With the annual setsubun bean-throwing festival approaching on Feb. 3, the production of fukumasu containers used for bean-throwing events is reaching its peak at Daichiin temple in Chita, Aichi Prefecture.
In the priest's quarters -- where the 1.8-liter-capacity wooden containers are piled up and the air is filled with the aroma of hinoki Japanese cypress produced in the Tono region of Gifu Prefecture -- temple priest Jissho Hasegawa, 70, carefully writes kanji characters on the boxes. The characters include "fuku" (luck) and "kotobuki" (congratulations or longevity) as well as a set that means "extinguishing troubles and bestowing happiness." The priest said he plans to complete 2,500 boxes this month.
The fukumasu, which literally means "lucky container," will be distributed along with beans and a lucky charm to visitors who attend prayer services at the temple on Feb. 3.
"I'm writing each character wishing everyone a healthy year," said Hasegawa.
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