Japan's culture is one of the most unique in the world. While it is known for anime, sushi vending machines, and fast-paced public transport system, there are little-known aspects in Japanese culture that are absolutely worth exploring.
One of those aspects is a handmade wooden doll called the Kokeshi doll. Japan's deep affection with the doll dates back to the 1800s. This special art originated near the Tōhoku region of northeastern Japan, in the hot spring mountainous villages.
By the end of the Edo period (1603-1868 CE), the first examples of the Kokeshi doll began to emerge. Craftsmen would make these dolls for children, using the wood that was left over from making plates and bowls. It's a seasoned wood derived from the dark cherry tree or the lighter mizuki tree.
The Kokeshi doll is comprised of an enlarged head attached to a long, limbless body. Over the years, these dolls would eventually evolve to include facial features and vividly-colored kimonos.
At least a dozen styles of the Kokeshi doll are known, including Hijiori, Kijiyama, Nakanosawa, Nanbu, Naruko, Sakunami, Togatta, Tsuchiyu, Tsugaru, Yajiro, Yamagata and Zao. Each style is a traditional is named after a place and has its own design and motif.
One of the best-known styles is the Naruko doll. Typically, it is painted with a single eyelid and subtle, red lips. The hair is normally painted in bunches and has a concave torso painted with chrysanthemums.
On the other hand, one of the rarest styles of the Kokeshi doll is the Hijiori doll. These dolls are happy-looking and usually have wide, moon-shaped eyes. Also, their bodies are decorated with chrysanthemums, but they have more of a "spray-paint" formation.
If you are interested in finding the traditional Kokeshi dolls, the world's largest collection of the dolls is located in Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Museum at the foot of Mt. Zao in the Miyagi prefecture in Japan.
You can watch a video here on how a Kokeshi doll is made right before your eyes.
Contemporary Kokeshi dolls have been inspired by the original design. They can be found online, especially on the Etsy. But be sure they are from a reputable seller, especially if buying an authentic, vintage Kokeshi doll.
With their immense popularity, Kokeshi dolls have been used for a wide variety of purposes, such as children's toys, collector's pieces, or simply a sign of good luck.
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