February 4th to February 19th
Risshun (the beginning of spring) ~ Usui (rainwater)

It is generally considered that they are decorated from the beginning of Spring through to around the time of Usui, according to the 24 solar terms.

"Rainwater" refers to the time when falling snow turns to rain and begins to melt. The snow that has accumulated on the mountains melts into rivers and irrigates the fields.

It is said that it is good to display them on Setsubun, February 3rd (Setsubun is the day to exorcise demons), on auspicious days after the beginning of spring the next day, or on days of good fortune such as "Taian". As can be seen from the history of Hinamatsuri, Hina dolls are said to be an "event related to water", and originated from the fact that dolls that transferred bad luck were cast into water. The "time of Usui" when water is abundant is a good time for Hina dolls, and it was believed that displaying them at that time would bring about good relationships.

We also receive questions such as, "Is it okay to decorate from January?"
Some people consider it unlucky because it falls in the third month of the year.

◆What is "Sangatsukake"?◆

Some people believe that displaying Hina dolls for three months is bad luck, saying that "you will suffer hardships from start to finish." The reason for this is said to be a pun on the wordplay. The 49th day and the third month are also considered bad luck, saying that "you will suffer hardships from start to finish." These are also avoided not only for Buddhist ceremonies, but also for weddings, funerals, and other ceremonial occasions.

However, as mentioned at the beginning, it is a play on words and is thought to have been passed down with the meaning of "don't be too late." There are also areas where the festival is celebrated according to the old calendar, so there is no need to worry about "santsukikake."