Shimokitazawa Tengu Festival 2028

The highlights of the festival include an enormous tengu mask parading the streets, food stalls, and a soybean stamp rally.

What happens?

Every year during Japan’s Setsubun Festival (the day before spring in the old Japanese calendar), demon-like characters called tengu prowl the streets of Shimokitazawa. Residents scatter roasted soybeans around these creatures and chant “Fuku wa uchi!” (“Fortune in!”) three times.

Why you shouldn’t say “Oni wa soto!”

Traditionally in Japan, before “Fuku wa uchi!” you are meant to say “Oni wa soto!” (“Demons out!”) but that is prohibited to wish upon the demons of Shimokitazawa. It comes from the idea that the tengu will naturally disappear after hearing wishes of good fortune, plus they are seen as bringers of luck themselves.

Schedule 2026

Here’s what this year’s schedule looks like:

• January 30 (Fri.): A crow-like tengu will visit various shops, bars, and restaurants around Shimokitazawa from around 8 p.m.
• January 31 (Sat.): From around 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., the Great Tengu and the Crow Tengu will parade the streets, trailed by the famous giant tengu mask float. They will do two rounds of the shopping street on the east side of the station.
• February 1 (Sun.): On Sunday, organizers will host a lucky bean scooping competition. If you scoop the special weight thats announced on the day (or close to it) you’ll win a special prize.