"Everyone's Hina Matsuri in Ayabe," where more than 1,000 Hina dolls are displayed in the temple grounds, is being held at Toko-in Temple in Kamienobu-cho, Ayabe City, Kyoto Prefecture. The dolls in gorgeous costumes entertain worshippers.
As fewer and fewer households display Hina dolls, this ninth event was started to preserve the custom. Dolls donated by worshippers and parishioners for memorial services are on display.
A 14-tiered platform with about 400 dolls and a large Hina doll with a date of 1843 are set up in the temple's kitchen. Children's kimonos are available for free rental, and parents and children enjoyed taking commemorative photos.
Deputy chief priest Matsui Masahiro calls on visitors to "celebrate the growth of children surrounded by many Hina dolls."
There is also a stamp rally where visitors who visit Toko-in Temple, Gunze Museum, and Ayabe Onsen will receive a commemorative gift.
The exhibition will be on until March 4th. 9:30am-4pm. Admission is 300 yen, free for junior high school students and younger.
