Kokeshi Doll Villages Obanazawa and Naruko: Warmth of Wood in Tohoku Traditional Crafts

Kokeshi Doll Villages

The region centered on Obanazawa, Yamagata, and Naruko area (Osaki City, Miyagi) is a major production center for traditional Tohoku kokeshi dolls. Kokeshi are wooden dolls turned on a lathe and hand-painted, with various regional styles existing throughout Tohoku.

Naruko-Style Kokeshi Characteristics

- Features: Thick body, large head; the head squeaks when rotated - Painting: Floral patterns centered on chrysanthemum and plum - Production Area: Naruko Onsen, Miyagi (Tohoku's largest production area)

Obanazawa (Around Ginzan Onsen) Kokeshi

- Yamagata-style Kokeshi: Firm-waisted form - Workshops around Ginzan Onsen: Kokeshi workshop lathe experiences

Kokeshi Experiences

- Naruko Kokeshi Making Workshop: Try the lathe and painting at Naruko Onsen workshops - Kokeshi Exhibition Halls: Exhibition and sales of kokeshi from various regions

Getting There

- Alight at JR Rikuu East Line Naruko Onsen Station (about 50 minutes from Furukawa)

Tips

Kokeshi range from a few hundred yen to tens of thousands depending on size and style. Most workshops require advance reservations for making experiences. A relaxed stay at Naruko Onsen while visiting kokeshi workshops is recommended.