Susanoo Shrine Hina Dolls【February 15th ~ March 9th】｜Izu-Inatori

February 27, 2025

The Hina Doll Staircase Display at Susanoo Shrine – A Spring Tradition Woven with Elegance and Heritage

At Susanoo Shrine (素戔嗚神社), located in the Izu Inatori district of Higashi-Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture, a vibrant Hina Doll Staircase Display event is held every year to celebrate the arrival of spring. This festival, featuring stunning hina doll decorations deeply rooted in local tradition, has become a cherished springtime spectacle that captivates visitors and represents the town’s seasonal charm.

The Hina Doll Staircase Display is an evolved tradition inspired by Hinamatsuri (the Doll Festival), where hina dolls are arranged in tiers. In Izu Inatori, this celebration is particularly grand. At Susanoo Shrine, hundreds of hina dolls are elegantly displayed on tiered platforms within the shrine grounds, their graceful presence standing out against the vivid red felt covering. A unique highlight of this region is the Tsurushi-Bina (hanging hina decorations), a tradition dating back to the Edo period. These colorful fabric ornaments, carefully handcrafted, add both vibrancy and warmth to the display. Each piece carries heartfelt wishes for children's health and happiness, making the exhibition not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.

The Hina Doll Staircase Display at Susanoo Shrine is supported by the dedication of local residents. Every morning during the event, a team of seven to eight people helps set up the hina dolls, and they carefully put them away at 3 PM. Through these efforts, the community’s bonds are strengthened, and cultural traditions are preserved. This annual event is typically held from mid-February to early March, but dates may change due to weather or other circumstances. It is recommended to check for the latest updates before visiting. Additionally, weekends and public holidays tend to be crowded, so visiting on a weekday is recommended for a more relaxed and immersive experience.

The Hina Doll Staircase Display at Susanoo Shrine is a breathtaking event that symbolizes the arrival of spring in Izu Inatori. The vibrant hina dolls and exquisite Tsurushi-Bina decorations create a mesmerizing scene, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories. This is a perfect opportunity to experience the deep-rooted traditions and history of Izu Inatori. Why not take this chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of spring and the rich cultural heritage of the region?