Traditional Crafts

Hakata Hariko DollsFolk Crafts

The method for making Hakata hariko dolls was introduced to Hakata in the 18th century by dollmakers from the Kansai region. These dolls are still made by hand using the same meticulous and traditional techniques. This involves forming the shape of the doll by covering a wooden or plaster mold with multiple layers of Japanese washi paper, coating it with glue made from seaweed and leaving it out to dry in the sun. Painted with bright colors and featuring popular characters or animals such as tigers and Daruma, Hakata hariko are widely popular as lucky charms.