[Fukushima Prefecture] I made a plastic model of Akabeko, “Bekopura”, which is a hot topic in some areas!

there was talk on news sites and social media about the release of a plastic model of Akabeko, a traditional craft from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture

Tohoku Rokken trivia media: NEFT

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[Fukushima Prefecture] Why was the traditional craft “Akabeko” created? Explore the origin and history!

https://jp.neft.asia/archives/9894

Akabeko is a traditional craft with an adorable swaying neck. Many people may know it because of its distinctive appearance and name. However, there are probably very few people who can answer questions such as ``Why is it called Akabeko?'' and ``Why was Akabeko born?'' Therefore, this time we will explain the origin and history of Akabeko, which is famous in Fukushima Prefecture. What does “beko” in Akabeko mean? ``Beko'' in Akabeko refers to cow in the dialect of the Aizu region. It is called Red Beko because it looks like a red cow. Akabeko is not just a folk craft! What is its role? In recent years, Akabeko in colors other than red have appeared...

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This time, I was planning to go to Aizuwakamatsu City to see the Aizu Festival, so I bought this popular item on the way back! This time, I will tell you about the production process of Bekopura

What is Bekopura?

As mentioned above, ``Bekopura'' ``Akabeko plastic model,'' and it is a product developed by Furukawa Plastics in Kawato-cho, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture.

It is a freshly made product that just went on sale on September 15, 2024, and has become a hot topic in some circles on SNS such as X.

Where can I buy Bekopura?

Bekopura can currently be purchased at Roadside Station Bandai .

It can be accessed in about 20 minutes by car from the center of Aizuwakamatsu City, and when using the expressway, the nearest exit is the Bandai Kawahigashi IC on the Ban-etsu Expressway.

Perhaps because it is a base for climbing Mt. Bandai, it was a very unique roadside station with a wide variety of outdoor goods and clothing.

Bekopura had a dedicated sales space, and some samples of finished products were also on display. Is the price a little high at 1,450 yen? I thought so, but since it was on sale for a limited time, I decided to buy it without hesitation!

Roadside Station Bandai <Information>

• Name: Roadside station Bandai
• Address: 38- Bandai Juo-do, Bandai-cho, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-3301
• Phone number: 0242-74-1091
• Official URL: https://www.m-bandai.com/

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I tried making Bekopura right away!

All the pens, files, paint markers, etc. used in the production were obtained from a certain 100 yen shop. By the way, I'm a complete beginner in making plastic models, so please watch over me with an open mind...

The package contents of Bekopura are as follows.

The plastic model itself is very simple, just attach the top and bottom together. There is also a signboard that says ``Akabeko''. The deep, calming red color gives it a mysterious sense of luxury.

The back of the instruction manual has detailed production instructions.

Immediately separate the parts with nippers. According to the instructions, PET resin breaks easily, so leave the connection part long when cutting.

Next is sanding. Clean the connections.

And finally, the coloring work. I used black, white, and gold permanent paint markers. Is there any detailed coloring for black and white? There are two types available: thick and thin.

Progress on the way. …How is everything going? If your eyes are successful, you've almost succeeded. and…

Here is the finished product! I thought about making some unusual pieces, but this time I decided to stick to traditional Akabeko. Isn't it a pretty good result? The gold that I prepared on a whim gives it a nice flavor.

summary

The size of Bekopura is about 15cm long, 6cm wide, and 8cm high, and compared to the standard size of Akabeko, it is the same size as a size 3, so it is not too small or too big, and it is perfect for decorating. It's just the right size.

At Bekopura, you can easily try painting Akabeko at home. It seems that online sales will start from October, so if you are interested, please give it a try!

Bekopura＜Information＞

• Sales company: Furukawa Plastic
• Address: 8 Kanedamuramae, Kawato-cho, Aizuwakamatsu-shi, Fukushima 969-3462
• Phone number: 0242-75-4735
• Official URL: Furukawa Plastic official website