Hanakotoba — History and Meaning

If you are interested in Japanese culture and its relationship to Kimono patterns and the Kokeshi motif, discover that the prominent motifs are the flower, the plant, and the tree all appearing since the late 1800s. It is a well-known fact that visual language overlaps, which is why the Japanese are interested in the natural environment and seasonal changes. All of these are based on Buddhist teachings and their development in Japanese culture. The serenity of the Buddhist world finds its reflection in the natural environment, serving as symbols of purity, impermanence, and the cycles of life that rise and eventually fade away. These allegories in the form of stories, poems, or artistic images are intended to be communicative on topics ranging from romance to gratitude and societal ideals necessary for harmonious living.

Original Kokeshi were not made for mass production. They were made by an artist who had to express their impressions of life, and values, and for a particular purpose of collecting by a collector. Kokeshi artists rely on translation in bridging the world of pictorial language that goes beyond simple words and gestures. One form of language, in particular, known as Hanakotoba (the Japanese language of flowers), communicates by expressing emotions and intentions through individual species and divisional groupings (trees, flowers, mosses, ferns, fruit, and grains), within the natural environment. Every color and motif communicates its meaning and feeling, which can sometimes be more impactful than words alone. The special significance behind each flower lies in the symbolism and code names given to each blossom. While Hanakotoba is not the only language to attach a meaning to flowers, it is by far one of the oldest types of communication.

Gardens of Hope

So what are some of the secret messages the Kokeshi artist imparts through their work? Below are what is called Gardens of Hope representing throughout and wishes as related to popular flowers in their language and their meanings. The flower serves to communicate powerful messages, from the way they are portrayed, even down to the nature of the flowers themselves. Thank you Robert Brokop (Wood Be Kindred Spirits), for your introduction, in 1980 to, the minds of the Japanese Kokeshi Masters you interviewed in the 1970s–80s.

In many descriptions, the names of Kokeshi flowers symbolize elements surrounding humans in everyday life. These include:

The circle of life: Flowers' life cycles mirror the cyclical nature of life, from birth to withering and rebirth.
Impermanence: The idea that all things are transient and ever-changing.
Enlightenment: Many flowers, particularly the lotus flower, symbolize the potential for transformation within all living beings.
Purity & Growth: The purity of heart, mind, growth, and devotion to what one does, and the relationship between humans.
Mindfulness: Flowers can serve as a reminder to live with an awareness of others and the present moment.
Diversity: Flowers symbolize the diversity of people through their shapes, sizes, colors, and unique characteristics, which is a basis for all artistic endeavors.

Kokeshi and their associated motifs traditionally represent hopes that they would bring happiness, good luck, and bountiful harvests, but most importantly, to celebrate and record cultural beliefs. This has created an artistic movement, with many Kokeshi Dolls, including the dolls of Masters, considered works of art. Therefore, Kokeshi represents diversity in life and an expression of the importance of cultural values. Below are the major motifs inspired by the natural environment which are on the bodies of Kokeshi, as seen in Japanese Kimono fashion, and their influence by Buddhism.

Camellia (Tsubaki) Symbolism

In Japanese culture, the Camellia flower symbolizes love, loyalty, bravery, and noble death, particularly because it was traditionally tied to the Samurai class. Its sudden fall from the plant is often interpreted as representing a warrior's swift and decisive action in battle, making it a symbol of honor and sacrifice when used about fallen samurai.

It is very common to see the Camellia on Transitional and Sosaku Kokeshi because of the artists' ability to focus on beautiful graphics symbolizing the feelings of many Japanese citizens during the period of the Samurai class. Certain species of Camellia are also associated with the tea ceremony, as they are used to produce black, white, and green tea. The Japanese Camellia, particularly the large single variety in multiple colors such as white, pink, red, and occasionally yellow. They are specifically seen as a symbol of friendship. Many symbolic meanings include:

Color: A red Camellia represents a noble death, while white can signify waiting or purity.
Cultural significance: The flower is deeply ingrained in Japanese art and literature, often representing deep appreciation, admiration, and qualities that are highly esteemed in Japanese culture.
Winter bloom: As it blooms in the winter, the Camellia is directly associated with the cold season and a time of self-reflection and inner strength.

Cherry (Sakura) Symbolism

The Sakura’s meaning has always been contradictory. Cherry blossoms are a symbol of the transience of life, as they bloom for only a few weeks before falling. Many symbolic meanings include:

New Beginnings: Cherry blossoms mark the start of spring and the new fiscal year when children return to school and employees often start new jobs.
Nature: Cherry blossoms are a central motif in the Japanese worship of nature.
Honor and courage: Cherry blossoms were historically associated with the Samurai, who lived by a strict moral code of honor, respect, discipline, and living life to the fullest.
Birth and death: Cherry blossoms symbolize life, death, beauty, and violence.
The Warrior (bushi): The Japanese proverb 'Hana wa sakuraigi, hit wa bushi' literally means, “the (best) blossom is the cherry blossom, the (best) man is the warrior”.

