A vintage omiyage kokeshi doll of 娘巡礼人形 (Musume Junrei Ningyō) or "Pilgrim Maiden Doll," a regional souvenir (omiyage) kokeshi from Dōgo Onsen (道後温泉), one of Japan’s oldest and most beloved hot springs, located in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture.
This particular doll is inspired by the tradition of the Shikoku Pilgrimage (四国遍路, Shikoku Henro), a revered Buddhist journey encompassing 88 temples across the island. Pilgrims—many of them women in modern times—traditionally dress in white with conical hats and walking sticks as they make their way across the island seeking spiritual growth, healing, or reflection. The doll wears a vibrantly painted pilgrim outfit, complete with a woven conical hat labeled 花娘 ("Flower Maiden") and a small circular bowl representing the alms bowl often carried by pilgrims. A wooden marker inscribed with 道後温泉 (Dōgo Onsen) stands beside her, grounding her in her place of origin.
Carved from wood and lovingly hand-painted in vivid colors, this figure encapsulates a blend of spiritual heritage, regional identity, and nostalgic charm. As a collectible kokeshi, she not only commemorates a visit to Dōgo Onsen but also honors the quiet resilience and devotion of those undertaking pilgrimage in Shikoku.
