Shaping Prayers into Dolls: A Dollmaker's New Challenge

We will begin accepting reservations once the dates for available experiences are confirmed.

・Theme

Craftsmanship, Culture

・Details

• View the displayed doll artworks at Gallery Kaigeido.
• Receive a special doll artwork as a gift.

・Travel Designer's Comment

In 2023, a new gallery designed by an up-and-coming architect opened in the residential area of Sakurazaka. The building stands out in its surroundings.

Upon entering through the heavy glass doors, guests are greeted by the captivating doll artworks created by the father and son duo, Shinkyo Nakamura and Hiromine Nakamura.

Shinkyo Nakamura, a third-generation artist, has a notable piece depicting the Japanese Tensho embassy to Europe from the late 16th century. He traveled to Portugal, retracing the steps of the embassy, and created dolls that encapsulate the sentiments of the young envoys. His works have been presented to successive Popes in Rome. Recently, he completed a statue of Osamu Takaba, a cross-dressing female doctor who nurtured patriots during the Meiji era, at Sofukuji Temple in Hakata. This statue is also a must-see if time permits.

Hiromine Nakamura, a fourth-generation artist, creates innovative dolls depicting sports figures and workers. His works feature characters like Godzilla and Momotaro, all of which are vividly colored and meticulously crafted, commanding a strong presence. His pieces have been exhibited in London and New York. A giant doll of a "Daimyo's Great Komainu" created by him lies in Hakata Tenjin's Garden City, beloved by children.

The parent and child doll makers cherish the local festivals and are also involved in creating dolls for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. While being rooted in Hakata, they are promoting the charm of Hakata dolls to the world.

・Schedule (Up to 60 minutes)

• Viewing the artworks in the gallery
• Presentation of the gift (planned)

・Fee

From 20,000 yen (planned)

・Fee Includes

Special doll artwork (planned)

・Number of Participants

2 to 6 people

・Meeting Time and Place

Please arrive at the designated location about 10 minutes before your reservation time. The tour starts and ends at the site.

・Location

Kaigeido, 1-10-46 Sakurazaka, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 810-0024

・Access

8-minute walk from Sakurazaka Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Nanakuma Line

・Website

Nakamura Ningyo

・Available Days

Reservations are accepted on weekdays from Monday to Friday, excluding Wednesdays and weekends, between 1 PM and 3 PM.

・Options

Please inform us if you wish to visit outdoor Nakamura doll artworks.

・Cancellation Policy

No cancellation policy applies.

・What to Bring

Nothing in particular

・Clothing

No specific requirements

・Payment Method

Advance payment by credit card or other methods

・Participation Conditions

Please contact us if you require the use of a vehicle.

・Reservation Period

From 2 months to 7 days before the tour date

・Disclaimer

In case of unavoidable circumstances leading to cancellation or changes in the tour content, we will process a refund promptly. Please understand.

・Other Information

There is a dedicated parking lot.
Photography is allowed during the experience.
Please check in advance for foreign language support.