As a geisha girl, a sumo wrestler and other prominent personalities throw out roasted beans to the crowd that has gathered. As the beans are scattered, the person who tosses chants or sings: ‘“Devil outside, good luck inside.’” Custom is part of the temple festivities and Merry-making which greet the change of season, which comes on February 3 in Japan. To be chosen as one of the bean-throwers at the annual temple rites is considered a great honor, for which geishas, wrestlers, movie actresses and other public figures vie.
