Nara souvenir special feature
Focus on Nara’s trending souvenirs in recent years
Nara is not widely known, but it is the birthplace of ink sticks and brushes.
Ancient brushes and ink sticks are preserved in the Shosoin Repository.
Because of Nara’s long history, its makers have created many products that could only be made there.
This season, we are introducing items perfect as cute souvenirs or gifts, such as products that recreate “ancient ink” and “auspicious brushes” once used in rituals.
Yamato Ink Doll -Bokuundo-
This is a doll-shaped ink modeled after government officials and court ladies who likely walked the ancient streets of Nara more than 1,200 years ago, and it was produced until before World War II.
The vivid colors of the doll’s clothing bring to mind the capital city of Nara.
Its warm and gentle expression is also quite charming.
Since the faces and clothing are all hand-painted, no two are exactly the same. They are also recommended as decorative pieces to enjoy on display.
Ink as a Craft Perfect for Gifts
The Yamato Ink Dolls from Bokuundo are entirely hand-painted, with a unique texture and a design that shines as a decorative item.
They are packaged in a paulownia wood box, giving them a luxurious feel, making them ideal as gifts.
Ancient Ink 1.7-chogata Reproduced from the Past -Bokuundo-
All 15 ink sticks preserved in the Shosoin are of this boat-shaped form.
In addition, ink excavated in Nara was also found in the same shape, so it is believed that in those times, “ink” generally referred to boat-shaped sticks.
Here is a product that reproduces this shape filled with the romance of ancient people.
Why not present it along with the story: “In the old days, ink was boat-shaped, which is why it is counted as one ‘cho’”?
The Golden Shibi (Roof Ornament) of Nara’s Todaiji Temple as a Motif
Todaiji Shibi Ink -Kuretake-
This ink, featuring the golden shibi (roof ornament) of Nara’s Todaiji Temple as a motif, is incredibly striking and highly popular.
The shibi is a roof ornament said to have been introduced from the Tang dynasty of China during the Asuka period, along with the spread of roof tiles in the Asuka and Nara periods.
By the Muromachi period, it had evolved into the shachihoko, making this form unique to the Nara period.
As a lucky motif said to ward off fire, it also makes an excellent gift.
Nara Doll Ink Set -Kuretake-
This set features standing hina dolls from Nara’s traditional craft, “Itto-bori” (single-knife carving), created entirely from ink.
Each kimono is hand-painted with beautifully vibrant patterns.
The pair of dolls, standing 12–15 cm tall, make for elegant interior decorations during the Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Festival) season.
We highly recommend this as a souvenir from Nara.
