This weekend’s Japanese Doll and Cultural Festival at Simpson United Methodist Church in Arvada is a chance to experience a Japanese tradition while celebrating the cultural heritage of the church’s congregation.
“These are elegant dolls dressed in beautiful kimonos,” says Mary Nishiyama, one of the church members who helps organize the event inspired by Hinamatsuri, or Girls Day, the annual doll festival held in Japan in March.
“The female dolls symbolize grace and peace of mind,” Nishiyama says, “and the male dolls symbolize health and powerful will.”
In Japan, on Hinamatsuri, families display the hina ningyo, a traditional doll set with the emperor, empress and their court. The ornamental dolls are displayed on five- or seven-tiered platforms, depending on the number of dolls owned. These elaborate sets are often passed down through generations, displayed for a few weeks before the festival, then carefully packed away immediately afterward.
“It is considered bad luck to leave the dolls out after the festival,” says longtime church member Kazuko Dishong. “Centuries ago when the festival originated, many babies died, so the parents would wish for their children to be free from evil and bad luck.”
Former pastor Jonathan Fujita founded the Simpson church event, which is now in its 43rd year. Fujita came to the U.S. from Japan after World War II.
“He wanted to introduce Japanese culture to the community,” Dishong says. Sunday services at Simpson are still offered in English and Japanese.
Over the years, the doll festival has grown into a two-day event and offers a variety of exhibits. In addition to the Hinamatsuri displays, other dolls commemorate Tango no Sekku, or Children’s Day, celebrated May 5. Church members and outside participants also provide displays of ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, along with bonsai trees, calligraphy and origami exhibits.
In another part of the church, Taiko drummers take the stage along with kimono-clad dancers. Local groups also will demonstrate different styles of martial arts, including karate, judo and kendo, the Japanese form of fencing. Japanese tea ceremonies and a small selection of Japanese foods round out the entertainment.
“There are so many aspects of Japanese culture on display” in the church, Nishiyama says. “One visitor from Japan said he hadn’t seen it all under one roof, even in Japan.”
The Japanese Doll and Culture Festival
When: Today and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m
Where: Simpson United Methodist Church, 6001 Wolff St., Arvada.
Cost: The event is free and open to the public.
Info: Call 303-428-7963, or visit .
