The Hidden Powers of Japan’s Folk Toys

Kyodo gangu 郷土玩具 are the traditional toys of Japan which are mostly made of clay, wood and paper. These toys parents used to give to their children although now they are more coveted by collectors than by children.

While the general shape remains the same, the shape and appearance of each type of toy differ depending on when, where and by whom it was created. Each of these toys embodies a different desire, a hidden power, or so it was hoped, that would watch over the children, especially their healthy growth or their safety and the prosperity of the family.

Although Kyodo gangu have attracted people’s attention in recent years, these toys are facing decline and are in danger of disappearing as there is a shortage of artisans to keep this art form alive. Being handmade each of these toys has a unique shape and size making them the perfect “omiyage” or souvenir from Japan! Here we present a list of these toys for you to start your collection!

Inu-hariko

Inu-hariko are papier-mâché dogs first made in the Edo period as amulets for childbirth and child-rearing. This toy has the figure of a dog because it is said that they give birth to their young very easily. Suitengu Temple was built in 1871 and is dedicated to fertility. Since the Edo period, pregnant women and couples expecting children have come to pray and it is here that you can buy an inu-hariko as a souvenir or keepsake.

Daruma

This classic Japanese figurine depicts the Zen monk Bodhidharma sitting in meditation. These figures are sold with both eyes blank as it is customary to draw their left eye while making a wish or setting a goal. The right eye is drawn once that wish or goal has been achieved. You can find them as souvenirs in almost any temple or shrine, although the Katsuoji Temple, north of Osaka, is a good place to get yours. His symbol is of achievement, of perseverance.

Akabeko

Akabeko are papier-mâché cows and pay homage to the legend of the red cows that came to the rescue when the construction of Enzou-ji, a temple in Yanaizu in Fukushima prefecture, was at a difficult stage. The akabeko gave his spirit to the Buddha and his flesh immediately turned to stone. He is considered a symbol of perseverance and endurance.

Another version of the legend states that a cow grazing nearby refused to leave the temple grounds after construction was completed and became a permanent fixture there. Beko is the Aizu dialect for cow and became a symbol of zealous devotion to the Buddha. Lightly touching the bull’s head makes it move. If you visit the Fukushima or Tohoku area, you will surely find it in souvenir shops since it has become the representative figure of this region.

Octopus in the Cat

It is known in Japanese as neko ni tako . You have probably noticed that cats are everywhere in Japan. This is because they are widely seen as a symbol of good luck and happiness, but if you really want to increase your fortune, you need an octopus riding on your kitty. It is said that the octopus represents “sticking to the good things” and that the cat is a lucky charm as “to drive away the bad” so it is an amulet that brings twice the fortune.

Kingyo Chochin

The Kingyo Chochin, simple lanterns that resemble goldfish, are said to have been inspired by the Nebuta festival in Aomori Prefecture and first made for children about 150 years ago. They are highly esteemed as a symbol of summer in Yanai City in Yamaguchi Prefecture, where the practice originated. Every August thousands of Kingyo Chochin lanterns decorate the town. The Kingyo or gold fish are symbols of wealth, fortune and good luck.

Tondari Hanetari

Originating in Tokyo, the Tondari Hanetari are mechanical toys that hop and hop like cats on a hot tin roof. To perform the trick, a bamboo sticking out of the front of the toy is swung back and affixed with pine resin. The seal weakens so the stick detaches, causing the figure to spring out of place with the force of a spring.