This is a Nipo-po doll, a folk toy and craft from Abashiri, Hokkaido. In the Ainu language, it means "small wooden child" or "wooden doll" and is believed to be a good luck charm. Primarily, inmates of Abashiri Prison carve each one by hand from Japanese elm wood, with the hope of rehabilitation. The material is hard and rich in lipids, and it seems that the surface develops a sheen when stored for a long time. Size: Approximately 15 cm tall and 5 cm wide. #HokkaidoAbashiri #Crafts #NipoPoDoll