History (Origins)

This folk toy, also considered to be a lucky charm, came to Utsunomiya during the Edo Period (1600–1868) .
When an epidemic struck the city, the catching and eating yellow carp from the city's river is said to have saved many people.

Characteristics (Techniques and Materials)

These folk toys are made using papier-mâché, which is painted using a special drawing tool. The result is a glossy appearance with little color fading over time.

Contact Information

Masanobu Ogawa
2-4-8, Odori, Utsunomiya-shi, Tochigi, 320-0811
TEL: +81-28-634-7583