Hinamatsuri in Kyoto: A Spring Festival of Dolls, Wishes and Timeless Traditions

Hinamatsuri Festival at Hokyo-ji Temple

Celebrating Girls’ Day in Kyoto on 3 March 2026

Each year on 3 March, Japan celebrates Hinamatsuri, also known as Girls’ Day, a cherished festival dedicated to the health, happiness and future of young girls. Rooted in centuries-old beliefs that seasonal transitions could invite misfortune, the festival developed as a ritual to ward off evil spirits and pray for wellbeing and prosperity.

In Kyoto, the ancient capital where tradition lives on in everyday life, Hinamatsuri is marked by elegant rituals, beautifully crafted dolls and seasonal foods that welcome the arrival of spring.

The Beauty and Symbolism of Hina Dolls

From early February until the day of the festival, families display hina-ningyō dolls on tiered platforms draped in red cloth. These ornate dolls represent the imperial court of the Heian period and are believed to absorb misfortune on behalf of children.

Kyoto is renowned for producing exquisite dolls known as kyoto-bina, created by skilled artisans who specialise in crafting individual elements such as the head, hair and garments. These heirloom pieces are often passed down through generations and displayed at temples and shrines during Hinamatsuri.

In Kyoto tradition, the male doll is placed on the right and the female doll on the left, reflecting Heian-era court customs where the emperor sat to the right and the empress to the left.

Nagashi-bina: Floating Away Misfortune

Hinamatsuri Festival

One of Kyoto’s most moving Hinamatsuri rituals takes place at Shimogamo Shrine, where the nagashi-bina ceremony is held annually on 3 March. Small dolls are placed into straw boats and floated down the Mitarashi River, symbolically carrying away illness and misfortune while prayers are offered for children’s health.

On the same day, Kamigamo Shrine hosts the Peach Blossom Festival, where peach blossoms, magnolia flowers and kusa mochi are offered in prayers for family safety and wellbeing. Another doll-floating ritual follows at the nearby river, reinforcing the festival’s themes of purification and protection.

Traditional Sweets of the Season

Hinamatsuri is also celebrated through seasonal confections that reflect spring’s colours and symbolism.

Hishimochi, a diamond-shaped layered mochi in pink, white and green, represents health, purity and growth. Hina arare, colourful sweet rice crackers, are a popular festive treat.

Kyoto’s regional specialty hichigiri is particularly associated with the festival. Its name means “torn off,” referring to its uneven shape. The sweet combines konashi dough or uirō cake with sweet bean paste, creating a delicate flavour enjoyed during Girls’ Day celebrations.

Temples Honouring the Doll Festival Tradition

Several Kyoto temples host special exhibitions and ceremonies linked to Hinamatsuri.

• Hōkyō-ji Temple – The Doll Temple

Often called the Doll Temple, this Buddhist convent houses an extensive collection of high-quality dolls. Each spring, hina-ningyō dolls are displayed, and a Doll Festival featuring dance performances is held on 1 March.

• Sanjūsangen-dō

On 3 March, this historic temple holds the Shuntōe Buddhist service and opens to visitors free of charge. Flower offering ceremonies, ikebana displays and cultural performances take place throughout the day as part of Hinamatsuri celebrations.

A Festival Welcoming Spring and New Beginnings

Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine

Hinamatsuri in Kyoto is more than a family celebration; it is a reflection of seasonal renewal, cultural artistry and spiritual wellbeing. From floating rituals and historic temples to heirloom dolls and delicate sweets, the festival offers visitors a rare glimpse into traditions that continue to shape Japanese life.

Experiencing Hinamatsuri provides an intimate encounter with Kyoto’s living heritage and a meaningful way to welcome spring in Japan.

Visitor Information

Event Date: 3 March 2026
Primary Locations: Shrines, temples and homes across Kyoto
Highlights: Doll displays, floating rituals, temple ceremonies, seasonal sweets

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