Hinamatsuri, a Japanese festival celebrating the growth of girls, takes place on March 3rd. Known as "Momo no Sekku" (Peach Festival), this tradition has a rich history. Here, we’ll delve into its origins, the proper way to display hina dolls, essential dishes, and contemporary ways to enjoy the festival.
What Is Hinamatsuri? A Simple Explanation
Held on "March 3rd," Hinamatsuri is a celebration wishing for the health and growth of girls. Families with daughters traditionally display hina dolls and decorative items like hishi mochi (diamond-shaped rice cakes). It’s also common to enjoy foods like chirashizushi, hina-arare (colorful rice crackers), and clear clam soup (hamaguri no osuimono) as part of the celebration.
The Origins and History of Hinamatsuri
The Origins of Hinamatsuri: Rooted in Ancient Chinese Traditions
The origins of Hinamatsuri trace back over 1,000 years to the mid-Heian period in Japan. It is said to be influenced by the ancient Chinese custom known as "Shangsi Festival" (Jōshi no Sekku). In ancient China, "Shangsi" was considered an unlucky day, and people would purify their bodies by riversides to ward off misfortune. Although the specific date of "Shangsi" evolved over time, it is now fixed on March 3rd.
The History of Hinamatsuri
When this tradition arrived in Japan, Heian aristocrats began celebrating "Shangsi" with an activity called "Kyokusui no En" (The Banquet of the Winding Stream). In this elegant pastime, participants sat along a winding stream, composing waka (Japanese poems) or Chinese poems as cups of sake floated downstream. They would drink the sake when the cup reached them.
Additionally, customs such as drinking peach-infused sake and eating yomogi mochi (mugwort rice cakes) on this day emerged as ways to ward off evil spirits and purify the body.
In Japan, there has long been a tradition of transferring impurities or misfortune to dolls made of clay or paper and then releasing them into rivers. This custom eventually merged with the Shangsi Festival.
Additionally, in the past, young girls' doll play was referred to as "Hiina Asobi" (雛遊び). As doll-making techniques advanced, dolls began to be preserved and displayed. By the Muromachi period, the tradition of Hinamatsuri had taken shape. During the Edo period, the festival was lavishly celebrated by samurai families and the aristocracy, eventually becoming popular in ordinary households as well.
The Meaning and Display of Hina Dolls
The Significance of Displaying Hina Dolls and When to Take Them Down
Today, hina dolls are displayed as a wish from parents for their daughters to be protected from illness, accidents, and other misfortunes, and to eventually build a happy family. Since hina dolls originally served as a means of warding off evil, it is recommended to prepare them before the festival and to put them away promptly once it ends.
It is also said that each girl should have her own set of hina dolls, rather than inheriting them from parents or siblings. This is because the dolls are believed to act as substitutes, absorbing misfortune on behalf of the child.
The Meaning of Peach Blossoms and Hishi Mochi
It is customary to decorate with peach blossoms alongside the hina dolls during Hinamatsuri. This tradition stems from the Shangsi Festival in ancient China, where consuming peach wine or yomogi mochi (mugwort rice cakes) was thought to ward off evil spirits. In Japan, peaches have also long been believed to possess protective powers against misfortune. Additionally, the festival coincides with the blooming season of peach blossoms.
The colorful, diamond-shaped hishi mochi, often stacked in three layers, are more commonly displayed than eaten. These are sometimes included as part of the hina doll display sets.
The colors of hishi mochi carry specific meanings: pink symbolizes protection against disease and misfortune, white represents purity, and green (yomogi) signifies the warding off of evil. The arrangement of these three colors is said to evoke the springtime imagery of snow (white) giving way to sprouting greenery (green), and finally to blooming peach blossoms (pink).
Preparations and Display for Hinamatsuri
Modern Types of Hina Dolls
Hina dolls today are generally divided into two main styles: "Kanto-bina" (関東雛) and "Kyo-bina" (京雛).
Kanto-bina (Kanto-style Hina Dolls)
- The male doll (Obina) is on the left, and the female doll (Mebina) is on the right when viewed from the front.
- They typically have more defined facial features.
Kyo-bina (Kyoto-style Hina Dolls)
- The male doll is on the right, and the female doll is on the left when viewed from the front.
- They have elongated eyes and softer, more gentle facial expressions.
Kanto-bina follows the modern international standard of "right-side precedence," while Kyo-bina adheres to the traditional Japanese custom of "left-side precedence." Both styles are widely available.
How to Display Hina Dolls
Shinno Kazari (Emperor and Empress Display)
This display includes only a pair of dolls, the male (Obina) and female (Mebina), also known as "Dairi-bina." These dolls represent the Emperor and Empress residing in the imperial palace (Dairi). In modern times, due to space constraints, especially in urban apartments and condominiums, many households opt for this simpler style of display.
