How did the traditional craft "Akabeko" come about? Exploring its origins and history! [Fukushima Prefecture]

Akabeko is a traditional craft with a cute, swaying neck. Many people are familiar with its distinctive appearance and name

However, there are probably not many people who can answer questions such as "Why is it called Akabeko?" and "Why was Akabeko created?" So, this time we will explain the origin and history of Akabeko, which is famous in Fukushima Prefecture

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What does the "beko" in Akabeko mean?

The "beko" in Akabeko means cow in the Aizu dialect. It is called Akabeko because it looks like a red cow

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Akabeko is not just a folk craft! What is its role?

In recent years, Akabeko have appeared in colors other than red, and their cute appearance has attracted attention, but they are actually more than just ornaments

Akabeko is a folk craft that is imbued with the meanings of "prayer for good health" and "protection from evil and disease."

By having Akabeko, people hoped that peace of mind and good health would come to them

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Why was Akabeko born? Find out its origins!

Why did Akabeko, a doll that prays for peace, originate in the Aizu region and become a traditional craft?

From here, we will introduce two popular theories about the origin of Akabeko

Origin ① Cows that played an active role during the great earthquake

The first theory is it is named after a red-haired cow that played an important role during a major earthquake 1,200 years ago .

When Enzoji Temple in Aizu-Yanaizu, which was destroyed in the earthquake, was being restored, many of the oxen used to transport timber collapsed, but it was the red-haired ox that continued to work until the end

In imitation of the red-haired cow, since ancient times, when a child is born, people have sent a papier-mâché doll named Akabeko with the hope that the child will be as strong and healthy as the red-haired cow

Origin 2: Cows that prevented smallpox

The second theory is it was a toy to protect people from smallpox . In the past, when medical care was not yet developed, smallpox was a deadly disease.

Since the mortality rate of smallpox was particularly high among children, people are said to have tried to prevent the disease by placing bright red toys that the smallpox god would like. It is also said that the black spots on the Akabeko's pattern may be a reference to smallpox

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Recommended spots to learn about Akabeko

In the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, there are spots where you can learn more about Akabeko. We've picked out three places to introduce, so why not visit them while you're sightseeing?

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Aizu Machikata Heritage Museum

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With the themes of "seeing," "knowing," and "gathering," this facility allows visitors to see traditional crafts from the Aizu region, including Akabeko, Aizu lacquerware, and Aizu cotton

There is also a corner where you can try painting Akabeko and Okiagari Koboshi dolls, and you can create your own original Akabeko and Okiagari Koboshi dolls for 1,100 yen and 440 yen per person, respectively, so they are also recommended as souvenirs

Aizu Machikata Tradition Museum <Information>

• Name: Aizu Machikata Tradition Museum
• Address: 2-8-8 Omachi, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture
• Business hours: 9:00-18:00
• Phone number: 0242-22-8686
• Official URL: Aizu Machikata Denshokan website

Google Map

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Nozawa Folk Crafts

Nozawa Folk Crafts is a workshop that continues to create traditional crafts in the Aizu region. They handcraft each and every beautiful and adorable item, including Akabeko dolls of various sizes, Fukubeko dolls, and Senryobeko dolls

You can purchase them directly at the workshop, so it's fun to choose an Akabeko with a face that you like

Nozawa Folk Crafts <Information>

• Name: Aizu Hariko Nozawa Folk Crafts
• Address: 2704-2 Nozawauehara Shimo Otsu, Nishiaizu-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture
• Business hours: 8:00-17:00 (closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
• Phone number: 0241-45-3129
• Official URL: Nozawa Folk Crafts Homepage

Google Map

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Akabeko Park

Akabeko Park in Kamisashi, Aizuwakamatsu City, has Akabeko-themed play equipment in various locations. Among them, the most eye-catching is the Akabeko Slide in the center of the park. You can slide down the Akabeko's body and buttocks

There is also an Akabeko-shaped drinking fountain, making it a great spot for playing and also a great photo spot for social media

Akabeko Park <Information>

• Name: Akabeko Park
• Address: 163-12 Hojo, Takaku, Kamisashicho, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture　
• Phone number: 0242-39-1275
• Official URL: Aizuwakamatsu City website

Google Map

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Akabeko was a charm with a long history

This time, we focused on the history of Akabeko, a traditional craft of Fukushima Prefecture. Akabeko is a toy whose appearance and coloring represent prayers for good health and protection from illness

Once you understand the meaning, you may find them even more adorable. If you're interested, try picking up an Akabeko and looking at it for yourself

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