HINAMATSURI / DOLLS’ FESTIVAL / GIRLS’ DAY

3rd March 2025

Japanese

Clay dolls representing the Emperor and Empress of Japan, reminiscent of the ancient Heian court, are displayed in the home; and offerings of peach blossom, rice-wine and rice-cakes are placed before them, along with miniature multi-coloured sweetmeats. The dolls are intended to carry away any illness afflicting or threatening the daughters of the house. The day is widely celebrated by praying for daughters to grow up to be healthy and dutiful.

Today in Japan some towns sell ‘nagashi-bina’ sets, paper doll pairs designed to be set afloat – already sitting in boats of wood or straw. There may even be a ceremony in which participants dress like the most elaborate hina dolls, and set them afloat.

The Japanese hold ceremonial burnings of many types of objects – needles and umbrellas, dolls and toys, papers, letters, and various other tokens of work accomplished during the year. In some places there is an annual burning of Daruma dolls, which represents the year’s activities. The doll burning ceremony involves some kind of ceremonial cremation, possibly in the hope of conceiving healthy children.

The family lies at the heart of Hinamatsuri, and the health of its daughters is emphasised at this time each year to help ensure the future of the family line. There is an equal emphasis on both the role of the daughter and the respect for and obedience she owes to her parents.