Happy Girls’ Day, Japan!

The present Doodle honors Girls’ Day, otherwise called Doll’s Day or Hinamatsuri, a yearly festival saw to wish the healthy development and happiness of young ladies in Japan.

The present occasion, which is one of the country’s five sekku (seasonal celebrations), is traditionally set apart with the showcase of ornate hina dolls (ceramic dolls) wearing kimonos worn by the ancient Japanese imperial court of the Heian time (794-1185 A.D.).

Every family observes Girls’ Day in their own particular manner yet probably the most well-known customs incorporate the gifting of hina dolls to the most youthful young lady in the family.

Preparation of seasonal foods regularly supplement the celebrations, as chirashi-zushi (a sushi frequently beautified with pink rice) with hishi mochi (a precious stone formed rice cake) for dessert.

Games are another Girls’ Day custom, the most mainstream being kai-awase, a shell-coordinating game additionally passed down from the Heian period.

While Girls’ Day is generally held for families with little youngsters, present day observances celebrate ladies at each age.