Origin of the Echizen Bamboo Doll

In the northern part of Fukui prefecture is the Echizen district. The climate of the are is severe. There is usually a lot of snow in winter then it shifts to the intense heat and humidity of summer.

These conditions produce high quality bamboo called madake and mosodake. Because of its strength, Echizen bamboo has been popular for use in baskets and other household goods.

Around 1951, two brothers - Yasutaka Morota and Sanshiro Yonenaga - began to use Echizen bamboo to make dolls. The strength and beauty of the bamboo made it well suited to the work. The brothers were soon producing a range of dolls - historical figures, dancing ladies, musicians and monks from local temples.

In May 1956, the dolls won first proze at the All-Japan Bamboo Work Fair and later took top honors at the All-Japan New manufactured Goods Fair. These awards helped give recognition to Echizen bamboo dolls and was the starting point of the popularity they have today.

The high quality and beauty of Echizen bamboo dolls ensure they will be treasures for years to come. What you see in the gallery below are samples of what is available in the store. These gallery dolls are expensive, some running in the hundreds of dollars, but much cheaper ones (starting around $10) can also be found. lease contact the gallery managers by writing to info @ japanippon (dot) com for details..

Take your time walking through the gallery, and if there is anything you would like to see in (slightly) greater detail, just double click the image and you will be whisked off to a private viewing.