Japanese Kokeshi Museum

The Japanese Kokeshi Museum locates in northwestern Miyagi. Kokeshi are traditional wooden dolls that originated in northeastern Japan. At the Japanese Kokeshi Museum, children’s book author and kokeshi enthusiast Fukazawa Kaname’s kokeshi collection is exhibited, along with kokeshi from all over Japan.
The kokeshi in the museum are separated into 11 different types. They all have their unique characteristics, so be sure to look at them closely one by one.
You can learn about the history of kokeshi at the museum as well. There is a play area too, where you can be hands-on with the kokeshi dolls, and even a paint-your-own-kokeshi experience.
In the souvenir shop, there is an abundant selection of kokeshi to choose from. Before you leave, make sure to take a photo with the giant kokeshi doll standing outside of the museum.
The museum is closed between Janurary and March.
(Photo credit: Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Division)