📖 Product Description

This is a traditional Japanese folk doll known as a Kaga Ningyo (Kaga Doll), representing Kintaro, a legendary child hero in Japanese folklore.
The doll dates back to the 1970s and features Kintaro in a bold yet endearing pose, holding a matoi (fireman’s ceremonial baton), wearing his iconic red apron.

What makes this piece unique is the balance between strength and elegance—a hallmark of Kaga dolls.
The doll's serene expression and refined features reflect the influence of imperial court dolls (Gosho Ningyo), while its posture conveys vitality and cultural symbolism.

The wooden base is firmly attached to the figure, ensuring stability and easy display.
The included gold folding screen further enhances its decorative presence, making it perfect for seasonal celebration or cultural appreciation.

📦 Item Details

• Product: Kaga Doll – Kintaro with Gold Folding Screen
• Estimated Year: 1970s (Vintage)
• Condition: Pre-owned (Good condition with minor signs of age)
• Material: Wood base, molded composite (likely paulownia sawdust), fabric, paper screen
• Included: Doll (with fixed base) + Gold folding screen

📐 Dimensions & Weight

• Height: 19.7 cm / approx. 7.75 inches
• Width: 13.2 cm / approx. 5.2 inches
• Depth: 10.2 cm / approx. 4.0 inches
• Weight: 180 g / approx. 6.3 oz

Please note: As this is a handcrafted item, slight variations may occur.

🎎 Cultural Significance

Kintaro, also known as the “Golden Boy,” is a popular figure in Japanese folklore symbolizing health, strength, and courage.
He is often displayed during Children’s Day (Tango no Sekku) in May to wish for the healthy growth of young boys.

Kaga dolls originated in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, and are known for their refined expressions and powerful postures, blending courtly beauty with regional folk traditions.

🌸 Perfect For:

• Traditional Japanese décor
• Children's Day (May 5th) displays
• Gifts for fans of Japanese culture
• Unique collector's items or seasonal decorations

🚚 Shipping & Notes

• Carefully packed and shipped with tracking
• Shipping cost is included (for US, Canada, EU, and other selected regions)
• This is a vintage item; please expect light signs of age

🎎 What is a Kaga Doll?

Kaga dolls are a form of traditional Japanese folk art that originated in Kanazawa, the historical castle town of the Kaga Domain (present-day Ishikawa Prefecture).
In the Edo period, the Kaga Domain was considered an "outside feudal clan" (tozama daimyo), which made it difficult for the region to openly promote martial training.
As a result, martial elements were ingeniously woven into festival performances such as the shishimai (lion dance) and Kaga Tobi (firefighter performances with ceremonial batons).

These expressive traditions were eventually transformed into handcrafted dolls that celebrate both the refinement of court culture and the vigor of common people.

Kaga dolls are deeply influenced by Gosho Ningyo, the court dolls of Kyoto, known for their chubby faces and graceful expressions.
However, Kaga dolls often feature bold and heroic poses, capturing the dynamism of ritual performances and local folklore.

🛠 How Are They Made?

Kaga dolls are traditionally made by molding a mixture of paulownia sawdust and natural glue into a form, then applying multiple layers of gofun—a smooth, lustrous paste made from crushed oyster shells and animal glue.
Each layer is carefully dried and polished by hand, resulting in a silky, porcelain-like finish.

The meticulous process gives each doll a warm, organic texture, while subtle variations in facial features reflect the individuality and craftsmanship of the artisan.

When displayed with a gold folding screen, the doll not only becomes a charming decorative piece but also embodies the seasonal elegance and spiritual meaning behind Japanese festivals.

Kintaro, often called the "Golden Boy," is a legendary figure in Japanese folklore.
He is portrayed as a strong, kind-hearted child who grows up in the mountains, befriends wild animals, and performs superhuman feats of strength.

The character of Kintaro is believed to be based on the real-life historical figure Sakata Kintoki, a warrior from the Heian period who later served as one of the Four Heavenly Kings under the samurai general Minamoto no Yorimitsu.
Sakata Kintoki is also known in popular culture for slaying demons and protecting the imperial court.

Over time, Kintaro came to symbolize health, courage, and the hope for a child's prosperous future.
He is especially popular during Tango no Sekku (Children’s Day), celebrated on May 5th in Japan, when families display warrior dolls like Kintaro to bless boys with strength and vitality.

Shipping & Handling

This item will be shipped via Japan Post with a tracking number.

Worldwide shipping is free of charge.

We carefully pack each item using protective materials to ensure safe delivery.

Customs & Import Taxes

Please note that import duties, VAT, and customs fees may apply depending on your country’s regulations.

These charges are the buyer’s responsibility.

In accordance with international laws, we do not mark items as "gifts" or under-declare their value to avoid customs duties.

Cleaning

This vintage item has been gently and carefully cleaned to preserve its original appearance and quality.

Returns & Refunds

We do not accept returns or refunds for vintage items as a general policy.

Please make sure to check all photos and videos thoroughly before purchasing.