Location: Echizen Awara Onsen 越前芦原温泉 Size: 8.5 x 11 x 2cm
A historic hot spring town located in Fukui Prefecture. The front side is a bold illustration of a bamboo warrior doll (越前竹人形) representing a 鬼女 (kijo) — a mythical demon woman from Japanese folklore. The kijo is often depicted as a tragic or vengeful female spirit, sometimes born from sorrow or betrayal, and this doll reflects that dual nature: elegant and fearsome.
Tsuko-Tegata is a kind of wooden passport that was used in the Edo Period as an identity card for travelers when passing from region to region. They had been sold a lot in Showa period as mingei type souvenirs all over Japan. It's also a protector for safety and peace for family.
