In Japan, the Peach Blossom Festival, or Hina Matsuri, is celebrated every March to honor girls. During this festival, traditional dolls, which represent the Emperor, Empress, female attendants, musicians, nobles, and servants, are displayed. This ancient practice dates back to the Heian period when dolls were believed to contain evil spirits. Following Japanese customs, the dolls are removed immediately after the festival, which is held in February. Leaving them beyond March 4 is considered unlucky as it can cause a delay in a daughter’s marriage. If you can’t afford a collection of Hina dolls, there are still many amazing collections you can visit around Aichi. Below are some of the best places where you can check them out.
Chuma no Ohinasan
Every year, the residents of the historic old town of Asuke collaborate to showcase a fantastic collection of hina dolls. Over 140 stores and private houses throughout the town display various dolls representing different generations from the Edo period to the present day. These dolls are crafted from various materials, including hand-painted clay, old kimono fabric, and other interesting materials. This event provides a unique opportunity to explore a diverse collection of dolls in a picturesque old-style Japanese town.
Asuke Sightseeing Information Center, Miyadaira-34-1 Asukechō, Toyota-shi (google map)
0565-62-1272 (Asuke Tourist Association)
Seto no Ohinameguri
The city of Seto is renowned for its ceramics. This makes it an ideal destination to witness beautifully crafted china dolls. Setugura Museum houses a fine collection of up to 1,000 glass and ceramic hina dolls at the heart of Seto’s historical ceramics production. The main display is a four-meter-high pyramid, affectionately called the “hinamid.” However, you will find other displays scattered throughout town.
1-1 Kurashocho, Seto (map)
0561-97-1190
Tokugawa Art Museum
The Tokugawa Art Museum boasts the finest collection in the city, comprising a stunning array of miniaturized accouterments handed down through generations of the ancient samurai family. The collection exhibits an exceptional level of craftsmanship and is an accurate representation of the family’s royal status. I suggest visiting Tokugawaen, a beautiful Japanese-style garden, while you are there. Read our article here to learn more about the museum and its surroundings.
1017 Tokugawacho, Higashi Ward (map)
052-935-6262
