Japanology Plus (2014)

Season 3: Episode 19

The plain, unassuming wooden dolls called kokeshi are believed to have originated about 200 years ago in hot spring resorts in northeast Japan. A popular souvenir for children, they later drew the attention of collectors and these days are captivating a new generation of fans. Our expert guest, Yosuke Jikuhara, is a designer of posters and toys who has written a book about kokeshi and these days acts as a spokesman for their unique appeal. And in Plus One, we meet two enthusiastic kokeshi collectors.