Kokeshi dolls are a favourite Japanese gift and are considered a gift of friendship.
The Kokeshi originated in the Tohiku region in the north of Japan as a simple child's toy. These dolls are usually made of wood, in a tube shape with no limbs, and brightly painted often with floral designs. Traditional Kokeshi dolls are widely collected in Japan and all over the world, and they can be categorised according to method of manufactur5e, shape and decoration. There are also more contemporary designs available which incorporate elements of modern art and sculpture.