Raccoon Wooden Top - "Hikoichi Koma"

In Japanese, "Tanuki" means raccoon, and "koma" means tops. 

These charming Tanuki Koma raccoon tops come apart into four pieces: the head, hat, body, and base—where you can place the tail into the base to spin it!

Each wooden top is handcrafted by Mahiko Iseri in Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. Each top is hand painted and have unique characteristics. 

• Approximate measurements
• Small:  2" W x 3 1/2" H
• Large: 2 1/2" W x 4 3/4" H
• Material: wood, paint
• Care instruction: to clean, gently wipe the surface with a dry cloth. 
• Do not hand wash or get wet.

Story:

I have fond memories of playing with these tops in my grandparents' room. Raccoons are often depicted as funny characters in Japanese folktales, and I loved disassembling and spinning them.

The tradition began in 1947 when Mahiko’s father, Tsutomu Iseri, crafted wooden raccoon toys after World War II. Originally a baseball bat manufacturer, Tsutomu sought to create real bats for children who had played with wooden branches during the war. Over time, his desire to make something fun and creative led to the invention of the raccoon tops. Mahiko eventually returned to Kumamoto to take over the family business after years working as a car salesman near Tokyo. He has continued to handcraft these delightful toys, preserving their charm.