Doll Festival is a Japanese traditional celebration held on March 3rd- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
Hinamatsuri, also known as the Doll Festival, is a traditional Japanese event held annually on March 3rd, celebrated as "Momo no Sekku" (Peach Festival). On this day, people wish for the healthy growth and happiness of girls by displaying Hina dolls and enjoying special foods as part of this cultural event.
At the lobby of Ichinomiya Country Club, the Hina dolls owned by my close friend Yoko Kawasaki https://www.ichinomiya.co.jp/
Origins and Traditions:
Ancient Chinese roots The Peach Festival originates from the ancient Chinese "Shangsi (Joshi) Festival". Shangsi falls in early March, a time when people believed that evil spirits were prone to enter. The practice of purification at the water's edge began in order to avert bad fortune.
The custom of "Nagashibina" (floating dolls) This practice was introduced to Japan, where it merged with the belief in a substitute spirit, resulting in the custom of using dolls to take on people’s misfortune and floating them down the river. This is the origin of "Nagashibina".
Heian period During the Heian period (794-1185), the doll-playing game called "Hiina-asobi" became popular among nobles, and the "Hiina" dolls combined with the "Hitogata" (dolls) to create the Hina dolls. Instead of floating away, the dolls began to be displayed in homes, evolving into the modern-day Peach Festival.
The types of Hina dolls displayed for the Peach Festival (Momo no Sekku):
Standing Hina Display (Tachi-bina Kazari): Considered the original form of Hina dolls, featuring simple standing dolls. It consists of a gold folding screen and a display stand, allowing for a compact arrangement.
Emperor and Empress Display (Shinno Kazari): The most common type of Hina doll set, also called Dairi-bina. It consists of two dolls representing the emperor and empress, known for their elaborate costumes.
Two-Tier Display: The upper tier features the emperor and empress dolls with three court ladies, while the lower tier displays the five musicians and cherry blossom or plum decorations. This set typically includes 5 to 10 dolls, offering a lively display with fewer tiers.
Three-Tier Display: A more luxurious tiered display featuring the emperor and empress dolls, three court ladies, five musicians, and various Hina accessories.
Five-Tier Display: A comprehensive set including the emperor and empress dolls, three court ladies, musicians (five or seven), attendants, and servants, totaling 15 to 17 dolls. It comes complete with all the traditional accessories.
Seven-Tier Display: The most elaborate Hina display, showcasing a full set of 15 dolls.
Hanging Ornaments (Tsurushi-bina): A decorative style separate from the traditional doll display, featuring various ornaments hung for enjoyment.
Emperor and Empress Display (Shinno Kazari)- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
Traditional Japanese Foods for Doll's Festival
Chirashi sushi is one of the most popular traditional dishes enjoyed during Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day or Doll Festival) in Japan. This traditional Japanese cuisine is known for its vibrant appearance and auspicious ingredients.The charm of chirashi sushi lies in its visual appeal, with colorful ingredients beautifully scattered over vinegared rice. However, beyond its aesthetic appeal, each ingredient carries a deep symbolic meaning.
For example, shrimp symbolizes longevity due to its curved back, while lotus root, with its holes, represents a clear vision of the future. The yellow color of shredded egg (kinshi tamago) is said to represent wealth, expressing hope for a prosperous future.In this way, chirashi sushi, combining visual beauty and auspicious meanings, has become an indispensable dish for Hinamatsuri and various other celebratory occasions. Enjoyed by families and relatives gathered on special days, chirashi sushi exemplifies the excellence of Japanese food culture.
Home made Chirashi sushi- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
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