WHEN EAST MEETS WEST the Doll Festival

 by Hank F. Miller Jr.

   

   

The Doll Festival, which is also called The Girls' Festival or Peach Festival is observed on March 3.

This is a festival of young girls.

   

Dolls in ancient costumes are displayed on tiers of shelves covered with red cloth. These dolls represent the emperor and empress, their noble court ladies-in- waiting and ministers.

The Doll Festival dates from medieval times, but it was not until the 18th century that the custom of displaying dolls came into fashion.

The dolls are usually on display for about a week, but it is customary to put them away soon after March 3, because leaving them out for a long time is said to delay a daughter's marriage.

   

Warm Regards from Kitakyushu City, Japan

   

Hank F. Miller Jr.