Hiketa Hinamatsuri 2026

• February 21, 2026 at 10:00 am
  Event date:
• March 10, 2026 at 4:00 pm
  Event end:

History

The Hiketa Hinamatsuri began in 2003 as a community-led initiative to revitalize the historic port town of Hiketa in Higashikagawa City. Local residents decided to open their homes and display cherished family hina doll sets—many passed down for generations—to attract visitors and breathe new life into the quiet old streets.

Hiketa itself has roots as a prosperous Edo-period port town famous for sugar trade and traditional architecture, with many merchant houses and storehouses still preserved. The festival cleverly combines this heritage with the centuries-old Hinamatsuri tradition of praying for girls’ health and happiness.

Now in its third decade, the event has grown into one of Shikoku’s most charming doll festivals, drawing thousands who stroll the narrow lanes admiring both antique dolls and beautiful machiya townscapes.

Overview

Hiketa Hinamatsuri 2026 will run from late February to early March in the preserved old town of Hiketa, Kagawa Prefecture. Over 60 private homes, shops, and storehouses open their doors to display treasured hina doll sets—some over 100 years old—ranging from classic seven-tier imperial courts to rare regional styles.

The entire historic district becomes a living museum of traditional dolls against the backdrop of Edo and Meiji-era architecture. The relaxed, residential atmosphere lets visitors peek into real Japanese homes while supporting local revitalization efforts.

Highlights

• Over 60 Private Doll Displays: Families proudly show antique and heirloom hina sets, many in beautifully preserved machiya merchant houses.
• Historic Port Town Stroll: Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden buildings, storehouses, and stone walls from the Edo period.
• Rare & Regional Dolls: See unique Kagawa-style dolls alongside classic Kyoto and Tokyo sets rarely displayed publicly.
• Local Hospitality: Homeowners often greet visitors with smiles and stories about their dolls’ histories.
• Photo Spots Everywhere: Atmospheric streets filled with hina dolls in windows, entrances, and tatami rooms—perfect for photography.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

• Over 60 Private Doll Displays: Families proudly show antique and heirloom hina sets, many in beautifully preserved machiya merchant houses.
• Historic Port Town Stroll: Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden buildings, storehouses, and stone walls from the Edo period.
• Rare & Regional Dolls: See unique Kagawa-style dolls alongside classic Kyoto and Tokyo sets rarely displayed publicly.
• Local Hospitality: Homeowners often greet visitors with smiles and stories about their dolls’ histories.
• Photo Spots Everywhere: Atmospheric streets filled with hina dolls in windows, entrances, and tatami rooms—perfect for photography.

If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, Jasumo can help with custom Shikoku cultural tours, private transportation to Hiketa, local guides, and more. Just contact us using the contact page.

Schedule

Late February to early March 2026 (always includes March 3 – official Hinamatsuri)

• Typical Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (varies slightly by household)
• Weekends: Often extended hours and more homes open

Pricing

Completely free entry. No tickets required—just walk freely through the old town and visit any open displays.

Location

Hiketa Old Town (around Hiketa Station) Higashikagawa City, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan

How to Get There

• By Train: JR Kōtoku Line to Hiketa Station—the old town and displays begin immediately outside the station.
• From Takamatsu: ~50 min by JR limited express or ~70 min by local train.
• From Tokushima: ~40–50 min by JR train.
• By Car: Parking available at designated lots near the station (free or low cost).

Accommodation Options

Takamatsu city (50 min by train) offers modern hotels from ¥8,000–¥20,000 and traditional ryokan from ¥18,000–¥40,000. Many visitors stay here and make an easy day trip.

Higashikagawa has limited lodging, but nearby minshuku and small inns start around ¥9,000–¥15,000 with home-cooked meals. Book early for March 3 weekend when the festival peaks.

FAQs

When exactly does Hiketa Hinamatsuri 2026 take place?

The festival runs late February to early March, always including March 3 (national Hinamatsuri). Exact dates are announced in January—typically a 7–10 day period.

Is it really free to see all the doll displays?

Yes—100% free. Residents open their private homes voluntarily; polite visitors are welcomed with no charge.

Do I need a reservation or ticket?

No reservation needed. Simply arrive at Hiketa Station and follow the signs or free festival map (available at the station).

Is the old town walkable with children or elderly?

Yes—the area is compact and mostly flat. Most displays are on ground level, though some homes have steps.

Can I combine this with other Kagawa sights?

Absolutely—pair it with Sanuki udon experiences, Kotohira-gu Shrine (Kompirasan), or the scenic Seto Inland Sea islands for a perfect Shikoku day trip.

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