OVERVIEW

Every year on March 3rd, Japanese people decorate their homes with traditional dolls to celebrate Girl's Day, also known as "Hinamatsuri" (the Dolls Festival) or "Momo-no-Sekku" (Peach Festival). Peaches symbolise perpetual youth and longevity, and in Nagasaki during this season you can find peach-shaped versions of the popular Nagasaki cake, 'Castella'. Residents and shops in Shimabara City mark the festival by setting out their treasured ornaments dressed in Heian-court outfits. So, come and get a glimpse of them while you stroll around the castle town of Shimbara, also known for its delicious food, hot springs and an abundance of fascinating historical sites.