Chrysanthemum (Kiku) Symbolism

The Chrysanthemum represents longevity, rejuvenation, and nobility in Japan. It is also the symbol of autumn, harvest, and goodwill. Because of its auspicious meaning, the flower frequently appears on Kokeshi and Kimono, depicted in great detail and vibrant color on the body of the doll.

The Chrysanthemum has many symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, including:

Longevity: The chrysanthemum symbolizes living a healthier life. Longevity is a state of being when a person lives beyond their average life expectancy.
Nobility: People of the highest social rank in a society and considered a group.
Autumn: The chrysanthemum represents the season of autumn and is often depicted in seasonal art and poetry, and also well as harvest, Goodwill, and Sun and light.

Daisy (Deiji) Symbolism

In Japanese culture, the Daisy symbolizes "beauty," "peace," and "hope," according to the "hanakotoba" (flower language). It is often associated with healing and transformation due to its simple, cheerful appearance, making it a favored flower among those with a youthful optimistic spirit.

Kokeshi artists incorporating this motif emphasize the daisy’s natural, random beauty. The flower is particularly popular in pieces aimed at younger people, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Its enduring popularity across various art forms, including tattoos, reflects its role as a symbol of significant transformation and its timeless appeal.

Positive connotations: Daisies are generally seen as a positive symbol, representing cheerful optimism and a sense of well-being.
Innocence and youthfulness: The simple, unassuming nature of the daisy aligns with the concept of innocence, youthful vitality, and new beginnings.
Secret love: Trust and honesty
Hanakotoba: In the traditional Japanese flower language, “Hanakotoba”, the daisy carries the meanings of “beauty“, Peace”, and “hope” and is favored and given to those who are innocent.

Autumn Leaves (Koyo) Symbolism

In Japan, Autumn leaves, often referred to as “koyo”, hold immense cultural significance. They symbolize a time of beauty and contemplation, aligning with the Japanese appreciation for nature’s transient beauty. The act of seeking out autumn foliage, called momijigari ,(literally “red leaf hunting”) is a cherished tradition and a key part of the nation’s cultural history.

Many Kokeshi artists incorporate beautiful interpretations of colorful autumn leaves on their dolls, reflecting the fleeting nature of life—a concept deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy. Autumn leaves hold deep symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, including:

Awe and reverence: In ancient Japan, Shinto beliefs held that spirits inhabited nature and the changing of leaves inspired awe and reverence.
A time for contemplation: Koyo is a time to stop and admire the beauty of nature, and to reflect on the changing seasons.
A historical connection: The tradition of appreciating autumn leaves began during Japan’s Heian period.
A Pilgrimage: Since the eighth century, Japanese people have made annual pilgrimages to mountains, gorges, and temples to enjoy the changing leaves.
A graphic motif: Autumn colors are used in many ways, including in kimono, yukatas, kokeshi, hand fans, Shoji screens, and Byobu room dividers.
An autumn culinary treat: Momiji tempura is a dish made from maple leaves that are fried in tempura batter.
A symbol in art: Maple leaves are often paired with a deer in paintings and other art forms to represent a good pairing.

Star Jasmine (Teika-Kadzura) Symbolism

Jasmine symbolizes compassion, empathy, and kindness. Its delicate fragrance is said to elevate the mind and spirit, serving as a reminder to act with kindness and mindfulness. The Jasmine flower holds deep symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, including:

Love and auspicious beginnings: often featured in weddings and ceremonies, symbolizing a new venture and rebirth.
Simplicity, humility, and amiability: Values prevalent throughout Asian cultures.
Nature: Touching a flower serves as a reminder of humanity’s connection to the natural world.
A symbol of life and awareness: Reflecting the importance of a healthy natural environment.
Royalty, elegance, and luxury: Purple jasmine flowers are associated with opulence and sophistication.

Lily (Yuri) Symbolism

Called "Yuri" in Japan, the lily symbolizes purity, renewal, and rebirth. Its pure white petals signify innocence, while its intoxicating fragrance hints at a passionate nature. The lily is often associated with Buddhist teachings of enlightenment and the impermanence of life. In Japanese culture, the lily holds many symbolic meanings, including:

Purity: Represents innocence and a clean heart.
Renewal and rebirth: Associated with starting anew and transformation.
Spiritual enlightenment: Tied to Buddhist teachings and the understanding of life’s impermanence.
Passionate nature: The lily's fragrance evokes emotion and desire.
Passion and fragrance: The strong scent of the lily is directly associated with passion and deep emotion.
Buddhist connection: Lilies are often seen near temples and shrines, symbolizing spiritual concepts and creating a physical link with the Bushiest community.
Ceremonial use: lilies are used in various ceremonies, including weddings to convey joy and purity, and funerals to express solemnity and remembrance.
Kokeshi connection: The lily is frequently associated with the departure of a loved one. Lily-themed Kokeshi dolls are often gifted as a remembrance and are commonly placed near home altars to honor the memory of the departed.

