Obake no Kinta - Karakuri Doll

A playful mechanical doll from Kumamoto, Japan. Pull the string and watch as its red face, rolling eyes, and long tongue pop out with surprise!

Handmade by 10th-generation craftsman Shinhachiro Atsuga using only bamboo, string, and natural Gofun (shell pigment), and stone powdered clay—no metal parts. A charming piece of Japanese folk art that brings joy and laughter to any space.

• Approximate measurements: overall 2 1/2" W x 2 3/4" D x 7 1/2" H
• Weight: 2 oz 
• Material: Gofun (shell pigment), paint, bamboo, strings, nylon (hair)
• Care instruction:  to clean, gently wipe the surface with a dry cloth.
• Do not wash or get wet.

Meet the Artisan: Mr. Shinhachiro Atsuga:
The 10th-generation craftsman of a clay doll workshop founded in 1853, Mr. Shinhachiro Atsuga continues a legacy of creating protective charms that have long been part of Japanese households. Traditionally, these dolls were more than decoration—they served as talismans, believed to ward off illness and invite good fortune.

When I reunited with him after a decade, I was delighted to see his passion for this craft as strong as ever. His dedication to preserving tradition while adding his own creative touch is truly inspiring.

While he faithfully carries on his family’s heritage of red-faced dolls, Shinhachiro’s creativity stretches further. A lifelong fan of Walt Disney, his fascination with animation began in 1949, when his uncle took him to see a movie. The lively movements of Mickey Mouse and animals behaving like humans left a lasting impression on him. From there, he began experimenting with mechanical dolls, ingeniously using bamboo skins and strings to bring them to life.

Today, alongside traditional talisman dolls, Shinhachiro’s collection includes whimsical moving figures—such as the red-faced Obake no Kinta—a testament to his enduring curiosity and artistry.