Seven-Tier Display
The most elaborate style, featuring hina dolls arranged on seven tiers. It is also referred to as "Jugo-nin Kazari" (Fifteen-Person Display). The following arrangement is the typical format:
Top tier: Emperor and Empress (Dairi-bina)
Second tier: Three court ladies (Sannin-kanjo)
Third tier: Five musicians (Gonin-bayashi)
Fourth tier: Two ministers (Zuijin)
Fifth tier: Three attendants (Shicho), along with decorative cherry blossoms (Sakon no Sakura) and mandarin oranges (Ukon no Tachibana)
Sixth and seventh tiers: Bridal trousseau items such as tiered boxes, oxcarts (Goshoguruma), palanquins (Okago), and other wedding accessories
Three-Tier Display
This display features the Emperor and Empress, three court ladies, and a selection of hina tools arranged over three tiers. It is more ornate than the simple Emperor and Empress display but more compact and practical than the seven-tier arrangement, making it a popular choice.
When to Set Up Hina Dolls
It is best to set up hina dolls between Risshun (around February 4th, the day after Setsubun) and mid-February. In some regions, it is believed to be auspicious to set up the dolls around Usui (Rain Water), one of the 24 solar terms, which falls on February 18th or 19th. However, avoid setting up the display on March 2nd, as "overnight decorations" are considered unlucky, similar to New Year's decorations.
Proper Placement of Hina Dolls
While there are no strict rules about placement or location, choose a spot that avoids direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme dryness to prevent damage to the dolls.
According to Feng Shui, displaying the dolls in the northeast or east direction is considered favorable.
When to Take Down Hina Dolls
The best time to take down the hina dolls is on the evening of March 3rd or the following day, March 4th. If that is not possible, aim to store them by the spring equinox (around March 21st).
The tradition of promptly removing hina dolls stems from their role as warding off misfortune. This belief later evolved into the superstition that delaying the removal of hina dolls could result in delayed marriage.
In any case, it is recommended to store the dolls early, on a dry and sunny day, to prevent damage.
Tips for Purchasing Hina Dolls
During the Showa era, it was customary for the maternal grandparents to gift hina dolls. However, modern practices vary. Choose a set that fits your room size and budget. Some families opt for character-themed displays or simplified versions. Discussing options within the family is essential.
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Hina Matsuri Foods and Their Meanings
What Are the Traditional Foods of Hina Matsuri?
Here are some must-have dishes and treats for Hina Matsuri:
Hina Arare (colorful rice crackers)
- Kusamochi (mugwort rice cakes)
- Hamaguri (clam soup)
- Chirashizushi (scattered sushi)
- Shirozake (sweet white sake)
Hina Arare originates from the custom of seaside outings on the old lunar calendar's March 3rd. People would carry Hishi Mochi (diamond-shaped rice cakes) broken into pieces and fried for easier transport.
Kusamochi is made with yomogi (mugwort) leaves and symbolizes warding off evil spirits. It has long been a staple food for Hina Matsuri.
Hamaguri soup reflects the seaside outings of old. The matching halves of a clam shell symbolize a harmonious marriage, making this dish a wish for marital happiness.
Chirashizushi does not have a clearly defined origin. However, its vibrant appearance and the use of auspicious ingredients like shrimp and lotus root have made it a festive meal since the Taisho era.
Shirozake traces its roots to momo no sake (peach liquor) from earlier times. It became associated with Hina Matsuri in the late Edo period.
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Fun Hina Matsuri Activities at Home
100-yen shops and general stores offer cute and affordable Hina Matsuri decorations, such as tapestries and garlands, that are easy to incorporate into your home.
Hina Matsuri Activities for Kids
Make Origami Hina Dolls
Crafting hina dolls with origami is a fun activity for all ages. There are plenty of traditional and modern designs to try. Create simple dolls with younger children and display them together.
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Read Hina Matsuri Storybooks
Many storybooks about Hina Matsuri and hina dolls are available. Local libraries in Japan often feature special collections for the season, allowing families to explore different books together.
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Take Commemorative Photos
More families in Japan are marking seasonal events like Hina Matsuri with studio photography or hiring professional photographers for home shoots. Affordable, easy-to-wear kimono-style outfits for kids make at-home photoshoots convenient and fun.
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Recommended Hinamatsuri Events Across Japan
One way to enjoy Hinamatsuri is by attending special events. Here, we introduce some unique and traditional Hinamatsuri celebrations held across Japan.
