The set of ornamental dolls on red carpet representing the Emperor, Empress, their attendants and musicians from the Heian period traditionally displayed on Hinamatsuri (March 3) are resplendent by themselves but they are best viewed against a stately background such as that of the Koma Old Town House, a beautifully restored historic house dating back to the Edo Period and the former residence of one of the richest families in Koma, Hidaka, Saitama. The Koma Old Town House hosts this exhibit yearly and it is a chance to view rare dolls that are over a hundred years old, but each year, there are slightly different dolls on loan, so if you happen to be in the area, it is worth checking out. Admission is free.
Getting there
From Koma Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line, follow the directions towards Kinchakuda (巾着田). The Koma Old Town House is opposite the street from 7-11. Parking spaces are available.
Sherilyn Siy @sherilyn.siy
For Sherilyn Siy, Asia is home. Born in Hong Kong, Sherilyn spent time in the Philippines, China, and now lives in Japan. She speaks English, Filipino, Chinese (or putonghua), and Hokkien, her family's local dialect. Running is one of her favorite ways to explore Japan. She proudly finished the 2...
