When most people think of Japan, they think of sushi, martial arts, and anime. But there is so much more to this amazing country than meets the eye. For centuries, Japan has been home to a unique and intricate culture unlike any other in the world. And one of the most iconic symbols of Japanese culture is Kokeshi dolls. While they may look like simple toys, these tiny wooden dolls have a long and exciting history. They come in different shapes and sizes, each telling its own story. So, if you’re interested in learning more about these charming dolls, keep reading! This article will take a closer look at the origins of kokeshi dolls and their distinct styles.
What are Kokeshi Dolls?
Kokeshi are handmade wooden dolls that have been around for centuries. They are commonly made from the wood of cherry, Mizuki, and Japanese maple trees after seasoning for years. Kokeshi dolls (or Dento Kokeshi) are created by skilled artisans who have apprenticed with a master kokeshi maker. Every part of the making process is done by hand, from carving the body with chisel-like tools to painting and finishing the figure.
The doll consists of a thick, cylindrical body with no arms or legs and a spherical head. They are available in various sizes, ranging from 5 to 10 inches tall. Paintings on them vary by region; some feature more simplistic designs, while others are more elaborate.
There are many different interpretations of the word “kokeshi (こけし).” The most common explanation is that it is a combination of the words “ko (こ),” meaning “small,” and “keshi (けし),” meaning “poppy” or “doll.” Together, they would give the literal meaning of “small poppy doll.” Some people claim that the word “ko (こ)” could also mean “wooden.” Thus, another translation of the term “kokeshi” would be “wooden doll.”
Origins and History of Kokeshi Dolls
Kokeshi dolls have a long history that dates back to the end of the Edo period (1603-1868). They originated in the Tohoku region and spread across onsen towns in six prefectures. At that time, woodworkers (known as Kijishi) made these dolls out of wood scraps as toys for children.
Eventually, the dolls gained popularity among nearby farmers who used to visit the hot springs to relax. From simple wooden dolls, they became more ornate with red, black, and sometimes yellow floral designs. They even evolved into various sizes and forms, with each town having a distinctive style.
Even though kokeshi dolls are no longer used as toys, they remain a beloved part of Japanese folk art. People often buy them as souvenirs to remember their trip to Japan. You can find numerous souvenir items featuring kokeshi designs, from T-shirts and keychains to iPhone cases and umbrellas.
The 12 Types of Traditional Kokeshi Dolls
The simple shapes and designs of kokeshi make them stand out from other Japanese dolls. Here are twelve of the most well-known traditional styles.
1. Naruko Style (鳴子系) – Miyagi
Kokeshi dolls from Naruko Onsen in Osaki have slightly cinched trunks. They are often adorned with colorful designs of chrysanthemums or maple leaves. The head is attached to the body by a small peg that makes an ear-piercing sound when turned. The red accents on top of their bobbed hair help show off their unique facial features.
2. Togatta Style (遠刈田系) – Miyagi
The town of Togatta is home to a unique type of kokeshi doll. These dolls have heads that are quite bigger than their bodies and are crowned with a radiating red design. The doll’s face has a subtle smile enhanced by crescent-shaped eyes, while the body is brightly adorned with plum or cherry flowers.
3. Yajiro Style (弥治郎系) – Miyagi
Again from Miyagi Prefecture, kokeshi dolls in the city of Shiroishi have large heads with beret-like carvings on the top. The doll’s body is slightly concave with distinctive necklines and a colorful kimono design.
4. Sakunami Style (作並系) – Miyagi
This slim variant of kokeshi dolls was originally designed to be easily held by children as a toy. They come with decorated trunks at the center, often featuring chrysanthemum flowers with long petals. The only place you can find these dolls today is at the Hiraga Kokeshi Shop in Sakunami.
5. Hijiori Style (肘折系) – Yamagata
While this doll may resemble a Togatta-style kokeshi, its crescent-shaped eyes give it a distinct peaceful face. The doll’s body is typically yellow, with squared-off shoulders and chrysanthemum motifs. This variety comes from Hijiori onsen, where larger versions have heads filled with beans, giving them a rattling sound.
