The Hayashibara Museum of Art, whose operations are supported by Nagase Viita, will present the special exhibition “Princesses’ Hina Dolls and Utensils” from February 7 to March 29, 2026.
The Doll Festival (Hinamatsuri) traces its origins to the Chinese Shangsi Festival, also known as the Double Third Festival (Jōshi setsu). During the Heian period (794–1185), this ritual was introduced to Japan as Jōshi, a purification ceremony observed in early March (now March 3), in which people cleansed themselves by water to ward off misfortune and evil spirits. Over time, this practice evolved into the custom of displaying dolls to pray for children’s healthy growth and well-being.
This exhibition showcases a charming selection of small-scale hina dolls and utensils dating from the Edo to Meiji periods, passed down through the Ikeda family, the former lords of the Okayama Domain. In addition, the exhibition features related works that trace the origins of hina dolls, including folding screen paintings depicting the Jōshi purification ritual from The Tale of Genji, as well as amagatsu—protective dolls traditionally used to safeguard young children from misfortune.
For further details, please visit the Hayashibara Museum of Art website.
