Traditional Japanese toys are often made of wood, crafted carefully, and designed to bring joy through simple yet clever mechanics. They teach us to find joy in simplicity, balance in motion, and beauty in imperfection. They also make wonderful souvenirs and decorations, capturing the essence of Japanese culture. Without further ado, let’s explore some popular traditional Japanese toys!
Kokeshi dolls
Kokeshi dolls are adorable Japanese toys that come from the Tohoku region. These cute dolls have been around for over 150 years and are loved by Japanese kids and adults alike. They are made from wood, usually cherry or dogwood. Unlike other dolls, kokeshi have a simple round head and a smooth cylindrical body with no arms or legs. Each doll is carefully hand-painted with delicate floral or geometric patterns, often in bright colors like red, black, and yellow.
There are two main types of kokeshi dolls: traditional and creative. Traditional kokeshi dolls come in different styles from regions such as Naruko or Togatta, each with a special look. Naruko dolls, for example, have heads that squeak when turned! Meanwhile, creative ones let artists design fun, colorful patterns, sometimes even with modern or cartoon themes.
In addition, kokeshi dolls are also symbols of good luck, happiness, and Japanese culture. Today, you can find them in shops all over Japan. There are also museums, including the Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Museum, where you can see thousands of Kokeshi dolls and even try painting your own.
Daruma otoshi
Daruma otoshi is an exciting Japanese game that tests your skills and patience! It comes with a daruma doll on top and colorful wooden blocks stacked beneath it. The daruma’s face usually looks strong and serious, inspired by Bodhidharma, a famous Buddhist monk. The game pieces are usually made of sturdy wood and have different colors, making them bright to play with.
The goal of the daruma otoshi is to carefully hit the lower blocks with a small hammer, one at a time, without making the daruma fall over. It’s often seen at festivals, where children can have fun and compete for prizes. There are also many varieties, from simple wooden sets to beautifully decorated versions sold as souvenirs.
Beigoma
Beigoma, also called koma, is a traditional Japanese spinning top that has been loved for centuries. It is a small, heavy metal top (about 3cm wide) that players spin by wrapping it with a long string and launching onto a playing surface. In the past, beigoma was created by packing sand into spiral seashells and sealing them with wax. Later, they were crafted from lead and then from cast metal.
Today, only one factory in Japan still makes traditional beigoma, but this Japanese toy continues to have a special place in Japanese culture. Festivals and special events sometimes hold beigoma competitions. Some players customize their tops by changing their shape or adding weight to strengthen them. Moreover, beigoma also inspired the modern Beyblade toys, bringing new attention to this classic game.
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Taketombo
Taketombo, or bamboo dragonfly, is a Japanese toy that flies through the air when spun and released. It is made from lightweight bamboo and has a thin, propeller-shaped wing attached to a stick. It’s believed to have been invented during the Edo period (1603-1868), possibly by the inventor Hiraga Gennai. The toy also has roots in China, where an ancient document mentions a similar spinning object.
To make it fly, you simply spin the stick between your palms and release it, watching as it whirls gracefully into the sky. Many festivals and workshops, like those held at Kiyosumi Garden in Tokyo, let families try making and flying taketombo together.
Hagoita
Hagoita are beautifully decorated wooden paddles that were once used to play hanetsuki, a traditional New Year’s game in Japan. While the game has become less common, hagoita are now treasured as lucky ornaments. These paddles often feature vibrant portraits of kabuki actors, elegant women in kimono, or even celebrities and renowned athletes.
The craft of making hagoita began in the Edo period. Artists used washi paper and cloth to create raised designs, making each paddle a piece of art. Over time, they became cherished presents, especially for baby girls, symbolizing good health and protection from harm.
Every year from December 17 to 19, the Hagoita Ichi (Hagoita Market) occurs at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. This lively event has been going on for over 350 years, drawing thousands of visitors eager to buy beautifully crafted hagoita. The market is filled with stalls selling various paddles, from small and simple ones to large and intricate designs made with gold leaf.
Why should I experience traditional Japanese toys?
Traditional Japanese toys are more than just playthings; they hold history, craftsmanship, and cultural meaning in every detail. From the quiet elegance of kokeshi dolls to the spinning energy of beigoma, these treasures are like gateways to understanding Japan’s heart. They also invite us to slow down and reconnect with hands-on wonder. Have you ever played with a traditional Japanese toy, or is there one you’d love to try? Share your thoughts below!
Sources
- Google Arts and Culture. “Doll | folk toy | souvenir: Kokeshi Doll.“
- Google Arts and Culture. “Folk toys of Tottori Prefecture“
- Google Arts and Culture. “Senso-ji“
- Traditional Crafts of Tokyo. “Edo Oshi-e Hagoita“
- The Asahi Shimbun. “In throwback, more Saitama kids spinning ‘beigoma’ tops“
