Matagoro 9th Generation Kiyomi Yashima (c) Manami Okazaki; Japanese Kokeshi Dolls"

About👤

About 300 years ago Matagorō was a craftsman devoted to the production of kokeshi dolls made from Akita cedar (Akita-sugi). From an early stage, he personally entered the mountains to select suitable cedar logs and devoted himself to the study of their properties. 

Cedar, being a soft and delicate wood, was traditionally considered difficult to use for kokeshi due to its tendency to warp, crack, or age unevenly. Through extensive experimentation and skillful refinement, Matagorō succeeded in developing a new manufacturing method that allowed cedar to be carved and finished in a stable and enduring form suitable for kokeshi dolls.

This innovative technique, which preserved the natural beauty and grain of Akita cedar while ensuring structural durability, was formally recognized and registered as a patented manufacturing method.

Patent Title: Manufacturing Method for Akita Cedar Kokeshi
Patent Registration Number: 35348

Matagorō’s achievement represents an important contribution to Akita’s local craft tradition, blending technical innovation with respect for regional materials. His work received numerous awards at Akita Prefectural exhibitions and played a significant role in the development and recognition of cedar kokeshi dolls.

Generations👩‍👩‍👦‍👦

There are 9 Generations of Matagoro Kokeshi Makers. However the lineage cannot be traced through publicly available resources. Only limited information is available confirming some of the Matagoro artisans.

1. Matagoro 1st Gen
2. Goro Yahata 7th Gen
3. Yashima Chiyoji 8th Gen
4. Yashima Kiyomi 9th Gen 

The current 9th Gen, Yashima Kiyomi, has an atelier in Daisen, Akit Prefecture but is producing limited number of Kokeshi due to health challenges (2025). His Ancestors made carved masks in the Edo period (1603-1868). 

Other📑

Sources

1. Matagoro 8th Generation Kokeshi Leaflet 

2. Manami Okazaki. (2020). JAPANESE KOKESHI DOLLS : the culture and craft of japan’s iconic wooden dolls. (First Edition, pp. 168 Pages). Tuttle Publishing.