Okiagari Kobōshi

Okiagari kobōshi (lit. ‘getting up little monk’) are small folk toys originating from Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture in north-eastern Japan. Hollow with a weighted bottom, if knocked over, they always return to an upright position. This roly-poly design relates to the Japanese proverb nanakorobi yaoki (seven times down, eight times up). Okiagari kobōshi are a symbol of resilience and perseverance. Passing on the Aizu traditions, these okiagari kobōshi are handmade with utmost care by the craftspeople of the Nozawa Mingei workshop.

Medium size: Ø4.5 cm x H7 cm

Large size: Ø8 cm x H11 cm

Kansai

The Kansai region includes the second-most populated metropolitan area in Japan with its largest city Osaka. Kyoto and Nara, two of Japan’s former capital cities, are home to important temples and shrines and strongholds of intangible cultural heritage, such as the Kyoto textile weaving skills of Nishijin.