A vintage omiyage kokeshi doll from Yubara Onsen (湯原温泉), a historic hot spring town nestled in the mountains of Okayama Prefecture. Playfully crafted in the shape of a smiling bather soaking in a wooden tub, this figure captures the joy and relaxation of a traditional Japanese onsen experience.
The doll features a cheerful hand-painted face with rosy cheeks and a wide red smile, topped with a miniature tenugui (washcloth) wrapped around the head—a classic sign of a leisurely bath. Seated inside a small barrel-style wooden bath, the figure is surrounded by miniature bathhouse details: a sake bottle, cup, and wooden bucket rest on a side platform, enhancing the scene’s realism.
The “tub” itself is beautifully carved with faux woodgrain texture and adorned with golden cord, giving the piece a rustic yet decorative charm. A small hanging sign reads 湯原温泉 (Yubara Onsen), marking its origin and commemorating one of the region’s most beloved open-air baths, known for its natural rock-lined pools and soothing mineral waters.
