In Japan, March 3 is “Hinamatsuri” which is festival for girls. We display Hina dolls in homes with girls to celebrate. It is said that the reason for decorating hina dolls is to have take the girl’s misfortune instead.
〇What foods for Hinamatsuri
- Hinaarare
In Kanto area (around Tokyo), people have sweet pongashi (softer and lighter in texture than senbei).In Kansai area, salty flavored okaki(a kind of rice cracker) is eaten. There are various type depending on the region.
2.Hishimochi
A rhombus-shaped rice cake. The rhombus shape has long been a symbol of growth and prosperity. Hishimochi’s peach color represents “protection from evil”, white represents “purity” and green represents “healthy”.
3.Amazake
In the past, people drank sake made from rice to protect themselves from illness and calamity. On the Hinamatsuri, celebrated for children with amazake which does not contain alcohol, is now drunk.
4.Clam soup
Clam shells are associated with married couples who will be together for the rest of their lives, as only a pair of calm shells fit together perfectly. Clams in season from February to April, which is in line with the time of the HInamatsuri.
5.Chirashizushi
Chirashizushi is eaten on Hinamatsuri because of its many auspicious ingredients and gorgeous appearance. The ingredients in chirashizushi also have meaning.
Shrimp… You live long enough to bend at the waist
Lentils …To be able to see far into the world
Brocade egg…the yolk and white represents gold,silver
In Fukuoka, HInamatsuri is held in various locations to display hina dolls that are handed down. This is great chance to see hina dolls that you would never see in ordinary. Why don’t you visit the festival when you come to Fukuoka?
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