March 3 marks Hinamatsuri (ひな祭り) in Japan, also known as Girls’ Day or the Doll Festival. This special occasion is a time to wish for the health, happiness, and prosperity of young girls. Families across Japan celebrate by displaying hina (雛) dolls, enjoying seasonal dishes, and welcoming the early signs of spring.
One of the most iconic elements of Hinamatsuri is the hina ningyō (雛人形), a set of elaborately dressed dolls arranged on tiered platforms. A full display typically has five tiers, with the Emperor and Empress seated at the top. Mine, shown in the photo, has just the two—perfect for me to bring from Japan. These originally belonged to my grandma, and I inherited them after (enthusiastically) expressing how much I adore them, lol.
Of course, Hinamatsuri celebrations wouldn’t be complete without a beautifully arranged table featuring seasonal foods. One of the classics is chirashi-sushi (ちらし寿司), a vibrant "scattered" sushi bowl topped with seafood, egg, and vegetables.
The lacquered wooden bowls in the photo are our newest addition. Handcrafted in Fukui, they offer the luxurious feel of lacquer with a uniquely soft, gently rounded texture that’s simply irresistible. And as a bonus, they’re actually dishwasher safe...!!! Thanks to a durable lacquer finish developed in collaboration with Fukui University, these bowls are perfect for both lacquerware beginners and everyday use.
Whether you’re celebrating Hinamatsuri or simply embracing the change of seasons, it’s a wonderful time to gather around the table with meaningful pieces that bring warmth and joy to everyday moments. What are your favorite ways to welcome early spring?