This handcrafted kokeshi doll is a regional folk art piece from Aizu Bandai-san (会津磐梯山), a famous mountain in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. As a symbol of Aizu’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, this kokeshi serves as a charming souvenir from the Bandai Highlands, an area known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and historical significance.
The doll’s face is decorated with simple yet expressive features, typical of classic kokeshi designs, often reflecting warmth, nostalgia, and regional craftsmanship. Retaining the natural wood grain, the body is hand-painted with Aizu Bandai-themed artwork depicting Mount Bandai (磐梯山) – An iconic stratovolcano in Fukushima, a beloved subject in local crafts.
Aizu Bandai-san (会津磐梯山) is a sacred and scenic peak in Fukushima, famous for its dramatic landscape changes due to an 1888 eruption, which reshaped the region. The mountain is closely tied to Aizu’s samurai history and local folk traditions, often celebrated in Aizu Bandai-san (会津磐梯山), a well-known Japanese folk song. This kokeshi is a souvenir from the Bandai Highlands area, where visitors enjoy lakes, hot springs (onsen), and nature trails.
