[Niigata / Tokamachi] Tokamachi's traditional craft Fortune Doll "Chinkoro" making experience

This is an experience where you can make a "chinkoro," a traditional craft of Tokamachi. [What is a "chinkoro"?] A "chinkoro," a small, colorful doll made from rice flour, is something every Tokamachi resident has made. The word "chinkoro" means "puppy," and they are often shaped like puppies or the zodiac animal of the year. They are made around January each year and displayed in homes. However, because they are made from rice flour paste, they break and break within a few weeks. The more broken pieces there are, the better the luck. The culture of chinkoro making is said to have originated in the Edo period, but its origins are unclear. [What you'll get from this experience] In this program, you will learn to make a chinkoro, a traditional Tokamachi craft, under the guidance of a local instructor. You can go beyond the traditional puppies and zodiac animals and create your own original chinkoro, featuring anime characters, mascots, animals, and more. This is an experience that anyone, regardless of age or gender, can enjoy. Why not try making a lucky chinkoro as a souvenir? *Only Japanese and English are supported.

"Chinkoro" is a traditional decorative doll made from steamed rice flour, passed down since ancient times in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture. The soft, chewy dough is kneaded, vibrantly colored with food coloring, and shaped into shapes based on your imagination, such as the zodiac sign of the year, animals, or your favorite characters. No special skills are required, and the charm of making it is that it allows you to return to your childhood and immerse yourself in the creative process, just like art class. These small dolls, beloved as a winter feature of Tokamachi, reflect the individuality of the maker in their expressions. Experience the joy of creating your own original, one-of-a-kind "Chinkoro."

This adorable doll has a unique legend that can only be found in snowy regions. When the chinkoro dries, fine cracks appear on its surface, and locals say, "The more cracks there are, the more happiness will flow in from them." While things are generally avoided from breaking, here it is considered a good omen. Not only is it fun to make, but after taking it home and displaying it, you can enjoy watching the cracks appear over time, which is an added layer of enjoyment to this experience. This small charm, which is ephemeral yet beautiful and brings good fortune, is a special cultural heritage that embodies the history of Tokamachi and the warm wishes of its people.

Making chinkoro feels similar to playing with clay, so anyone can easily enjoy it, regardless of age or nationality, from small children to the elderly. Local instructors will kindly teach you the tricks, so even those who are not good with hands can participate with peace of mind. The time you spend sitting around the table with family and friends, chatting about what kind of face to make, and getting your hands dirty while having fun will become a wonderful memory of your trip. You can take your completed chinkoro home as a souvenir. Why not display this doll in your home as a keepsake of your trip and a doll that brings happiness?