Hina Matsuri, a traditional Japanese festival for ladies was celebrated in Samoa on Tuesday at the Embassy of Japan in Apia.
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A small group of ladies gathered there to exchange stories about this unique aspect of Japanese celebration and socialize.
A doll display called a Hina Ningyo (doll of the prince & princess) is the main feature of the celebration which represents the emperor, empress and members of their court.
A Hina Ningyo has been on display at the Embassy office for several weeks now.
Ambassador of Japan to Samoa, Tuimaugaoalii Kazumasa Shibuta, said this was the day that Japanese prayed for the happiness and good health of girls.
“I wanted to bring this celebration to Samoa not only for Japanese women living away from home but also to create an appreciation of this important festival among women in Samoa,” he said.
He explained that the dolls are dressed in traditional court wear from the Heian Era with the empress donning an impressive costume called juuni hitoe – a 12 layered ceremonial robe.
Depending on the number of pieces the dolls are arranged on five or seven tiered platforms with the emperor and empress positioned at the top.
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