Tai mingei
"Hariko Tiger with Antique Calligraphy Finish" — A Folk Craft Loved as Interior Decor
The Hariko Tiger with Antique Calligraphy Finish was created as a piece of folk craft that can be cherished as part of home interior décor. The base of this tiger is made from plain washi paper, onto which fragments of beautifully brushed calligraphy—originally penned by predecessors—are carefully arranged to resemble tiger stripes.
During the production process, white washi paper is layered and glued onto molds for the head, body, legs, and tail. For the final layer, antique washi paper featuring calligraphy written between the late Edo and early Meiji periods is selected and applied in a way that the brushstrokes form elegant tiger-like patterns. The molded parts are then joined together using animal glue (nikawa), and horsehair whiskers are added. A weight is inserted into the base of the head to allow the neck to gently sway, completing the piece with its signature animated motion.
The Hariko Tiger has long been cherished as a lucky charm, particularly for the Boys’ Festival (Tango no Sekku), where it symbolizes a prayer for boys to grow up strong and healthy—drawing inspiration from the bravery of the tiger, the “king of beasts.”
The History and Legacy of Tai Ningyo-ten
Tai Ningyo-ten (Tai Doll Workshop) was established in the early Meiji era, initially producing Ichimatsu dolls, Hariko Tigers, and other traditional seasonal ornaments. As demand for Ichimatsu dolls declined, the workshop shifted its focus to Hariko Tigers, and in 1971 (Shōwa 46), the shop name was changed to Tai Mingei.
In 1985 (Shōwa 60), Kagawa Prefecture established the “Traditional Crafts of Kagawa” designation system. Hariko Tigerwas among the first 23 crafts selected for designation. At that time, Tai Kiyomi (4th generation) was officially registered as a maker and was honored with a commendation by the governor of Kagawa Prefecture for “his outstanding contributions to the preservation and transmission of local folk craft through years of dedication to the techniques of Hariko Tiger making.”
In 1993 (Heisei 5), when the Emperor of Japan visited Kagawa Prefecture, he observed a live demonstration of Hariko Tiger production by Tai Kiyomi at the Shoko Shoreikan in Ritsurin Garden.
The following year, in 1994 (Heisei 6), the Kagawa Traditional Craftsperson Certification system was established, and Tai Kiyomi was recognized as a certified traditional craftsperson.
The 5th generation, Tai Tsuyako, began learning the craft under her predecessor in 1969 (Shōwa 44).
Her achievements were recognized in 2006 (Heisei 18) when she too was certified as a traditional craftsperson of Kagawa.
In 2020 (Reiwa 2), she received the Kagawa Prefectural Governor's Award, just like her predecessor, for her contributions to preserving the craft.
To ensure the craft is passed down to future generations, she actively holds educational workshops on painting Hariko Tigers at local kindergartens, elementary and junior high schools across the prefecture, thereby fostering awareness and appreciation for traditional Japanese crafts.
The Cultural Roots of the Hariko Tiger
The Hariko Tiger is believed to have originated in Japan following the introduction of tiger worship traditions from China. In particular, the Nishisan region of Kagawa Prefecture—stretching from Marugame to Kanonji—has a long tradition of using Hariko Tigers as festive ornaments during Boys’ Festival (Tango no Sekku) and Hassaku Festival. Their use reflects prayers for children's strength and healthy growth, inspired by the tiger’s legendary bravery.
With their upright whiskers and bobbing heads, Hariko Tigers have a humorous and lovable appearance. They are not only used for traditional seasonal celebrations but are also appreciated as folk toys, auspicious gifts for newborns, or symbols of prosperity and success in business.
Tigers have long been revered as fierce and courageous creatures, and Hariko Tigers are displayed in hopes that boys will grow up to be strong and resilient like them.
• 1985: Hariko Tiger designated as one of the first Traditional Crafts of Kagawa Prefecture
• 1993: The late Tai Kiyomi presented a live demonstration of Hariko Tiger making for the Emperor at Ritsurin Garden
• 1994: Tai Kiyomi certified as a Traditional Craftsperson of Kagawa
• 2007: 5th generation Tai Tsuyako certified as a Traditional Craftsperson of Kagawa
• 2020: Tai Tsuyako received the Kagawa Prefectural Governor’s Award for her achievements in preserving and transmitting traditional crafts