Akabeko and Aizu New Year Folk Crafts: The Red Cow Figurine Beloved as a Lucky Charm

Akabeko

Akabeko (Red Cow) is a papier-mâché cow figurine from the Aizu region of Fukushima. "Beko" means cow in Tohoku dialect. Characterized by a perpetually nodding head mechanism, it is Aizu's representative folk toy as a lucky charm and ward against disease.

Akabeko History

- Origin said to be connected to a legend related to the construction of Enzo-ji Temple in Yanaizu - Regional folk toy made in the Aizu area since the Edo period

Making Experiences

- Akabeko Painting Experience: Available at craft shops and tourist facilities in Aizuwakamatsu - Paint your own design on an unpainted white akabeko

Aizu Folk Crafts

- Okiagari Koboshi (Roly-Poly Doll): Small figurine that always rights itself when knocked over - Aizunuri (Lacquerware): Traditional Aizu lacquerware craft - Aizu Cotton: Durable and colorfully dyed cotton fabric

Getting There

- Souvenir shops around JR Banetsu West Line Aizuwakamatsu Station

Tips

Akabeko painting experiences are enjoyable for all ages. Exploring folk craft shops while walking the old streetscape around "Noguchi Hideyo Seishun-kan (Nanoka-machi)" in Aizu Wakamatsu is also fun.