The Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel has made an installation of 10,000 magnificent hanging hina dolls. The annual exhibition will run through March 3: "Hinamatsuri," or "Girls' Day," dedicated to hina dolls.
The suspended hina jewelry, dating from the late Edo period (1603-1867), expresses wishes of health and prosperity for girls and successful marriages in the future.
The dolls on display at the hotel are handmade from old kimonos, traditional obi and other fabrics by 50 members of the Oharu-town Miyabi Association. The small dolls are shaped like various objects such as animals, food, babies, and each carries a special meaning. For example, an owl symbolizes happiness or a life without hardship.
In honor of the Year of the Dragon, there are also about 70 dragon soft toys on display in a special exhibit area.
The Oharu-town Miyabi Association is also planning to hold a charity bazaar at the Nagoya Convention Center on Feb. 15 during a meeting aimed at supporting tourism in Aichi Prefecture and nationwide. Funds raised at the bazaar will be used to help areas affected by the earthquake on the Noto Peninsula.
