Concept 1
Behold the Artistry
The Entire Town Becomes a Doll Museum!
Iwatsuki is celebrated as Japan’s “City of Dolls.” During the festival, the entire town transforms into a vibrant, open-air gallery. In addition to traditional Hina dolls, you will find “Tsurushi-kazari”—charming, hand-stitched hanging ornaments that fill the air with color.
These decorations are displayed in historic locations, including long-established Japanese restaurants and traditional sake breweries. Some of these venues are designated as Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Properties. Experience the unique harmony between historic architecture and exquisite doll craftsmanship.
Key Exhibition Venues
【Doll Exhibition: From Edo to Showa Eras】
Togoku Taisho-kan
What to See: As the title suggests, this venue showcases a precious collection of dolls spanning from the Edo period to the Showa era. Don’t miss the rare dolls inspired by Japanese folklore and fairy tales!
【Tsurushi-kazari &
Historic Establishments】
Suzuki Brewery Gallery
A sake brewery founded in 1871. Explore historic brewing tools and documents while feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Perfect for picking up premium sake as a souvenir!
【The Temple of theDoll Master】
Mirokumitsuji Temple
A serene temple deeply connected to the local doll-making culture.
【Tsurushi-Hina & Heritage Shops Collaboration】
Hoteiya
A historic Japanese restaurant with roots dating back to the Edo period. Once a host for samurai, it now displays a breathtaking number of Hina and Tsurushi dolls. Enjoy their special “Hina-matsuri Zen” lunch.
【Tsurushi-Hina & Heritage Shops Collaboration】
Funamata
one of Iwatsuki’s most prestigious traditional restaurants, boasts a legacy dating back centuries. It famously appears in historical records from April 1843, documenting the grand daimyo procession of the 12th Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyoshi, on his pilgrimage to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. It is also the birthplace of the legendary Shochiku film actress, Kuniko Miyake.
【Tsurushi-Hina & Heritage Shops Collaboration】
Iwasaki
A popular cafe in a renovated traditional house (kominka). This “hidden gem” of Iwatsuki becomes even more magical with vibrant hanging doll displays.
【Premium Hina Doll Showcase】
Hisazu Shrine
Visit for a special exhibition and feel the spiritual energy of this ancient site known for matchmaking and good fortune.
【Historical Photos & Sacred Treasures】
Yakumo Shrine
Dedicated to the deity of fire protection. View the “Four Guardian Deities” (Shijin) and a photo exhibition showcasing the history of Iwatsuki.
Iwatsuki Ningyo Museum
This is the first public doll museum in Japan, opened on February 22, 2020. “Yoroken Cafe,” located on the same site, is also recommended for its menu featuring European vegetables.
Iwatsuki-han Senkyokan
(Iwatsuki Clan School)
Founded in 1799 by the Confucian scholar Nanka Kodama, a retainer of the Iwatsuki domain, this building started as a private school. Today, it stands as the only surviving “han-ko” (domain school) in Saitama Prefecture.
【Grand Hinadan Display】
Atago Shrine
Grand Hinadan Display
The Staircase Doll Display at the University of Human Arts and Sciences
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受付時間 10:00-16:00