A vintage omiyage kokeshi doll hails from Kagoshima (鹿児島), a culturally rich region in southern Kyushu known for its volcanic landscapes and vibrant traditions. Standing at 11cm tall, the doll is crafted in a playful, contemporary folk style with a round head and cylindrical body, topped with a handwoven straw hat evoking the attire of rural Japan.
What makes this piece particularly delightful is the companion figure at its side, a smiling daikon radish character, complete with painted leafy greens and a tied burlap band. In Japanese culture, daikon is often associated with health, fertility, and local harvests, and its inclusion adds a layer of humorous charm and regional flavor to the set.
The kokeshi's body is decorated with hand-painted calligraphy and colorful illustrations referencing Kagoshima’s famous Sakurajima volcano, as well as motifs of local identity. Mounted on a slice of natural wood and stamped with the red seal of Kagoshima, this set embodies the warmth of southern Japan and makes for a delightful collectible or gift.