Morning Glory (Asago) Symbolism

In Japanese culture, the Morning Glory symbolizes the fleeting beauty of summer, representing the transient nature of life. With its short blooming period, the flower opens at dawn and closes at dusk. The Morning Glory is also associated with community ties, especially when exchanged between young people. The Morning Glory has many symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, including:

The fleeting beauty of summer: represents the transient nature of life.
Ephemeral beauty: A symbol of innocent love.
The concept of a transient lifestyle: This concept is deeply ingrained in the Japanese psyche of the youth.
Historical significance: During the Edo period, cultivating different varieties of morning glories became a popular pastime, leading to a strong cultural association with the flower amongst Ikebana specialists.

Nuts (Nattsu) Symbolism

Nuts have had a significant role in Japanese history, culture, and food throughout the history of Japan. Chestnuts (Kuri), have always been a staple food in prehistoric Japan and were cultivated as early as the Jomon Period, more than 5,500 years ago. Every Autumn and New Year's, chestnuts are celebrated and in Japan’s cuisine, sold on every town street corner. Walnuts are revered in Japan and can be found near temples. They have been so important that several Kokeshi artists have featured them as the major motif on their dolls during the fall/winter season.

The Nut has many symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, including:

Religious beliefs: Resilience and hope.
Healthy lifestyle: Longevity and good luck of the Japanese people
Art and design: Foster's inspiration in the design of Japanese textiles and architecture.

Orchid (Ran) Symbolism

In Japan and on Kokeshi, Orchids symbolize beauty, elegance, and luxury, and are often given as gifts for special occasions. They are also associated with noble individuals, luxurious lifestyles, power, strength, and refinement. Orchids are considered a disciplined art form deeply rooted in Zen philosophy.

The Orchid has many symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, including:

Fertility: Orchids are connected to fertility, which translates to good fortune in life and business. Most often these Kokeshi are given to the bride at her wedding.
Transient nature of life: Orchids are often associated with the Japanese concept of “mono no aware”, which emphasizes the appreciation of the impermanence of all life.
Mindfulness and the Seasons: Orchids are frequently used in Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging.
Cultural Values: Orchids are a rare blooming with the ability to survive and thrive in habitats that range from exotic to plains and mountains. In Japan, you’ll find orchids in many homes and offices and they believe this wonderful flower is sure to bring good fortune, in their everyday personal and business lives.

Peony (Botan) Symbolism

Peonies, the queen of flowers in Japan, are often featured in traditional Japanese art, including woodblock prints, tapestries, paintings, Kimono, and Kokeshi. In Japanese culture, the peony flower, also known as Botan, symbolizes:

Royalty: A symbol of the unity of the Japanese monarchy.
Wealth: Peonies were once only used by emperors, so they became associated with power and wealth.
Honor: Peonies symbolize high honor and nobility.
Good fortune: Peonies are given to wish good fortune and success in a new job or business.
Love: Peonies symbolize attraction when given as a gesture in a romance.
Ageless beauty: Peonies symbolize ageless beauty.
Bravery and Honor: Honoring the deceased loved ones and ancestors and showing the mental or moral strength to face danger, fear, or difficulty.

Plum (ume) Symbolism

Plum blossoms are also celebrated in Japanese poetry and on the body of both Traditional and Sosaku Kokeshi. Plum blossoms have many meanings in Japanese culture, and are celebrated in Japanese poetry and on the body of both Traditional and Sosaku Kokeshi including:

The arrival of Spring: They are a symbol of spring because they are among the first flowers to bloom each year, usually in mid-February. They represent the end of winter and the changing of seasons.
Renewal and hope: They symbolize hope and renewal because they bloom in the cold of winter, emerging from the darkness to signal the arrival of spring.
Endurance and vitality: They represent endurance and vitality because they can bloom even while covered in frost and are hence associated with a healthy lifestyle.
Inter Strength: They represent inner strength because people believe the blossoms silently endure great hardship before turning into something so beautiful.
Elegance and dignity: They are considered a symbol of elegance and dignity.
Protection from evil spirits: Plum trees are said to ward off evil spirits and are often planted in the northeast corner of temples and estates.

