Hakata doll figurine representing an older couple looking at each other. The woman is standing, carrying a bundle, and the man is kneeling, holding a geta.

Hakata ningyō, unglazed ceramic dolls, were exclusively made on the southern island of Kyushu, in the town of Fukuoka, and known for being some of the most delicately made Japanese clay figurines. They portray a diverse range of subjects, from graceful women, elders and children to iconic characters from Japan's traditional Kabuki and Noh theater. In contrast to most clay dolls in Japan, which are made using a single, two-part mold, Hakata dolls’ hands, fingers, and other fine parts are sculpted separately and then attached to the figures. This is what allows them to be so intricately expressive.
Their popularity expanded internationally in the mid-20th century, particularly after the Second World War, when American soldiers stationed in Japan brought them home as evocative souvenirs of Japanese artistry.