Hinamatsuri symbolizes something greater for some

CAPTION: Hinamatsuri, a widely celebrated holiday in Japanese culture, was on March 3. 

By Grace Kishiyama,

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

Hinamatsuri (also known as Girls Day) was on March 3. The holiday is celebrated widely in Japan. Hinamatsuri first came to be during the Heian era, when young girls were often plagued by disease and illness. The holiday has roots dating back 1,000 years ago wishing for the good health of young girls.

Dolls are typically put out on display in homes starting on Feb. 3 and are left out until April 3. Hinamatsuri dolls are ornamental dolls that are typically family heirlooms passed down from generation to generation. 

Davis High Japanese teacher Naoko McHale enjoyed some of her own Hinamatsuri traditions and festivities this year. 

“I made sushi … and put out my small set of dolls,” McHale said.

Her dolls were bought by her mom. Furthermore, Hinamatsuri has come to symbolize something greater for McHale.

“(The holiday creates) a special connection with my daughters and my mom,” she said.

Typically, DHS senior Kako Hayashi also takes part in Hinamatsuri traditions as well.

“Usually, my family creates a display of our Hina dolls in our house and eats chirashizushi and sakura mochi,” Hayashi said.

However, there is a particular part of the holiday that she looks forward to each year.

“(My favorite part of Hinamatsuri is) eating hina arare (that) my grandfather sends us each year,” Hayashi said. 

Because she was traveling this year, Hayashi was not able to take part in her typical annual Hinamatsuri traditions.

In addition to promoting good health in girls, Hinamatsuri also serves as a symbol of spring.