Over 4,000 Hina Dolls Gather in Heritage House

Feb 12, 2024 | News On Japan

YAMANASHI, Feb 12, 2024 (News On Japan) - In anticipation of next month's Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival), an ancient residence in Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, has become the exhibition site for approximately 4,000 ancient Hina dolls, open to the public since February 11th.

Visitors are in awe, noting, "It's incredible that each one is handcrafted."

The Kaneko Residence, designated as a national Important Cultural Property in 1953, showcases 4,000 items, including Hina dolls donated from inside and outside the prefecture and hanging decorations made by locals.

Among the collection are rare dolls that were popular during the mid-Edo period.

Last year, due to COVID-19, the exhibition was held with a limited number of attendees. This year, however, restrictions on the number of visitors have been lifted, allowing people to enjoy the early spirit of the Hinamatsuri.

The exhibition will run until April 18th, offering a deep dive into Japan's rich cultural tradition through the detailed craftsmanship of the Hina dolls, some of which date back centuries, capturing the essence of the Edo period's artistic and social practices.

Source: ANN

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