Nearly 150 Japanese traditional dolls are on display at the Museum of the Cultures of Vietnam’s Ethnic Groups in the northern city of Thai Nguyen as part of activities to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties and greet International Children’s Day on June 1.

The exhibition, open from May 28 to June 30, introduces Edo-Kimekomi dolls and some other types of dolls used in the Baby Girl Festival, known as Hina Matsuri.
 
It has attracted many local visitors who want to enjoy Japanese heritage and culture through skillfully made traditional dolls.

Several sub-activities will highlight the event such as Origami art performance, and Kinomo and Yukata Try-on, which give visitors a real experience of Japanese culture. Visitors can also join a class to learn how to make traditional dolls organised by the Sachiei Doll Association.

Dolls have been a part of everyday life in Japan since ancient times. They reflect the customs of Japan and the aspirations of its people, possess distinctive regional attitudes, and over the centuries have developed in many diverse forms.

Kimekomi dolls, which are made of willow-wood and decorated with cloth scraps, were first made in the Japanese ancient capital, Kyoto , in the 17th century. The hand-made dolls are believed to drive away devils and disease while protecting old people and children.-VNA