On setsubun,
people scatter soya beans
inside and outside their homes yelling, "Out with the demon! In with
the happiness!" to drive away evil of the new year. As setsubun actually signifiies the
parting of the seasons, there are four setsubun in a year; the day before
beginning of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Risshun, the first
day of spring is considered especially important and various rituals
are conducted.