In Japan, Hinamatsuri (Daughters Day) is an ancient tradition celebrated every year on March 3rd. This day is dedicated to honoring daughters, with families displaying ornamental dolls that represent the Heian period’s royal court. The dolls symbolize parents’ wishes for their daughters’ health, happiness, and future success.
Although Hinamatsuri has expanded to include sons in recent years, its origins are deeply rooted in celebrating girls and their importance in Japanese culture.
What Happens on Hinamatsuri?
The central feature of Hinamatsuri is the elaborate display of dolls on a red-carpeted platform. The display typically includes five to seven tiers:
- Top Tier: Emperor and Empress
- Second Tier: Court Ladies
- Third Tier: Male Court Entertainers
- Fourth Tier: Ministers and Table for Rice Cakes
- Fifth Tier: Samurai
Two additional tiers often feature items from the royal court. Boys are celebrated separately on May 5th, during Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day).
Hinamatsuri Celebrations Beyond Japan
Hinamatsuri has spread to countries like the U.S., U.K., and others with Japanese communities. Additionally, Daughter’s Day is observed in countries such as the U.S., U.K., India, Canada, and Australia on the fourth Sunday of September each year.
Traditional Foods of Hinamatsuri
Hinamatsuri includes traditional foods that reflect the celebration of daughters:
- Hina Arare: Rice Crackers
- Shirozake: Fermented White Rice Wine
- Hishimochi: Tri-Colored Rice Cakes
- Chirashi-zushi: Scattered Sushi
- Ushiojiru: Clam Soup
These foods, often pink, symbolize the feminine nature of the day.
Why is Hinamatsuri Celebrated?
Hinamatsuri has roots in an ancient Chinese tradition from at least the 8th century. Originally, dolls were ceremonial and represented the royal court. Today, the tradition continues to honor the special role of daughters in Japanese society. The celebration carries with it a superstition: girls who do not put their dolls away after Hinamatsuri are believed to marry late in life.
Hinamatsuri Traditions and History
The tradition of Hinamatsuri became nationally recognized in Japan in 1687. By the 20th century, many households with daughters had their own displays, continuing a custom that helps forge bonds between daughters and their parents. In 1927, the United States contributed 13,000 dolls to the celebration as a gesture of friendship.
Key Facts About Hinamatsuri
- Dolls from the 18th century are still in use today.
- The display tiers are created a few days before March 3rd.
- The festival is a wish for daughters to experience joyful marriages.
Conclusion
Hinamatsuri is a cherished Japanese tradition that celebrates daughters and their importance in society. For families, it’s a day to reflect on the special role daughters play, while enjoying food, customs, and memories.
