I made Akabeko's plastic model "Bekopla", which has been a hot topic in some areas! [Fukushima Prefecture]

were buzzing about the release of a plastic model of Akabeko, a traditional craft from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture

Tohoku Rokken Trivia Media NEFT

Why was the traditional craft "Akabeko" born? Explore the origin and history! [Fukushima Prefecture]

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

Akabeko is a traditional craft known for its adorable swaying neck. Many people are familiar with its distinctive appearance and name. However, few can answer questions like, "Why is it called Akabeko?" and "How did Akabeko come into being?" So, this time, we'll explain the origin and history of the Akabeko, a famous Fukushima Prefecture. What does the "beko" in Akabeko mean? The "beko" in Akabeko means cow in the Aizu dialect. It's called Akabeko because it looks like a red cow. Akabeko is more than just a folk craft! What is its role? In recent years, Akabeko have appeared in colors other than red...

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I was planning to go to Aizuwakamatsu City to see the Aizu Festival, so I decided to buy this popular item on my way back! This time, I'd like to share with you how I made Bekopla

What is Bekopla?

As mentioned above "Bekopura" a plastic model of a red cow , and is a product developed by Furukawa Plastics in Kawahigashi-cho, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture.

This is a brand new product that was just released on September 15, 2024, and has been a hot topic in some circles on social media such as X

Where can I buy Bekopla?

Bekopura can currently be purchased at Roadside Station Bandai in Bandai Town, located in the northeastern part of Aizuwakamatsu City .

It is about a 20-minute drive from the center of Aizuwakamatsu City, and if you are using the expressway, the nearest exit is the Bandai-Kawahigashi IC on the Ban'etsu Expressway

It was a rather unique roadside station, with a wide selection of outdoor equipment and clothing, perhaps because it served as a base for climbing Mt. Bandai

Bekopla had a dedicated sales space, and several finished product samples were on display. I thought the price of 1,450 yen was a little high, but since it was only available for a limited time, I didn't hesitate to buy one!

Bandai Roadside Station <Information>

• Name: Roadside Station Bandai
• Address: 38 Bandai Juodo, Bandai-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture, 969-3301
• Phone number: 0242-74-1091
• Official URL: https://www.m-bandai.com/

Google Map

I immediately tried making Bekopla!

All the pens, sandpaper, paint markers, etc. used in the production were purchased at a certain 100 yen shop. By the way, I am a complete beginner when it comes to making plastic models, so please be kind to me..

The contents of the Bekopura package are as follows:

The plastic model itself is a very simple design, with just the top and bottom pieces glued together. It also comes with a sign that says "Akabeko." The deep, muted red color exudes a mysterious sense of luxury, which is a nice touch

The back of the instruction manual contains detailed instructions on how to make it

I immediately separated the parts with pliers. According to the manual, PET resin is prone to cracking, so I cut it leaving the connecting parts longer

Next is sanding to clean up the joints

Now it's time to start coloring. I used black, white, and gold oil-based paint markers. I prepared two types of markers for the black and white, one thick and one thin, just in case I needed to paint in small increments

Progress so far. ...Is it going well? If the eyes are successful, it's pretty much a success. And..

Here's the finished product! I thought about making something more unique, but this time I went for a more traditional Akabeko. I think it turned out pretty well. The gold I added spontaneously adds a nice touch

summary

The size of Bekopura is approximately 15cm long, 6cm wide and 8cm high, which is equivalent to a size 3 Akabeko in terms of standard size. It is neither too small nor too big, making it just the right size for display

Bekopla allows you to experience painting Akabeko in the comfort of your own home. Online sales will begin in October, so if you're interested, be sure to give it a try!

Bekopla <Information>

• Sales company: Furukawa Plastics
• Address: 8 Kanedamuramae, Kawahigashi-cho, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, 969-3462
• Phone number: 0242-75-4735
• Official URL: Furukawa Plastics official website

Aoiwa

Traveling around the Tohoku region, I enjoy drinking delicious sake and exploring the local history, traditions, and customs. I write articles based on my interests. I'm currently interested in folk performing arts, local toys, and folk beliefs.