Colour your own kokeshi in a workshop at Japan House London while learning about craft toys from the Tōhoku region of north-eastern Japan.
Experience a craft tradition from Miyagi Prefecture by colouring your own kokeshi doll in this workshop held as part of TŌHOKU 3.11 Forward to the Future, a series of events and displays exploring the recovery of the Tōhoku region of north-eastern Japan.
Kokeshi are painted wooden dolls that originate from the Tōhoku region. These dolls are thought to have been first made as souvenirs for children in hot spring villages around the end of the Edo period (1603-1868 CE). Miyagi Prefecture is known for five styles of kokeshi: Naruko Kokeshi, Togatta Kokeshi, Yajiro Kokeshi, Sakunami Kokeshi and Hijiori Kokeshi.
The craft of making each type has been passed down over the years by local craftspeople, and the beauty and distinctive shapes and patterns of these dolls are still enjoyed today. In this workshop, participants can try their hand at colouring their own original kokeshi.
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