Visiting this temple provides a peaceful atmosphere away from the busy station area.
Many people enjoy buying their beans here because of the temple's famous spiritual history. The beans are considered lucky because they are sold on sacred ground. You can also find traditional Setsubun food to eat in Kamakura at nearby stalls. This includes the famous Eho-maki sushi rolls sold on the festival day.
The gift shop is located near the entrance and is easy to access. It stays open during the regular temple hours from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Be sure to bring cash as some small temple stalls do not take cards. The staff are very friendly and can explain the meaning of the beans.
Artisanal Bean Shops on Komachi-dori
Komachi-dori is a famous shopping street that features several specialty bean boutiques for visitors. Kamakura Mameya is the most popular shop for anyone looking for unique lucky beans. They offer dozens of different flavors ranging from savory soy sauce to sweet matcha. During Setsubun, they create special gift sets that include traditional roasted soybeans.
These artisanal beans are often higher quality than those found in standard grocery stores. You can try many free samples before you decide which variety to purchase. This shop is a great place to find gifts that look very professional. The packaging is often elegant and reflects the high standards of Kamakura craftsmanship.
The shop gets very crowded on weekends so try to visit on a weekday. You will find it just a short walk from the Kamakura Station east exit. Many visitors buy several bags to take home as a memory of their trip. It is a must-visit spot for any food lover in the city.
Lists of available flavors are often posted in both Japanese and English for tourists. You can find beans coated in chocolate, plum, or even spicy wasabi flavors. While these are modern, they still celebrate the spirit of the Setsubun tradition. It is a fun way to experience a classic Japanese holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to buy lucky beans in Kamakura?
The best time to buy lucky beans is between January 25th and February 3rd, 2026. Most shops and shrines start their displays about two weeks before the festival. You should buy them early to ensure you get the best selection and avoid long lines. Many bean throwing ceremonies at Kamakura temples 2026 sell out of beans quickly on the actual day.
How much do lucky beans cost in Kamakura?
Lucky beans in Kamakura typically cost between 100 and 600 yen per packet. Supermarkets offer the cheapest options, while shrines and specialty boutiques charge a bit more for blessings or packaging. Small packets are very affordable for everyone. Larger gift boxes at artisanal shops can cost up to 1,500 yen.
Can I buy lucky beans at Kamakura Station?
Yes, you can buy lucky beans at the small kiosks and convenience stores inside Kamakura Station. These shops are very convenient for travelers arriving for a day trip. They often carry standard roasted beans and small demon masks. It is the fastest way to get your supplies before heading to the shrines.
Kamakura is a wonderful place to celebrate the Setsubun festival in 2026. You can find lucky beans at shrines, temples, and local grocery stores across the city. Remember to throw your beans while shouting for good luck to arrive this year. Enjoy your winter visit to this historic coastal city in Japan and stay safe.