Most of us have a mutual idea when we hear the word "doll". Most of us would think of a slender, fair and blond Barbie, with her partner Ken as quintessence.
However, in Japan, dolls have much deeper significance, and not just miniature versions of humans. It is a representation of culture, important people such as samurai and the Imperial family, and the modesty of Japanese women. Dolls in the ancient times are also made as ornaments for festivals and religious observances.
Currently, the Japanese dolls maintained its classical look. Different unique versions were developed in various cities in Japan. The vividly-colored toys are made of variety of styles and materials. Here are some of the dolls that are worth buying as keepsakes.
1. Gosho Doll - These bulging small dolls are originally made as gifts as an additional ornament at the Imperial Palace. Gosho dolls originated from the old capital, Kyoto.
2. Saga Doll - This doll has religious roots. Saga dolls are first crafted by the sculptors of Buddhism. Among all dolls, it is the only doll that has a rotating head, which is an interesting feature.
3. Hakata Doll - It is the most common kind of classic geisha doll. It was famous for its beautiful baked finish. It originated from Fukuoka Prefecture.
4. Kyo Doll - Another doll rooting from Kyoto, the Kyo doll resembles the Hakata doll, but is more popular for its intricatelly-woven costumes.
5. Kokeshi Doll - This is also one of the common dolls in Japan. This wooden cylindrical keepsake that can be compared to the appearance of Russia's Matryoshka doll.
Modern Kokeshi doll. Photo by Giuseppe Milo. Licensed under Creative Commons. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)
6. Daruma Doll - Among all the dolls, this one has the most eccentric appearance. It has a round and hollow body, with blank eyes. It was modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of the Zen sect of Buddhism. It has five colors depending on your goal: Red (Luck), Purple (Health), Yellow (Security), Gold (Prosperity), and White (Love). Once you have decided what goal you should have, paint one of the eyes of the doll. Place it somewhere visible to you. When you achieved your goal, that's the time you shall paint the other eye.
Photo by masaki ikeda. Licensed under Creative Commons. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en)
When you go to Japan, never forget to take home some of these unique piece of art of Japan!
Photo by TANAKA Juuyoh. Licensed under Creative Commons. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)
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