A Kokeshi Doll is a type of traditional wooden doll. It was thought to have emerged during the Nara Period around the 8th century but became popular in the Edo Period around the 16th century as a common gift from the hot springs community deep within the mountains of Miyagi Prefecture. Now, Kokeshi Dolls are considered the ideal gift for any occasion. Even after 5 generations, each Kokeshi Doll is hand carved and painted, starting with peeling the bark of a tree by hand after letting the wood dry out for 18 months.