We have a slightly new look with a new shopping cart. It should be a little more functional and allow our customers outside the US the ability to choose a international shipping option. If you experience any difficulty purchasing our Kokeshi dolls please contact us ASAP. Thanks and enjoy the new 2 Piece Nativity!

On September 6, 2006 Japan welcomed a new baby into the Imperial Family. Princess Kiko, the wife of Prince Akishino, the Emperor’s second son, gave birth to a boy, a long-awaited male heir to the Chrysanthemum Throne. The baby is the first male born to the Imperial family in 41 years and becomes the third in line to the throne after Crown Prince Naruhito, 46 and Prince Akishino, 40. Currently females are barred by law from ascending the throne. Following tradition, a ceremony was held on the seventh day after his birth to give him a name. In the naming ceremony, a court official put the new princes name and his symbol, the umbrella pine, on washi paper in a paulownia box and it was placed next to the babys pillow. The babys name is Hisahito. The name Hisahito is made up of the Chinese character for hisa meaning far and away and at ease, and hito, or virtuous person. The name was chosen in the hope that the little prince will live a long and comfortable life. The umbrella pine, was made his symbol so he will grow straight and tall. The baby is the fourth grandchild of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. The baby has two sisters- Princess Mako, 14 and Princess Kako, 11.