Traditional Japanese Festivals
The creators of Guardians of Azuma expressed a wish to invest the game with as many of the traditions of Japan as possible. In early February, the festival of Setsubon is celebrated in Japan to mark the transition between Winter and Spring. One of its highlights is Mamimaki where roasted soy beans are scattered to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. Oni masques often are worn and when the beans are thrown, there are shouts of: ‘Oni wa Soto! Fuku and Ochi!’ This translates as ‘ Oni out! Good fortune in!’ Does this sound familiar even if you never attended Setsubon? It should! In Guardians of Azuma, the children are playing and need a target to practice throwing beans. Kurama refuses but Kai, ever good humoured, volunteers under your influence and has fun with them. This is the first time you see his handsome face, when a bean hits him in the eye and he removes his masque for a moment. He chooses to see the declaration, not...