Make Your Own “Oni” Mask: Setsubun Coloring Page
Welcome to Nuripla! Today, we are introducing a coloring page that lets you experience a traditional Japanese event called “Setsubun” (節分).
What is Setsubun?
Setsubun is a festival held in early February (usually February 3rd) in Japan to mark the day before the beginning of spring. It is a time to drive away evil spirits and welcome good fortune.
Learn Japanese: Keywords for Setsubun
- Oni (鬼 – おに): A Japanese ogre or demon. In this festival, they represent bad luck or evil spirits.
- Mamemaki (豆まき – まめまき): The act of throwing roasted soybeans to drive the Oni away.
- “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (鬼は外！福は内！): The famous phrase shouted while throwing beans. It means “Demons out! Good luck in!”
How to Use This Coloring Page
This printable features a large face of an Oni. It is designed not just as a coloring page, but also as a craft project to make a wearable mask.
- Download & Print: Print the image on A4 paper. Using cardstock (thicker paper) is recommended for masks.
- Color: Oni are often depicted as Red (Aka-oni) or Blue (Ao-oni), but you can use any colors you like!
- Cut: Carefully cut along the outline of the face.
- Wear: Attach a rubber band or a strip of paper to the sides to wear it as a mask.
Download this free coloring page and enjoy learning about Japanese culture while getting creative. Let’s practice saying “Oni wa soto!” while making your mask!