Celebrate “Setsubun” with this Japanese Cultural Coloring Page
Explore the traditions of Japan through art! This coloring page features Setsubun (節分), a traditional Japanese festival held on February 3rd, marking the day before the beginning of spring.
What is “Mamemaki”? (Learning Japanese Culture)
The main activity shown in this illustration is called Mamemaki (豆まき), or “bean throwing.”
- The Action: People throw roasted soy beans at a symbol of evil spirits.
- The Chant: While throwing beans, people shout “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (鬼は外！福は内！).
- The Meaning: This translates to “Demons out! Fortune in!” It is a ritual to drive away bad luck and invite happiness for the coming year.
Japanese Vocabulary in this Image
Use this coloring page to learn new Japanese words:
- Setsubun no Hi (せつぶんのひ): The day of Setsubun.
- Oni (おに): The demon or ogre (shown with horns and tiger-skin pants).
- Otafuku (おたふく): The mask of a smiling woman, representing good luck.
- Hiiragi Iwashi (ひいらぎいわし): A decoration made of holly and sardine heads to ward off evil spirits.
This illustration is designed with bold lines, making it easy to color for seniors and children alike. Download it for your Japanese language class or cultural activity!