Things I didn't try early on: Kokeshi collecting (and making!)

Some of my most cherished possessions are my kokeshi dolls that I've collected over my time here, but it took me a while (a few years!) to start collecting them. My obsession started on a trip to Gunma Prefecture, where I actually got to make my own and see a whole bunch of cool kokeshi types at the Usaburo Kokeshi Factory.

Kokeshi for sale 

I went there with a couple of fellow expat friends, and it was honestly so much fun getting to make our own kokeshi. We're not experts by any means, but I do think our efforts (pictured below) turned out pretty good!

This is another traditional handicraft that I really feel is fun to experience for yourself. Similar to my experience with kamakurabori, I also think getting to try out kokeshi making gave me a whole new appreciation for how skilled the experts at their craft are.