The Japanese Doll Festival (Hinamatsuri), or Girls' Day, is a festival celebrated by families who have girls, wishing their daughters good health and growth.

Traditionally, beautiful dolls representing the emperor, empress, attendants, and musicians were handcrafted especially for the occasion. The custom of displaying dolls began during the Heian period, when people believed the dolls possessed the power to contain bad spirits.

Special guest Hina doll docent (Sunday only):  Isako Masanori Wasano, Director of the Northern California Shibu Mataro Miyabi Kai.

Come bring your children to this special Girl's Day celebration at JAMsj. There will be traditional Hina Matsuri dolls, as well as more unique doll exhibits, and wonderful craft projects for both boys and girls.

Hina Matsuri dolls will be on display on Saturday and Sunday.

Cost: Free with admission to the museum (non-members, $5; students and seniors over age 65, $3; JAMsj members and children under 12, free). An additional materials fee may apply.

For more information, please email PublicPrograms@JAMsj.org or call the JAMsj office at (408) 294-31389.