This omiyage kokeshi is modeled after the legendary folk character Kohara Shōsuke (小原庄助), a beloved figure in Japanese regional folklore known for his carefree lifestyle, love of sake, and perpetual good cheer. With a plump, jovial face, bright red smile, and white cloth casually tied over his head—often associated with a sake-drinking reveler—this doll captures his iconic appearance in delightful detail.
The kokeshi is vibrantly hand-painted in cheerful tones of blue, red, and yellow, depicting a casual yukata with a cross-hatch design and broad brushstrokes that give it a spontaneous, celebratory feel. His rosy cheeks and relaxed expression embody Shōsuke’s legendary reputation for indulging in life’s pleasures, symbolizing a carefree attitude and festive spirit.
In Japanese culture, Kohara Shōsuke is often a humorous symbol of enjoying life to the fullest—even to excess—and is closely tied to the region of Aizu in Fukushima Prefecture. This kokeshi makes a playful and culturally rich souvenir, representing both local tradition and the timeless appeal of humor and indulgence in everyday life.
