NIPPON Kichi - 日本吉

2007/1/18

赤べこ Akabeko Red Beko

Jp En


Red beko is a famous local folk toy made in Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Fukushima prefecture.

In the dialect of the Tohoku region, 'beko' means a cow, so 'red beko' is a red cow. The red is said to be effective as a talisman and red bekos are popular as bringers of good luck.

About 1200 years ago, in 807, Tokuichi Taishi built Fukuman-Kozoson in Enzoji Temple. At that time, much wood was brought from the village near the upper Tadami. But the Tadami River was so fast-flowing that the conveyance was difficult. Then, a herd of cattle came from somewhere and helped to carry the wood.

Conveying the wood was very hard, many cows could not make the journey, and only a red cow survived and kept working. The story spread and red beko became a popular gift to encourage the growth of a child and as a charm to ward off plagues.

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Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture
name
Red Beko




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