TOKYO (dpa) – Dakko-chan (Hugging Baby), which was once Japan’s most popular doll in 1960s, will be back to the Japanese market this spring, after much criticism about the controversial doll.

While the dolls can be found all over Japan, around 80% of Daruma dolls are made in Takasaki, a town in Gunma prefecture in the Kanto region, where the traditional papier-mache craft can be traced ...

While the dolls can be found all over Japan, around 80% of Daruma dolls are made in Takasaki, a town in Gunma prefecture in the Kanto region, ...

While the dolls can be found all over Japan, around 80% of Daruma dolls are made in Takasaki, a town in Gunma prefecture in the Kanto region, where the traditional papier-mache craft can be traced ...

A hidden gem In 2024, Japan saw a record 36.8 million overseas visitors, a 15% increase from pre-pandemic levels. And while Osaka is the second most popular prefecture for overnight stays, Katsuo ...