This washi okiagari ningyō 和紙 起き上がり人形 is a traditional Japanese folk toy crafted from handmade paper. Rounded in an egg-like form and lightly weighted at the base, the doll gently rights itself when tipped over—an enduring symbol of resilience and perseverance in Japanese culture.
The surface is covered in soft washi paper, delicately hand-painted with a serene female figure. Her expression is calm and minimalist, with fine black brushstrokes for the eyes and hair, and a small red accent at the lips and nose. She wears a pale blue kimono adorned with simple white motifs, while subtle touches of yellow frame her hair. The gentle, slightly uneven texture of the washi enhances its warm, handcrafted character.
Okiagari dolls have long been cherished as auspicious charms, representing the spirit of “nanakorobi yaoki” (七転び八起き) — “fall down seven times, rise eight.” They are often given as tokens of encouragement, protection, and good fortune.
Lightweight yet symbolic, this washi okiagari ningyō beautifully reflects the quiet poetry of Japanese folk craft: humble materials transformed into an object of comfort, optimism, and enduring hope.
