◆Hinamatsuri Dolls displayed at the Embassy of Japan
“Hinamatsuri” (Girl’s Festival) is held on March 3rd. This is a day to pray for young girl’s growth and happiness. Many families in Japan with daughters display “Hina-ningyo (special dolls for Hinamatsuri)” and dedicate peach blossoms to them. They are usually arranged on a five or seven-tiered stand covered with a red carpet.
On the top are the Emperor and Empress. On the next step are three court ladies, followed by five musicians, two ministers, and three servants ending the bottom row in a five-tiered display. The practice of displaying these dolls on the 3rd day of March on the traditional Japanese calendar began during the Edo period (1603 - 1868). “Hina-ningyo” is now displayed at the Embassy of Japan until March 16, 2012.
©Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Palau
P.O. Box 6050 Koror, Republic of Palau 96940