Akabeko Red Lucky Cow Figurine Handcrafted Japanese Home Decor wok The ayu sweetfish that swim

The ayu sweetfish that swim in the Nagara river are Gifu's main specialty

and you might be surprised at just how wonderful it tastes

This cute pink Daruma doll is handcrafted in Fukushima using the traditional Shirakawa Daruma method

takikomi gohan

Akabeko Red Lucky Cow Figurine Handcrafted Japanese Home Decor wok The ayu sweetfish that swimAkabeko is a traditional folk craft from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. It is made from lightweight papier mch and shaped like a cow. Aka means red, and beko is the local dialect word for cow. Akabeko's most distinctive feature is the gently bobbing head, which moves when touched. It is widely known as a symbolic decorative object often displayed as a cultural keepsake or souvenir. Each piece is hand finished by artisans, so small variations