Sakurai Kokeshi

The history of Sakurai family as kokeshi makers dates back to Matagoro Onuma iin Edo period, who is believed to have been the founder of Naruko style kokeshi. In the course of its five-generation history, the family has produced several diverse and very important kokeshi craftspersons, such as Iwazo Onuma, Mannojo Sakurai, Kenzaburo Onuma, to name a few. Current generation Akihiro produces kokeshis in the styles of those predecessors, rendering them through his own expressions. This "repertoire" is one element that singles out Sakurai family, as many kokeshi studios have only one design, although variations of forms or colors might be found.

Another characteristics of Sakurai family is a unique coexistence of emphasis on tradition and experimental spirit. Following the rich veins of outstanding craftspersons, the family has always emphasized its tradition and the past, both in and out of family members. At the same time, however, Sakurai family has also been a leading innovator in the world of kokeshi, coming up with several designs which by now have become standard in kokeshi in general.