The document discusses the origins and customs of Hinamatsuri, or Girl's Day, a Japanese holiday celebrated during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). During this time, Chinese influences were strong and the tradition of Hinamatsuri began. Customs include floating dolls in rivers to carry away bad spirits and ensure children's safety, drinking a sweet, low-alcohol rice beverage called amazake which was believed to be nutritious, and eating colorful hinamatsuri arare rice crackers made with soy sauce. These rice crackers were brought to the United States by Japanese plantation workers.