Hinamatsuri or Girl's Day in Japan: Know Date, History and Significance of the Traditional Japanese Festival, Also Known As Doll Festival
Families with daughters typically display these dolls in their homes, arranging them on multiple tiers covered with red fabric. The dolls are adorned in traditional court attire, and each tier represents a different level of the court. The entire set of dolls and accessories is called the hinakazari.
The Japan Doll Festival, also popularly known as Hinamatsuri or Girls' Day in Japan, is a traditional celebration observed annually on March 3. This Japanese festival is dedicated to celebrating and wishing for the health, happiness, and prosperity of young girls in Japan. The special day is marked by the display of intricate and ornate doll sets called ‘Hina-ningyo’ on a tiered platform covered with red carpeting. This means, platforms covered with a red carpet–material are used to display a set of ornamental dolls representing the Emperor, Empress, attendants, and musicians in traditional court dress of the Heian period. In this article, let’s know more about Hinamatsuri 2024 date, the history and significance of the traditional Japanese festival. International Women's Day 2024 Date & Theme: Know All About the Day That Celebrates the Achievements of Women Around the Globe.
Hinamatsuri History
Hinamatsuri is one of the five seasonal festivals that are held on auspicious dates of the Chinese calendar. In ancient China, the 3rd day of the 3rd month was viewed as auspicious. After the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, these days were fixed on March 3. The festival was traditionally known as the Peach Festival as peach trees typically began to flower around this time. The Hina-ningyo dolls represent the Emperor, Empress, attendants, musicians, and other members of the Imperial Court from the Heian period (794-1185).
Families with daughters typically display these dolls in their homes, arranging them on multiple tiers covered with red fabric. The dolls are adorned in traditional court attire, and each tier represents a different level of the court. The entire set of dolls and accessories is called the hinakazari.
Hinamatsuri Significance
The dolls in the Doll Festival display symbolise the wishes of parents for their daughter’s future prosperity. The number of tiers and dolls a family may depend on their budget. Depending on the family’s wealth, a full set of dolls would include the ministers of the left and right and several other messengers and servants.
The Doll's Festival holds cultural and historical significance in Japan, symbolising familial wishes for the happiness and success of daughters. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for families to come together, celebrate, and appreciate Japanese traditions and customs passed down through generations. We wish you a happy Hinamatsuri!
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 18, 2024 07:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).