Nariko Kokeshi Workshop Tour

Nariko Onsen is a premier kokeshi production center in the Tohoku region, where visitors can observe craftsmen working in workshops scattered throughout the hot spring town, carving kokeshi using traditional lathe techniques. Nariko-style kokeshi are characterized by their distinctive "head-turning" feature—when rotated, the head makes a squeaking sound—and their charming appearance continues to captivate enthusiasts today. The Japan Kokeshi Museum displays over 5,000 kokeshi from across the country, and visitors can also participate in decorative painting experiences. Every September, the National Kokeshi Festival features artisan demonstrations and sales events, offering an opportunity to appreciate the profound cultural significance of kokeshi.