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February 11, 2026 at 10:00 am
Event date:
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March 10, 2026 at 9:00 pm
Event end:
History
The tradition of Hinamatsuri (Girl’s Day) dates back to the Heian period (794–1185), when simple paper or straw dolls were used in purification rituals to carry away evil spirits and misfortune. These dolls were set adrift on rivers in a ceremony called hina-nagashi.
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Contact Jasumo Now →During the Edo period, the custom evolved into displaying elaborate multi-tiered doll sets representing the imperial court, symbolizing wishes for a girl’s health, happiness, and prosperous marriage. Kōnosu in Saitama Prefecture became one of Japan’s major hina-doll production centers, earning the nickname “Doll Town.”
Launched in 2005, the Bikkuri Hinamatsuri (“Surprise Hina-doll Festival”) transformed Kōnosu’s doll-making heritage into a spectacular city-wide celebration featuring Japan’s tallest pyramid displays of thousands of dolls.
Overview
Bikkuri Hinamatsuri 2026 will run from mid-February to early March in Kōnosu City, Saitama, with the jaw-dropping main exhibit at Elumi Kōnosu Shopping Mall. The festival centers on enormous 7–8 meter tall, 31-step pyramid displays holding over 2,000 intricately dressed hina dolls—recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest indoor hina-doll pyramid in Japan.
Satellite venues across the city host additional creative displays, workshops, performances, and markets. The entire event is free, family-friendly, and perfectly timed to celebrate Hinamatsuri (March 3).
Highlights
- Guinness-Record Pyramid Display: Over 2,000 dolls arranged on a towering 31-step pyramid inside Elumi Kōnosu atrium—truly breathtaking.
- Satellite Doll Exhibitions: Unique themed displays at local community centers, temples, and shops throughout Kōnosu.
- Hands-On Workshops: Make your own miniature hina dolls or try traditional doll-related crafts (weekends, small material fees may apply).
- Weekend Performances & Markets: Traditional music, dance, food stalls, and local doll-makers selling handmade sets.
- Free Shuttle Bus: On weekends (except March 2), hop between venues easily with complimentary shuttle service.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Guinness-Record Pyramid Display: Over 2,000 dolls arranged on a towering 31-step pyramid inside Elumi Kōnosu atrium—truly breathtaking.
- Satellite Doll Exhibitions: Unique themed displays at local community centers, temples, and shops throughout Kōnosu.
- Hands-On Workshops: Make your own miniature hina dolls or try traditional doll-related crafts (weekends, small material fees may apply).
- Weekend Performances & Markets: Traditional music, dance, food stalls, and local doll-makers selling handmade sets.
- Free Shuttle Bus: On weekends (except March 2), hop between venues easily with complimentary shuttle service.
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, Jasumo can help with custom cultural tours, private transportation to Kōnosu, doll workshop bookings, and more. Just contact us using the contact page.
Schedule
Mid-February to early March 2026 (typically around 3 weeks, ending just after March 3)
- Main Venue (Elumi Kōnosu): 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Free Shuttle Buses: Weekends only (except March 2)
Pricing
Completely free entry to all displays and most events. Some optional workshops may have small material fees.
Location
Main Venue: Elumi Kōnosu Shopping Mall 1-1-2 Honmachi, Kōnosu, Saitama Prefecture 365-0038, Japan Additional displays at various satellite locations throughout Kōnosu City
How to Get There
- By Train: 3-minute walk from JR Kōnosu Station (Takasaki Line / Shonan-Shinjuku Line).
- From Tokyo Station: ~45–55 min direct on the Takasaki/Utsunomiya Line.
- From Ikebukuro: ~40 min on Shonan-Shinjuku Line.
- By Car: Parking available at Elumi Kōnosu (fees apply); free parking at some satellite venues.
Accommodation Options
Kōnosu and nearby Kitamoto offer business hotels from ¥6,500–¥12,000 per night with easy station access. Kumagaya (10 min by train) has more choices including family rooms from ¥8,000–¥18,000.
For a traditional touch, several ryokan in nearby Kawagoe or Saitama City (30–40 min away) start around ¥15,000–¥35,000 with meals. Book early for March 3 weekend.
FAQs
When exactly does Bikkuri Hinamatsuri 2026 take place?
The festival typically runs for about three weeks from mid-February to early March, always including March 3 (Hinamatsuri). Exact dates are announced in late 2025.
Is the giant pyramid display really free to see?
Yes—100% free. The main Guinness-record pyramid is inside Elumi Kōnosu Shopping Mall atrium and requires no ticket.
How do I visit the different venues?
On weekends (except March 2), free shuttle buses connect the main sites. During the week, most venues are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from Kōnosu Station.
Is the festival crowded on March 3?
Yes, Girl’s Day itself is the busiest day. Visit on a weekday or early in the festival period for a more relaxed experience.
Can I reach Kōnosu easily from Tokyo?
Absolutely—direct trains from Tokyo Station or Ikebukuro take only 45–55 minutes, making it an easy half-day or full-day trip from the capital.
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