Every February 3rd, Japan celebrates Setsubun, a popular festival marked by the ritual of throwing beans to hunt the evil spirits. In Saitama prefecture, an original experience allows you to experience this tradition in a fun way: the Setsubun Mammaki Train of the Chichibu Railway company. Starting from Kumagaya to Chichibu, this special train turns a simple railway journey into a lively celebration, ideal to enrich a winter stay near Tokyo.
Setsubun in Japan: Understanding the Mamemaki Tradition
Setsubun marks the eve of spring according to the old Japanese lunar calendar. The festival is celebrated mostly on February 3rd and symbolizes the passage from one season to another. The main ritual, called mamemaki, is to throw grilled soya seeds by saying the formula “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi”, literally “Demons out, happiness in”.
The oni, demonic figures of Japanese folklore, represent misfortunes and bad influences. By throwing beans, you symbolically purify your home and attract luck for the coming year.
Throughout Japan, temples and shrines organize mamemaki ceremonies. In Chichibu, this tradition takes on a more immersive form thanks to an event train.
Setsubun Mammaki Train: a festive and accessible concept
Setsubun Mamamaki Train is organized by Chichibu Railway and connects Kumagaya to Chichibu on the Chichibu railway line.
The principle is simple and user-friendly. Participants board a train decorated with a special limited edition headmark. Before departure, at Kumagaya station, they receive bags of beans and a certificate of participation.
The train marks stops in several stations on the line. On the docks, costumed oni await the passengers. The train usually immobilizes for a few minutes, allowing passengers to descend briefly and throw beans on demons in a festive and childish atmosphere.
This staging transforms the journey into a real cultural experience, accessible to families, curious travellers and lovers of Japanese traditions.
Practical information for edition 2026
Event
Chichibu Railway Setsubun Mammaki Train
Date
3 February 2026
Hours
Departure from Kumagaya at 11:26
Arrival in Chichibu at 1.19pm
Cost
Participation in the event: 300 yen per person
Extra train ticket
A daily pass is available between Kumagaya and Chichibu, allowing unlimited journeys on the line. It is an interesting option if you plan to explore the area after the event.
No prior registration is required. Participants are welcomed in the morning at Kumagaya station, where beans and documents related to the event are distributed.
Combine the train with the visit to the Shrine of Chichibu
Upon arrival in Chichibu Shrine, it is possible to extend the experience with a Setsubun ceremony organized in this historic sanctuary.
The sanctuary is a central place in the city, known for its colourful sculptures and its major role in local festivals. On February 3, priests and guests participated in the bean throw from a stage, attracting residents and visitors.
Incorporating the sanctuary ceremony into the day allows you to discover the more traditional and religious dimension of Setsubun, in addition to the fun aspect of the train.
Explore Chichibu and Nagatoro in winter
The Chichibu region, northwest of Saitama, offers a pleasant natural setting in winter. Less frequented than major tourist destinations, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and mountain landscapes.
From the Chichibu Railway, it is easy to reach Nagatoro, famous for its river and gorges. In February, the flowers of wintersweet add a colorful touch to the winter landscape.
A balanced itinerary may include:
- Setsubun Mammaki Train in the morning
- The ceremony at the Shrine of Chichibu
- A walk to Nagatoro
- Dinner in a local hostel
This combination transforms a simple excursion into a real cultural day around Setsubun.
Practical tips to organize your day
Get in advance to Kumagaya to get your beans and participation certificate. Seats on the train are not reserved specifically for the event, so it is best to provide a comfortable margin.
Plan for cash to settle the 300 yen participation and possibly buy a daily pass. Credit cards are not always accepted at small stations.
Dress up warm. Early February can be cool in the Chichibu region, especially if you go down to the docks to participate in the bean throw.
If you are staying in Tokyo, access to Kumagaya is simple by train. Count about an hour from the centre of the capital, which makes the excursion perfectly feasible on the day.
An original winter experience near Tokyo
Setsubun Mammaki Train perfectly illustrates the creativity of Japanese railway companies to enhance local traditions. It allows you to discover an ancestral festival in a dynamic setting, without requiring in-depth knowledge of Japanese culture.
For a French-speaking traveller wishing to live a more local Japan, away from the great saturated sites, this event represents a great opportunity. It combines transport, folklore, animation and regional discovery in an accessible and user-friendly format.
Participating in Setsubun Mammaki Train is an interactive Japanese tradition while exploring the Chichibu region. A short distance from Tokyo, this winter excursion offers an authentic overview of local culture and an original way to celebrate the spring trip to Japan.
If this article has brought you useful information and can help other travellers prepare for their stay, a Google review will always be appreciated. |
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