On February 3, 2026, the day of Setsubun, the "Tsuinashiki Onihoraku" ritual to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune was held at Rosanji Temple in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City. A large crowd of worshippers watched in rapt attention as three demons, symbolizing human desires, were driven away.
Known as the "Oniodori," this ritual originates from a story about a thousand years ago in which Rosanji Temple's founder, Ganzan Daishi, drove away demons.
A little after 3:00 PM, prayers began inside the Ganzan Daishi Hall on the temple grounds. Amid the sounds of drums and conch shells, red, blue, and black demons appeared on a specially erected stage within the temple grounds. They slowly scanned the faces of worshippers and advanced, brandishing swords and axes. They entered the hall and danced around the monks as they prayed, but were weakened by the power of the ritual and staggered away.
Once the demon had left, "Horai beans," which are said to extend one's lifespan when eaten, and "Fukumochi," which are said to bring good fortune and career success, were scattered, and the lively voices of worshippers hoping to seize good fortune echoed throughout the temple grounds.
