EhoCompass

This app is a compass that supports Japan’s “Ehomaki” tradition. In Japan, there is a custom of eating a thick sushi roll called “Ehomaki” during the seasonal event called “Setsubun,” which is celebrated every year on February 3. The tradition is to face a specific direction called “Eho,” make a wish, and eat the entire roll in silence to make the wish come true. On February 3, Ehomaki is sold in large quantities at food stores throughout Japan. This compass lets you check the “Eho” direction. (It automatically displays the Eho for that year.) It is a compass for checking the Eho direction when eating Ehomaki on Setsubun. As a bonus, it comes with an Oni (demon) mask for bean-throwing. The Eho direction is displayed automatically each year. It updates automatically every year. Rotate your smartphone or tablet to match the Eho direction, and check the direction to eat your Ehomaki. When you face the Eho, the words “Ehomaki Chance!” appear, and the compass glows. Eat your Ehomaki facing that direction. As a bonus, there is a convenient Oni mask for bean-throwing. During Setsubun, there is an event called “Mamemaki” (bean-throwing). A family member (usually the father) dresses up as an Oni (demon). You throw roasted soybeans (called “fukumame”) at the Oni while shouting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” This means “Demons out! Good fortune in!” and is meant to wish for family happiness. By tapping the “Oni Mask for Mamemaki” button, an Oni mask will appear. There are two types: red Oni and blue Oni. On tablets, it displays a full-face version, and on smartphones, a smaller version that only covers the eye area is available, so you can choose as you like. We also provide data for Oni masks that can be printed on paper, which you can download from the app guide and use. ■ Besides February 3, there are also summer Setsubun in August and autumn Setsubun in November.