Hariko Tora (Tai Folk Crafts)

A unique take on an adorable traditional craft

Hariko Tora, or paper-mache tigers, have a long history in Western Kagawa. Traditionally, they were seen as good luck charms; having one in your home would increase the likelihood of your children growing up healthy. Now, hariko tora are officially recognized by the prefecture as a traditional Kagawan craft, and modern craftspeople take its preservation seriously, continuing to handmake each one using period-accurate paper.

Between the two shops in Mitoyo producing hariko tora, Tai Folk Crafts certainly has the more unique designs. The pattern of stripes on the face is closer to a human face than a realistic tiger's. Sizes range from 120cm (47in) to 12cm (4.7in) and keychains and phone charms. Customers looking for an even more unique design can sign up to paint their own (must reserve 10 days in advance, prices start at ¥2,000, see below.)

◆What are Hariko Tora?◆
The use of tiger figures as good-luck charms or wards against misfortune originated in China. In China, tigers are known for their strength and bravery, but also for their strong parent-child bonds. They are said to be an animal that harmoniously contains both strength and softness. When this mythos became known in Japan, the practice of creating hariko tora came with it. Tiger decorations were used as a symbol of the desire for children to grow up healthy both on Boy's Day (May 5th, now called Children's Day) and on Hassaku (the beginning of the 8th lunar month, August 1st on the Gregorian calendar).

• Create your own design!
• Many sizes including the small Mame Tora

Address

426-6 Shimo Takase, Mino-cho, Mitoyo, Kagawa (香川県三豊市三野町下高瀬426-6)

Phone

0875-72-4978 (Jpn Only)

Hours

9:00am - noon ,1:30 pm - 5:00pm

Closed

Weekends & Holidays (Weekend and holiday dates available with reservation)

Website

http://www.taimingei.com/

Additional
Information

【Paint Your Own Hariko Tora】
Reservations must be made at least 10 days in advance.
Price: Starting at ¥2,000
Duration: About 90 minutes
Guests will be decorating a 12-centimeter Mame Tora