【Tokyo】Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: Miniature × Hyakudan Kaidan – A Small World in a Cultural Treasure
The "Hyakudan Kaidan," a wooden structure built in the early Showa period in 1935, is designated as a tangible cultural property by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Every year during early spring, this site hosts exhibitions related to Hinamatsuri. This year’s special exhibition showcases miniature art across seven rooms, including the Yuko Kawauchi Collection, which features exquisite hina dolls dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can immerse themselves in this playful and intricate miniature world.
Event location: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
- Address: 1-8-1 Shimomeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
- Dates: January 18 (Sat) – March 9 (Sun), 2025, 11:00–18:00 (last entry at 17:30)
- Admission: Adults ¥1,600, University/High School students ¥1,000, Middle/Elementary School students ¥800 (Free for preschool-aged children)
- Access: A 3-minute walk from JR Meguro Station
- Official Website: https://www.hotelgajoen-tokyo.com/
- Official Ticket Site: https://www.e-tix.jp/100event/small.html
【Shizuoka】Izu Inatori Hanging Hina Festival
The "Hanging Hina Decorations" are a tradition in which hina dolls are displayed alongside the doll platform during Hinamatsuri. This custom, passed down in Izu Inatori since the Edo period, is counted among Japan’s three great hanging decorations, along with "Sagemon" in Yanagawa, Kyushu, and "Kasafuku" in Sakata, Yamagata. During the festival, the displays are open across three main venues, including the Cultural Park Hina-no-Yakata. A highlight is the 118-step stone staircase at Susano Shrine, adorned with hina dolls – a breathtaking sight.
Event location: Cultural Park Hina-no-Yakata, Susano Shrine, and others
- Address: Cultural Park Hina-no-Yakata: 1729 Inatori, Higashiizu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka; Susano Shrine: Inatori, Higashiizu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka, and more
- Dates: January 20 (Mon) – March 31 (Mon), 2025, 9:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
- Susano Shrine Staircase Display: February 15 (Sat) – March 9 (Sun), 2025, 10:00–15:00 (canceled in case of rain)
- Admission: Varies by venue (Free–¥500)
- Access: A 10–20 minute walk from Izu Kyuko Line Inatori Onsen Station
- Official Website: https://inatorionsen.or.jp/hina/
【Aichi】24th Seto City Hina Doll Tour
The term "Setomono," which refers to ceramics and pottery, is said to have originated from items made in Seto. This city, known for its ceramics, hosts a vibrant Hina Doll Tour event where hina dolls are displayed throughout the town.
At the main venue, "Seto-Gura," a massive 4-meter-tall pyramid-shaped hina platform called "Hinamid" showcases around 800 ceramic and glass hina dolls. Visitors can also enjoy kimono rentals, various hina decorations around the city, handmade Seto ceramic doll workshops held every weekend, and special "Hina Lunch & Sweets" menus available during the event. Strolling the town in a kimono while enjoying these unique offerings is highly recommended.
Event location: Seto-Gura and others
- Address: Seto-Gura: 1-1 Kuranoshomachi, Seto City, Aichi, and more
- Dates: February 1 (Sat) – March 9 (Sun), 2025 [Hours vary by venue; Seto-Gura: 9:00–21:00]
- Admission: Varies by venue (Free–)
- Access: A short walk from Owari Seto Station on the Meitetsu Seto Line
- Official Website: http://www.seto-marutto.info/event/
【Kyoto】Nagashi-Bina
"Nagashi-Bina" is a traditional ritual where hina dolls made of washi paper are floated downriver to purify oneself of impurities. This practice, said to have started in the Heian period, prays for children’s healthy growth. At Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, the ritual is performed at the Mitarashi Pond on Hinamatsuri (March 3), and visitors are welcome to participate. Other regions, such as Mochigase in Tottori and Sumida River in Tokyo, also hold Nagashi-Bina ceremonies.
Event location: Kamo Mioya Shrine (Shimogamo Shrine)
- Address: 59 Shimo Gamo Izumigawacho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto
- Date: Every year on March 3; registration starts at 10:00, Nagashi-Bina ritual begins at 11:00
- Fee: Large doll ¥1,000, Small doll ¥500
- Access: A short walk from the "Shimogamo Shrine" bus stop
- Official Website: http://www.imamiya.jp/haruhanakyoko/event/nagashibina.htm
On March 3, celebrate Hinamatsuri joyfully, while giving thanks and prayers for the health and growth of girls.
References:
Nobuichi Tanaka and Noboru Miyata, eds., Sanseido Annual Event Encyclopedia Revised Edition, first edition, Sanseido, 2012, 458 pages
Naoki Shintani, "Japanese Traditions: Japan Calendar and Annual Events" first edition, Japan Bungeisha, 2007, 238 pages
Yasuko Miura, supervised by "Feel the Seasons and Enjoy the Days: Living Years" First Edition, Seibido Publishing, 2024, 191 pages
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