Miyagi Kokeshi-kan

This kokeshi-kan which opened in the 59th year of the showa era, is at the foot of Mt. Zao, is surrounded by nature but with modern buildings, is selling various different kokeshi toys and such in an easy and separated manner, with a demonstration, purchasing and experiencing (ceramic painting and such) corner all available. You can even create your own personal kokeshi.

Lots of different kokeshi

A kokeshi is a wooden toy that was created by the people living in the north of Yamamura, they hold a strong connection with hot springs, and it is said that they started to be developed in the Edo era. There are kokeshi made by Togatta, and although they are still being confirmed in history, it is thought that they might be the oldest kokeshi in history, and that kokeshi actually came from Togatta. The upper half of the kokeshi is always comparatively bigger, they typically have red radiating hair that is in a bob with almond eyes and an adult-like expression and bridged nose. There can be a lot of different designs, things such as ume, sakura, igeta, mokume, and others, furthermore, there is usually a 1-point design on the back such as a pine needle, butterfly or wild boar.