In two days’ time Japan will mark Hinamatsuri, or “Dolls’ Festival”, where the health and happiness of girls will be commemorated. Also known as Dolls’ Day or Girls’ Day, Hinamatsuri is one of Japan’s five seasonal festivals and is celebrated annually on 3 March.
You can expect to see elaborate displays of ornamental dolls dressed in royal dress from the Heian period, placed on altars draped in distinct, red carpet. A full set of dolls represents The Emperor, Empress and their royal court. The most common tradition will see Japanese families displaying the dolls before a daughter’s first Hinamatsuri, and holding parties.
As for boys, their health, happiness and good fortune is celebrated on Children's Day in May during 'Golden Week', but more on that later...