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

Akabeko is a traditional craft with a cute swaying neck. Many people may know it because of its distinctive appearance and name.

However, there are probably 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, and their cute appearance has attracted attention, but they are actually more than just ornaments. Akabeko is a folk craft with the meaning of ``prayers for good health'' and ``warding off evil diseases.''

They probably hoped that by keeping Akabeko with them, people would have peace of mind and good health.

Why was Akabeko born? Get closer to the origin!

Why did akabeko, which prayed for peace, originate in the Aizu region and become a traditional craft?

From here, I will introduce two popular theories about the origin of akabeko.

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

The first theory is that it was passed down to a red-haired cow that was active during a major earthquake 1,200 years ago. When the Aizu Yanagi Enzoji Temple was destroyed in the earthquake, many of the cows used to transport it collapsed, but the red-haired cow continued to work until the end.

It is said to be shaped like a red-haired cow, and since ancient times, when a child is born, a papier-mâché paper named Akabeko has been sent with the hope that the baby will be strong and healthy like the red-haired Beko.

Origin ② Cows that protected against smallpox

The second theory is that it was a smallpox toy meant to protect lives from smallpox. In the old days, when medicine was not developed, smallpox was a natural enemy that took away people's lives.

Since the mortality rate was especially high when children contracted smallpox, it is said that they tried to prevent the disease by placing bright red toys that the god of smallpox seemed to like. It is said that the black spots on the akabeko pattern are meant to represent smallpox.

Recommended spots to get to know Akabeko

In the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, there are spots where you can learn more about Akabeko. This time, we will introduce three selected places, so why not go there while sightseeing?

Aizu Machikata Folklore Museum

With the theme of "seeing," "knowing," and "gathering," this is a facility where you can tour 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 Owari Koboshi, and you can make your own for 1,100 yen per person for Akabeko and 440 yen for Owari Koboshi, so it is also recommended as a souvenir.

INFORMATION

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

GOOGLE MAP

Nozawa folk art

Nozawa Folk Crafts is a workshop that continues to produce traditional crafts in Aizu. We make beautiful and cute crafts one by one by hand, such as Akabeko of various sizes, ``Fukubeko'', and ``Senryobeko''.

Akabeko New Year Decoration Nozawa Folk Crafts
Nozawa Folk Crafts Akabeko New Year Decorations

You can purchase directly from the workshop, so it's fun to choose an Akabeko with the facial features you like.

INFORMATION

  • Name: Nozawa Folk Crafts
  • Address: 2704-2 Nozawauehara Shimotsu, Nishiaizu-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture
  • Business hours: 8:00-17:00 (closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
  • Phone number: 0241-45-3129
  • URL: https://nozawa-mingei.com/index.html

GOOGLE MAP

Akabeko Park

Akabeko Park in Kamisashi, Aizuwakamatsu City has playground equipment with Akabeko motifs in various places. Among them, the one that stands out is the Akabeko Slide in the center of the park. You can actually slide through Akabeko's body through its butt.

Akabeko Park

There is also an akabeko-shaped drinking fountain, which is a great spot for not only playing, but also for posting on social media.

INFORMATION

  • Name: Akabeko Park
  • Address: 163-12 Hojo, Takaku, Kamizashi-cho, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture　
  • Phone number: 0242-39-1275
  • URL: Aizuwakamatsu City homepage

GOOGLE MAP

Akabeko was a historical talisman.

This time, we mainly introduced the history of Fukushima Prefecture's traditional craft, ``Akabeko.'' The appearance and color of Akabeko are a toy that symbolizes prayers for good health and warding off evil diseases.

If you look at it after knowing its meaning, you might find it even more adorable. If you are interested, please actually pick up Akabeko and look at it.

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