To use this site, please disable the ad blocking feature and reload the page.
This website uses cookies to collect information about your visit for purposes such as showing you personalized ads and content, and analyzing our website traffic. By clicking “Accept all,” you will allow the use of these cookies.
Users accessing this site from EEA countries and UK are unable to view this site without your consent. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Kenji Oda, 66, a craftsman of Hakata-ningyo Japanese dolls, is making ohajiki marbles for the New Year in his studio in Itoshima, Fukuoka Prefecture. Starting in 2015, he has produced 10 new designs of the traditional Japanese toys every year with the aim of them becoming local specialty goods. In the past his creations have included Chinese Zodiac animals and the seven deities of luck. This year, however, he is producing clay catfish and owls with the hope that the novel coronavirus crisis will end as soon as possible, as it is believed that such creatures are imbued with spiritual powers that can ward off evil. They will be sold for three days starting on New Year’s day.