6. Zao Takayu Style (蔵王高湯系) – Yamagata
Based on the Togatta style, this doll originated in Zao Onsen. It then spread to other parts of Yamagata Prefecture. The doll’s body is thick and gets slimmer toward the bottom. It has designs of overlapping chrysanthemums or cherry blossoms. The head features a “Tegara” hair ornament, depicted by radiating red accents.
7. Yamagata Style (山形系) – Yamagata
The dolls are produced in the center of Yamagata City rather than in hot spring towns. Inspired by the Sakunami type, they have small heads and slim bodies. This style often features lovely blossoms of plum or sometimes Yamagata’s official flower, the safflower.
8. Nanbu Style (南部系) – Iwate
This style of kokeshi doll is commonly found in the cities of Morikoa and Hanamakin in Iwaki Prefecture. Traditionally, these dolls were left plain to emphasize the beauty of their natural wooden texture. Simple paintings were added later, inspired by the Naruko and Togatta styles. The doll’s head is loosely attached, giving it a distinct knocking sound when moved.
9. Tsuchiyu Style (土湯系) – Fukushima
In Tsuchiyu Onsen, the doll has a small head and a slim trunk painted in bright, wavy stripes. A black bullseye carving on top of the head is a distinctive feature of this style. Another unique aspect of this doll is the red hair ornament above the fringe. Their long noses and tiny mouths give them a very cute look.
10. Nakanosawa Style (中ノ沢系) – Fukushima
This beautiful kokeshi is nicknamed “Tako Bozu (たこ坊主).” It comes from Nakanosawa Onsen, near Mount Bandai. The doll has big, red-rimmed eyes and a prominent nose. Cherry blossoms or peony flower motifs usually adorn the doll’s trunk.
11. Tsugaru Style (津軽系) – Aomori
These dolls are handmade in the Tsugaru district of Aomori Prefecture, where the whole figure is carved from a single piece of wood. They feature a bob-cut hairstyle, a tight waist, and flared-out feet like a skirt. Painted designs usually include a daruma face or peony flowers of the Tsugaru family’s crest.
12. Kijiyama Style (木地山系) – Akita
In the city of Yuzawa in Akita Prefecture, these kokeshi dolls are crafted from one piece of wood. They have slightly elongated heads with bobbed hair, crowned with red ribbon-like ornaments. Some paintings feature a striped kimono, while other varieties may include chrysanthemum or plum blossom patterns.
Contemporary Kokeshi Dolls
Since World War II, creative kokeshi dolls (Sosaku Kokeshi) have been a growing trend, especially in Gunma prefecture. They have vibrant colors and more intricate designs, emphasizing their facial features. They also have more rounded bodies, shaped with special machinery rather than hand-powered lathes. While traditional kokeshi are typically wood-made, contemporary versions are available in different materials.
Here are some examples of modern kokeshi so you can get an idea of what they look like:
- Usaburo Kokeshi
- Kyoohoo Kokeshi
- Tokyo Kokeshi
Which is your favorite style of kokeshi? Traditional or creative? Regardless, these one-of-a-kind dolls will add a bit of Japanese culture to your space.
Where to Find Japanese Kokeshi Dolls
The All Japan Kokeshi Doll Contest is annually celebrating kokeshi dolls’ craftsmanship. Held in the city of Shiroishi, contestants from all over Japan compete to create gorgeous designs. From traditional styles to modern interpretations, entries are judged based on creativity and overall presentation. You can also find many workshops and a great selection of dolls to pick up on your way out! Don’t miss this amazing exhibit if you get the chance!
Japan’s Kokeshi Museum in Osaki City is a must-see for anyone looking for a unique experience. The museum hosts vibrant displays of both traditional and creative kokeshi art. You can also learn about the history and craftsmanship of these dolls. So, include it in your plans if you are in the area! Zao Kokeshi Museum in Togatta Onsen is also worth visiting if you are a fan of quirky museums.
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