I'll report on the Akita Kokeshi Exhibition, an event where you can purchase kokeshi dolls.This post is based on the event held in 2023.
The Akita Kokeshi Exhibition is a showcase and sales event for kokeshi dolls held in Yuzawa City, Akita Prefecture.
In 2023, it took place over two days on August 5th and 6th at Yuzawa Royal Hotel.
I arrived in Yuzawa City on August 4th, the day before the event, and stayed at a nearby hotel, as Yuzawa Royal Hotel was fully booked.
On the morning of the 5th, I arrived at the venue around 8 am, only to find nearly 40 people already waiting. The event was scheduled to start at 10 am, leaving a two-hour wait. I obtained a lottery ticket to determine the entry order.
In kokeshi events, these entry tickets are crucial. To purchase the desired kokeshi, it's essential to enter the sales venue as early as possible. Most kokeshi events allow entry based on the order of chairs set up days or weeks in advance. If this sounds confusing, please refer to my past posts.
Past articles: All Japan Kokeshi Festival Part.1
However, the Akita Kokeshi Exhibition determines entry order through a lottery, providing everyone with a fair chance to buy sought-after and lovely kokeshi if they can get a lottery ticket before the drawing time.
Unfortunately, luck wasn't on my side. I entered the venue almost at the very end. In this case, it would have been better to be the 43rd person entering in the order of arrival. Damn!
People are streaming into the sales venue one after another, and I watch them go in.
Before entering the venue, there's also a preview where all exhibited kokeshi can be seen in advance. It's an opportunity to narrow down choices. Take photos now while you can.
Kokeshi dolls by Fumio Miharu
Kokeshi dolls by Tatsuo Sato
Kokeshi dolls by Sachiko Saito
Extremely popular items: Kokeshi dolls by Kozue Sato
For every ¥1,000 spent on purchases, you receive a lottery ticket. With these tickets, you can try your luck at a raffle in the corner of the venue. If fortunate, you might win additional kokeshi or Japanese sake.
I ended up winning a considerable amount of sake. Liquids are quite heavy, so it became quite a challenge. The kokeshi was what I wanted, after all.
It seems luck wasn't on my side today.....
In addition, inside the venue, you can enjoy painting your own kokeshi or witness a live demonstration of kokeshi crafting.
The painting of kokeshi is guided by skilled artisans.
Demonstration by Kazunari Takahashi, a kokeshi artisan
Although the lottery results weren’t favorable, I was able to purchase many lovely kokeshi dolls and had a great time!
I encourage you to enjoy the Akita Kokeshi Exhibition too!