A vintage Omiyage Kokeshi originating from Shiobara Onsen (塩原温泉) in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, featuring three adorable miniature wooden dolls sitting together on a rustic bench.
This delightful handcrafted scene depicts three cheerful children with oversized rounded heads, expressive black eyes, and innocent, playful faces. Each figure wears a colourful outfit in shades of blue, red, and yellow, complemented by tiny decorative hair ornaments made from braided threads.
The figures are arranged on a simple wooden bench attached to a rectangular base bearing the inscription 塩原 (Shiobara), identifying its origin as a souvenir from the famous hot spring destination.
Shiobara located in the mountainous region of Tochigi Prefecture, Shiobara Onsen is a historic Japanese hot spring resort celebrated for its natural beauty, traditional inns, and peaceful countryside atmosphere.
Like many Japanese onsen towns, Shiobara developed a tradition of producing charming wooden souvenirs for visitors. These miniature folk-art creations became especially popular during the Shōwa period, reflecting Japan's growing domestic tourism culture.
Unlike traditional regional kokeshi, which follow established forms and decorative conventions, Omiyage Kokeshi were created as imaginative travel souvenirs, often depicting children, everyday activities, and playful miniature scenes.
Size: 12 x 6 x 9cm
