The Origins and History of Hina Matsuri

Hina Matsuri, also known as the Doll Festival or “Peach Festival,” is a traditional Japanese celebration held on March 3rd. Its origins trace back to the Heian period (794-1185), when noble girls would play with paper dolls in a practice called “Hina Asobi.” Another custom involved placing dolls into a river to wash away bad luck, known as “Nagashi Bina.” During the Edo period (1603-1868), the festival evolved into what we see today, with families displaying Hina dolls to pray for the health and happiness of young girls.

How People Celebrate Hina Matsuri

Hina Matsuri is celebrated by displaying Hina dolls and enjoying special foods. Families with daughters set up beautiful doll displays, which range from elaborate seven-tiered arrangements to simple, compact styles in glass cases. Friends and relatives often gather to celebrate together.

Many regions also host special events, such as large-scale Hina doll exhibitions and traditional “Nagashi Bina” ceremonies, where people send dolls down rivers to wish for good fortune.

Unique Hina Matsuri Events Across Japan

Different regions in Japan have their own unique ways of celebrating Hina Matsuri. Here are some famous events:

• Nagashi Bina at Shimogamo Shrine (Kyoto)
  Held on March 3rd, this event revives the Heian-era custom of floating paper dolls down the river to carry away bad luck and misfortune.
  • https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/en/saiji/nagashibina
• Iwatsuki Doll Festival (Saitama)
  Iwatsuki, known as Japan’s “Doll Town,” hosts a grand festival featuring stunning doll displays and a parade.
  • https://visitsaitamacity.jp/events/7
• Sagemon Festival in Yanagawa (Fukuoka)
  Yanagawa is famous for its colorful hanging decorations called “Sagemon.” The festival includes the “Ohina-sama Water Parade,” where girls dressed in traditional kimono ride boats through the canals.
  • https://www.welcomekyushu.jp/attaka/hina/?mode=detail&id=8
• Tsurushi Bina in Inatori (Shizuoka)
  Inatori, a town in Izu, is known for its beautiful hanging Hina decorations made of colorful fabric, creating a stunning visual display.
  • https://inatorionsen.or.jp/hina/

Spectacular Large-Scale Hina Doll Exhibitions

Some places take Hina Matsuri to the next level by displaying hundreds or even thousands of dolls:

• Kōnosu Hina Doll Festival (Saitama)
  Kōnosu City, famous for doll-making, features an enormous pyramid-like doll display over 7 meters tall.
  • https://kounosubina.jp/
• Tomonoura Hina Matsuri (Hiroshima)
  This historic district showcases Hina dolls in traditional houses, temples, and shops, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.
  • https://japan-heritage.bunka.go.jp/ja/news/4714/
• Katsuura Big Hina Festival (Tokushima)
  With over 30,000 dolls displayed on a massive staircase, this event is one of the most impressive Hina Matsuri celebrations in Japan.
  • https://www.awanavi.jp/archives/topics/22442

Hina Matsuri Foods

Food plays an essential role in Hina Matsuri, with many special dishes served during the festival:

• Hina Arare – Colorful rice crackers that vary in taste (sweet or salty) depending on the region.
• Chirashi Sushi – A beautifully arranged sushi dish topped with shrimp, lotus root, egg, and vegetables.
• Clam Soup (Hamaguri no Osuimono) – Clams symbolize good marriage and happiness, making this soup a meaningful dish.
• Shirozake & Amazake – Adults drink shirozake (sweet rice wine), while children enjoy amazake (non-alcoholic fermented rice drink).

Hina Matsuri-Themed Events in Shops, Hotels, and Supermarkets

Hina Matsuri isn’t just celebrated at home—many department stores, supermarkets, and hotels organize special events and limited-time products:

• Hina Matsuri Sweets & Desserts
  Many stores sell exclusive sweets, such as cakes and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) decorated with cherry blossoms and peach flowers.
• Special Hina Matsuri Menu
  Restaurants and hotel cafes offer limited-time menus featuring Hina Matsuri-themed dishes like chirashi sushi and clam soup. Some places even serve elegant afternoon tea sets inspired by the festival.
• Workshops & Family Events
  Shopping malls and department stores often hold workshops where children can make their own Hina dolls or learn about traditional Japanese culture.

Experience Hina Matsuri in Japan

Hina Matsuri is one of Japan’s most beautiful traditions, celebrated in various unique ways across the country. If you ever visit Japan during this season, be sure to check out the special events, enjoy traditional foods, and experience the festive atmosphere firsthand!