Hinamatsuri, or Doll's Festival,
is celebrated every March 3rd as an occasion to pray for
the health and happiness of girls. Many families with
daughters decorate rooms in their houses with doll displays,
in some cases setting up a month before the festival.
The roots of this tradition can be traced to ancient times
in China. Even then, it was believed that bad luck, illness
and other potential calamities could be transferred from
a family's daughters to dolls.
Chirashi-zushi (rice seasoned with vinegar and toppings)
The colorful toppings make this dish ideal for festive
occasions-especially for large numbers of guests.
