San Diego, January 15, 2026
On February 1, San Diego’s Japanese Friendship Garden will host its annual Setsubun celebration, welcoming spring with traditional activities. Attendees can participate in Mamemaki (bean tossing), craft Oni masks, enjoy cultural performances, and savor Japanese cuisine. This event not only marks the transition of seasons but also offers a chance to engage with the rich cultural heritage of Japan in a beautiful garden setting. General admission to the garden is required.
San Diego Celebrates Setsubun at Japanese Friendship Garden
San Diego, CA – The Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum (JFGM) in Balboa Park is set to host its annual Setsubun celebration on February 1, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This traditional Japanese festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring, offering attendees a day filled with cultural activities, performances, and culinary delights.
Event Highlights
- Mamemaki (Bean Tossing): Participate in the ritual of throwing roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits and welcome good fortune. Sessions are scheduled at 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
- Oni Mask Crafting: Create traditional demon masks as part of the Setsubun festivities.
- Performances and Demonstrations: Enjoy cultural presentations, including taiko drumming, kamishibai storytelling, and Go game demonstrations.
- Food and Merchandise: Savor Japanese cuisine and shop for unique crafts and goods from various vendors.
Admission Details
General admission to the garden is required to attend the Setsubun event. Special Masu cups filled with roasted soybeans will be available for purchase at JFGM’s Performance Area located inside the Inamori Pavilion. For more information, visit the official JFGM website or contact them directly.
About the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
Established in 1990, the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum is a serene space in Balboa Park that symbolizes the friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. The garden features traditional Japanese elements such as koi ponds, bonsai collections, and a tea pavilion, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Japanese horticulture and culture.
Background on Setsubun
Setsubun, meaning “seasonal division,” is a Japanese tradition that marks the transition between seasons, particularly the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The festival is celebrated by performing rituals intended to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. One of the key practices is Mamemaki, where participants throw roasted soybeans either out the door or at a family member wearing an oni (demon) mask, chanting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (“Out with the demons! In with good fortune!”). This act symbolizes the purification of the home and the welcoming of positive energy for the year ahead.
Additional Information
For those interested in attending, it’s advisable to check the JFGM’s official website for the latest updates and any potential changes to the event schedule. The garden is located at 2215 Pan American Road East, San Diego, CA 92101. For inquiries, contact (619) 232-2721 or visit their website at https://www.niwa.org.
FAQ
What is Setsubun?
Setsubun is a traditional Japanese festival that marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. It involves rituals like Mamemaki (bean tossing) to drive away evil spirits and welcome good fortune.
When is the Setsubun celebration at the Japanese Friendship Garden?
The Setsubun celebration is scheduled for February 1, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum in Balboa Park, San Diego.
What activities are planned for the event?
Activities include Mamemaki (bean tossing) sessions at 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, oni mask crafting, cultural performances, and food and merchandise vendors.
Is there an admission fee for the event?
General admission to the garden is required to attend the Setsubun event. Special Masu cups filled with roasted soybeans will be available for purchase at JFGM’s Performance Area located inside the Inamori Pavilion.
Where is the Japanese Friendship Garden located?
The garden is located at 2215 Pan American Road East, San Diego, CA 92101.
How can I contact the Japanese Friendship Garden for more information?
For inquiries, contact (619) 232-2721 or visit their website at https://www.niwa.org.
Key Features of the Setsubun Celebration
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mamemaki (Bean Tossing) | Ritual of throwing roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits and welcome good fortune. Sessions at 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM. |
| Oni Mask Crafting | Create traditional demon masks as part of the Setsubun festivities. |
| Performances and Demonstrations | Cultural presentations including taiko drumming, kamishibai storytelling, and Go game demonstrations. |
| Food and Merchandise | Japanese cuisine and unique crafts and goods from various vendors. |
| Admission | General admission to the garden is required. Special Masu cups filled with roasted soybeans available for purchase at JFGM’s Performance Area inside the Inamori Pavilion. |
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