What Are Hina Dolls?

Hina Doll Festival 2006 Hina Doll Festival 2006

On March 3 Japan celebrates Hinamatsuri, or girls' festival, where we wish healthy growth and future happiness to all girls. Hinamatsuri began more than 1000 years ago, in the Heian period. On Miyajima, Hinamatsuri is still celebrated according to the lunar calendar. That's why the Hina Doll Festival is not on March 3.

Hina dolls are arranged on a five- or seven-tiered stand. At the top are the Emperor and Empress, followed by three court ladies (sannin-kanjo), five musicians (gonin-bayashi), two ministers (udaijin and sadaijin), and three servants. There are also small pieces of furniture, and small dishes, amongst other things.


At the Miyajima History and Folklore Museum, you will find out more about the following...

Hina Doll Festival 2006 Hina Doll Festival 2006