(VOVworld) – Hundreds of Japanese traditional dolls are on display at the Vietnamese Women’s Museum in Hanoi. This event is a curtain raiser for the Vietnam – Japan Friendship Year.

Exhibition-goers are surprised as they enter the children’s world of over 200 colorful dolls. The collection includes dolls dressed in kimonos and many others depict characters from the Noh, Kabuki, Hakata and Kokeshi performance traditions. They are all meticulously hand crafted and painted by skillful Japanese artisans. Visitors have an opportunity to learn more about Japanese culture through a range of activities - making the dolls, practicing Origami, playing Japanese folk games, and trying on Yokata, a popular costume of Japanese women in summer. Vo Duy Quoc Thai is a student of the Academy of Finance. "This is the first time I’ve visited a Japanese exhibition. It’s interesting and Japanese culture is diverse. The dolls are impressive. They are small but sophisticatedly made."

The dolls, which are elaborately hand-made, reflect Japanese people’s customs, beliefs, and aspirations since the ancient time to present. Sachei Ito, Chairwoman of Edo –Kemikomi Dolls Association, says: "The dolls have significant meaning for special events such as birthdays, and the Doll Festival. Dolls are presents for children to wish them to grow up, behave, and study well. People buy dolls to display in their homes to wish for good lucks."

Origami paper folding section has attracted a lot of visitors of different ages. With some pieces of paper, they practice folding and shaping things without cutting or tearing. 70-year old Le Thi Thanh says: "This is the first time I do paper folding. It’s difficult and requires patience. But it’s interesting. I’m making a flower using a piece of paper. Japanese people’s creativity and intelligence is amazing."

The exhibition “Japanese traditional dolls” will take place until the end of this month. Bui Thi Nga, a member of the Vietnam Women’s Union’s Executive Committee, says: "The exhibition is fascinating. The dolls are diverse. Hanoians has an opportunity to know more about Japan from small things such as dolls and games. It has enhanced mutual understanding for further development."

Cao Le Quyen