Hawaii Magazine
The story behind this ancient Japanese custom and a mochi recipe, too.
Mar 3, 2020
During Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868), families began displaying hina-ningyo or dolls, on the third day of the third month. Timed with the blooming of vibrant pink peach blossoms, displaying hina-ningyo was believed to ward off evil spirits. The custom became known as “Momo no Sekku (Peach Blossom Festival),” “Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival),” and “Girls’ Day,” slowly evolving into an annual celebration to honor the happiness and well-being of young girls. Nowadays, women of all ages are honored every year on March 3.
In the early 19
th century, Japanese contract laborers coming to work on sugar and pineapple plantations in the Islands brought Girls’ Day traditions with them, many of which local families of Japanese descent continue to practice today.