Nippon Kokeshi-kan

At the Japan Kokeshi Museum, demonstrations of kokeshi doll making are held on weekends and holidays. Visitors can observe the process of making kokeshi dolls, which are crafted with great care by skilled artisans. It's rare to see kokeshi dolls being made right before your eyes in everyday life. The demonstrations take place from 9:00 to 16:00, so be sure to check the schedule on the website if you're interested.

At the Japan Kokeshi Memorial Museum, you can learn about the process of making kokeshi dolls through various exhibits in the museum. The exhibits are all interesting, such as the process called "futari-biki," where two people work together to carve the wood, and the use of a lathe to shave the wood into a long, thin shape. In addition, the museum's charm lies in the fact that you can experience what you learned in the exhibits firsthand through demonstrations and painting experiences.

The Japanese Kokeshi Museum has a shop called the "sokubaijo" where kokeshi dolls are sold. The variety of kokeshi dolls available here is attractive, including original designs and one-of-a-kind dolls made by craftsmen that can only be purchased here. Additionally, you can purchase your own original kokeshi doll made through an painting experience. Why not purchase a unique kokeshi doll as a souvenir of your visit to the Japanese Kokeshi Museum or as a gift for a friend?

Naruko Onsen, where the Japan Kokeshi Museum is located, is the site of the National Kokeshi Festival. The festival features various events related to kokeshi, such as kokeshi dedication ceremonies, kokeshi memorial services, and kokeshi demonstrations. The Japan Kokeshi Museum displays unique kokeshi dolls dedicated at the festival. Take your time to find your favorite among the kokeshi dolls, each with its own unique expression and pattern.

Around Naruko Onsen, where the Japanese Kokeshi Museum is located, there are many natural tourist spots such as Naruko Gorge. Especially in autumn, when the leaves change color, you can enjoy the vivid autumn foliage around the Japanese Kokeshi Museum. By using a hot spring hopping ticket, you can also visit hot spring areas such as Akakura Onsen and Shiomi Onsen. In addition, events such as the Yumekumori Market and Naruko Onsen Appreciation Festival are also held, so don't forget to gather information!