Best Places to See Bean Throwing in Nara 2026
Nara offers some of the most historic venues for the traditional bean throwing festival in early 2026. You can join thousands of locals as they shout to drive away evil spirits this coming February. Many ancient temples host these unique ceremonies to welcome the upcoming spring season with great joy. This guide will help you discover exactly where to see bean throwing in Nara during your winter trip.
Kofuku-ji Temple Bean Throwing Events
Kofuku-ji Temple hosts one of the most famous bean throwing events in Nara every single year. The ceremony features scary demons who dance around the temple grounds to entertain the large local crowds. Monks throw roasted soybeans at these demons to symbolize the purification of the entire Nara community. Visitors can catch small packets of lucky beans to ensure good fortune for the coming 2026 year.
The main event usually begins around 1:00 PM near the iconic Central Golden Hall in the park. You should arrive early because the temple grounds fill up quickly with excited families and foreign tourists. Watch the traditional demon dances at Nara Setsubun festivals before the actual bean throwing starts. These performances are highly energetic and provide excellent photo opportunities for everyone visiting the historic temple site.
Entry to the temple grounds is free but some special viewing areas may require a small fee. Expect to pay around 500 yen if you want to enter the inner sanctum for prayers. The atmosphere is very festive and loud as people shout for the demons to leave the area. This event is perfect for those who want to experience authentic Japanese culture in a historic setting.
Check the Kofuku-ji Temple Setsubun event schedule 2026 for the most accurate timing details before you go. Most ceremonies conclude by 3:00 PM so you have time to visit other nearby attractions in Nara. Remember to dress warmly because the February winds can feel quite cold while standing outside for long. You will likely see many local residents wearing traditional clothing during this important cultural celebration today.
Todai-ji Temple Nigatsu-do Ceremonies
The Nigatsu-do hall at Todai-ji Temple provides a stunning backdrop for the Setsubun bean throwing ritual. Priests and local dignitaries throw beans from the high balcony to the people waiting down below. This event usually takes place in the early afternoon on February 3rd during the 2026 season. You should arrive at least one hour early to secure a good viewing spot near the hall.
The view from the Nigatsu-do balcony offers a panoramic look over the city of Nara during the day. You can see the giant roof of the Great Buddha Hall while waiting for the beans to fall. Many people bring bags to catch as many beans as possible for their friends and family members. Consult the Todai-ji Temple Setsubun ceremony times 2026 to plan your afternoon arrival perfectly.
The ritual at Todai-ji is slightly more formal than the events held at other smaller Nara temples. You will hear rhythmic chanting and traditional music playing throughout the entire ceremony on the temple grounds. It is a powerful experience that combines religious devotion with a fun community atmosphere for all ages. Visit the official Todai-ji Temple website to confirm the exact start times for the ceremony.
After the bean throwing ends you can explore the rest of the massive Todai-ji temple complex easily. The walk from Nigatsu-do to the main hall takes about ten minutes through beautiful wooded park paths. You might even see the famous Nara deer wandering around looking for their own lucky bean snacks. Please be careful not to feed the deer any of the roasted beans you have caught today.
How to Participate in Nara Setsubun Rituals
Participating in the Setsubun rituals requires a bit of preparation to ensure you have a great time. You should learn the traditional phrase which means demons out and good luck in for the ceremony. Shouting this loudly with the crowd is a key part of the bean throwing experience in Nara. Wear comfortable shoes because you will be standing on gravel or stone paths for several hours today.
Buying a lucky charm or a small mask at the temple entrance is a very popular activity. These items serve as great souvenirs and help you feel more connected to the local holiday spirit. Many temples also sell special lucky beans that have been blessed by the resident monks for protection. You can find more tips on how to participate in Nara Setsubun rituals online before your trip.
Food plays a major role in the Setsubun celebrations across the Kansai region and Nara city specifically. You should look for ehomaki which are long sushi rolls eaten while facing a lucky compass direction. Eating the entire roll in silence is said to bring great success for the rest of the year. Many local shops near Nara Park sell these delicious rolls throughout the day on February 3rd, 2026.
Public transportation is the best way to reach Nara Park during the busy Setsubun festival weekend in February. Both the JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station are within walking distance of the main temples. Use the Nara City Tourism Association website to find maps and bus schedules for the area. Arriving by train helps you avoid the heavy traffic and limited parking near the popular festival sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does bean throwing start in Nara?
Most bean throwing events in Nara start between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on February 3rd. Kofuku-ji typically begins their ceremony in the early afternoon while Todai-ji follows shortly after. It is best to arrive by noon to find a safe and clear viewing spot.
Is there a fee to watch the Setsubun festivals?
Watching the bean throwing ceremonies at major Nara temples is generally free for all public visitors. Some temples might charge a small entry fee of 500 to 1,000 yen for specific inner areas. You should carry some cash for food, lucky charms, and small temple donations.
Can children participate in the bean throwing?
Yes children are very welcome to participate in the bean throwing festivities throughout the city of Nara. Many temples have dedicated areas where kids can safely catch beans away from the larger adult crowds. It is a very family-friendly event that children of all ages will truly enjoy.
Nara provides a magical setting to experience the traditional Setsubun bean throwing rituals during your 2026 visit. Whether you choose Kofuku-ji or Todai-ji you will witness a vibrant part of Japanese cultural history. Remember to eat your lucky sushi roll and shout loudly to welcome the spring season with joy. Plan your trip early to enjoy the best of Nara during this exciting winter festival time.