Learn about the meaning and painting of the Aizu local toy "Akabeko" as a lucky charm [Fukushima Prefecture]

Akabeko is one of Fukushima's representative local toys. Akabeko has been loved for many years as a traditional lucky charm and as a character representing Fukushima. In recent years, various goods with Akabeko motifs have been sold

In this article, we will explain the origins of Akabeko and its meaning as a lucky charm. We hope to convey the charm of Akabeko, which is both nostalgic and new

---

What is Fukushima's local toy, Akabeko?

Akabeko is a local toy from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. In the Tohoku region, "beko" means cow. As its name suggests, Akabeko is shaped like a red cow

Akabeko has long been considered a charm to ward off evil and bring good luck, but now it is also famous as a souvenir that symbolizes Fukushima Prefecture

Akabeko are characterized by their red patterns, rounded form, and swaying necks. When you poke their necks with your finger, they will continue to sway up and down as if nodding leisurely

---

What is the origin of Akabeko?

There are various theories about the origin of Akabeko, but one of them is the Akabeko legend that is passed down in Yanaizu Town, Fukushima Prefecture

A temple called Kokuzodo in Yanaizu Town was severely damaged in the great earthquake that struck the Aizu region in 1611. Many cows were gathered to rebuild the damaged main hall, but the work on the steep cliffs proved difficult

Suddenly, a herd of sturdy red-haired cows appeared out of nowhere and rescued the struggling cows. With this, the main hall was successfully rebuilt

Because of its appearance, red cows are considered to be a symbol of good health and bring good fortune, and are said to have become known by the nickname Akabeko

---

What are the wishes contained in Akabeko?

The distinctive pattern on the body of the Akabeko is said to ward off evil spirits and disease

The red of the Akabeko has long been believed to ward off illness, and the black and white patterns on its body represent the scars left after it has recovered from smallpox, an epidemic

In the past, smallpox was a deadly disease that claimed many lives all over the world. The Aizu region was no exception. To protect children from smallpox, Akabeko dolls were displayed in each home, as they would take on the disease in place of the children and cure the illness

In other words, Akabeko represents the wish for the family to stay healthy

---

Where can I buy Akabeko?

Akabeko can be purchased at craft shops and roadside stations in Fukushima Prefecture. Nishiaizu Town in particular Nozawa Folk Crafts , which accounts for 70% of Akabeko production. In addition to the regular Akabeko, Nozawa Folk Crafts produces a variety of papier-mâché toys, including vibrantly colored Beko and animal-shaped Okiagari Koboshi dolls. They also have an online shop, so why not take a look?

There are also facilities in the Aizu region where you can experience painting an Akabeko. If you visit Fukushima Prefecture, making an original Akabeko as a memento of your trip will be a wonderful memory

---

Various Akabeko goods on sale

In recent years, Akabeko has become a symbolic character of Fukushima Prefecture, and various goods are sold, including T-shirts and hats, many of which feature cute, deformed Akabeko designs

the divine beasts Beko has become a hot topic . For 300 yen per play, you can get a palm-sized figure. The Akabeko are a mix of various divine beasts from all over the world, past and present, such as Cerberus and Yamata no Orochi, and are full of easygoing cuteness and humor. They are also very popular among Fukushima residents, who can't help but want to collect them all. Gacha machines can be found at roadside stations and other locations in Fukushima, so if you come across one, be sure to get one.

---

summary

This time we introduced the Akabeko of Fukushima Prefecture. Akabeko have been loved since ancient times as lucky charms that ward off epidemics. This spirit continues to this day, with Akabeko displayed in homes with the hope that families will stay healthy. And Akabeko will continue to play an active role as a mascot representing Fukushima Prefecture. If you visit Fukushima Prefecture, be sure to check out the Akabeko goods

---