Poppy (Keshinohara) Symbolism

Realistic and abstracted red Poppies are seen dispersed throughout the representation of garments on Kokeshi. In Japan, the poppy flower is primarily associated with dreams, the fleeting nature of life, and a sense of peace and tranquility, often linked to the concept of sleep and the afterlife due to the plant's opium-producing properties; its delicate beauty also represents the ephemeral quality of life, deeply ingrained in Japanese aesthetics. Poppy blossoms have many meanings in Japanese culture, including:

The symbolism of Transience: ThePpoppy’s short blooming period reflects the fleeting nature of life, a significant theme in Japanese Art and Culture.
Aesthetic appeal: The vibrant colors and delicate appearance of the Poppy are appreciated for their beauty and bright color.
Remembrance and rebirth: Poppies graphically illustrate that Kokeshi dolls can symbolize remembrance and renewal, and signify a new beginning.
Deep emotion: In Western cultures, the red Poppy flower is more commonly used to communicate death and remembrance of the past. In Japan, the term Hanakotoba, the meaning takes on something much lighter emotion and reminds us to live our lives with exuberance and passion.

Rose (Bara) Symbolism

In Japanese culture, roses have a variety of symbolic meanings that depend on the color and number of flowers depicted and are often seen on Sosaku Kokeshi. Roses have many meanings and symbolism in Japanese culture, including:

Passion: A strong and barely controllable emotion.
Eternal, harmonious love: A friendly and peaceful relationship characterized by understanding and mutual respect.
Romance and love at first sight: Rebirth and newfound passion.
Secret love and happiness: Intertwined emotions that contribute to a fulfilling life.
Trust, purity, innocence: Confidence and a willingness to be vulnerable.
Peace and friendship: Mutual understanding, respect, care, and support.
Courage and inner strength: Ability to manage life challenges with grace and steadfastness.
Achieving the impossible: Innovation and perseverance in attaining one’s goals.

Wisteria (fuji) Symbolism

Known as fuji, wisteria has been cherished in Japan for centuries. Wisteria flowers appear in literature, such as the Manyoshu collection, art, Sosaku Kokeshi, and theater productions, like Fuji Musume. The oldest fabric in Japan was made using the fibers of wisteria vines, known as Fuji-fu (wisteria cloth), and it is still made today. This fabric was designated a tangible cultural property in 1991. The portrayal of Wisteria on wedding kimonos and Kokeshi dolls is believed to have romantic connotations. Wisteria has many meanings and symbolism in Japanese culture, including:

Longevity: Wisteria can live for up to 100 years or more and is sometimes associated with immortality, as the sword “fuji” sounds similar to “Fushi”, meaning eternal life
Love and kindness: The vine symbolizes love, and is often used in art, poems, family crests, (Mon), and formal Kimono.
Youth: Wisteria symbolizes youth and represents the transience of life, as its flowers bloom for a short time each year.
Success: Considered a symbol of good luck and success, and ward off bad things coming into one’s life.
Humility and reflection: In shin Buddhism, Wisteria symbolizes humility and reflection.
Releasing burdens: Symbolizes releasing burdens.
Nature’s harmony: Symbolizes nature’s harmony and wildlife resilience.

Wheat (Komugi) Symbolism

The “Spirit of Wheat” has been artistically incorporated by numerous Kokeshi artists since it was first focused upon at the Wheat Festival in Korobe Gorge, Japan. It became a central motif of Kokeshi. Many dolls show painted representations of wheat, and also use a burning technique called Shou sugi ban, which creates the three-dimensional qualities of the form and garment being illustrated. Wheat has multiple symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, including:

Strength and rebirth: Symbolizing the strength and rebirth of the Japanese people after the destruction of the country during war, and is cited throughout Japanese literature and art.
Plentifulness: The demand for Wheat increased as it because a key ingredient for Zen monks and Buddhist temples who used it to make noodles and steamed buns.
Symbolic throughout art: Beyond Kokeshi artists, wheat is popular with sumi-e artists, and seen throughout all forms of art. Painting three Wheat spikelets symbolize peace and a good harvest (food and money).
Celebration of Japanese mythology: The sun goddess Amaterasu-Omikami was said to cultivate Wheat and watches over farmers who cultivate wheat and rice.
Cyclical nature of growth: Wheat symbolized the Buddhist concept of “samsara”—the continuous cycle of rebirth and existence based on one’s karma. It parallels the cyclical nature of growth in life and death.

Wood (mokuzai) Symbolism

In Japan, wood is deeply symbolic, representing a connection to nature, spirituality, and the divine, largely due to the Shinto religion, which views trees as sacred and inhabited by spirits. Wood is a vital material in the creation of Kokeshi dolls and for building sacred shrines, signifying longevity, strength, and harmony with the natural world. The indigenous Shinto religion considers trees a pathway for the Gods to defend to earth, imbuing wood with spiritual significance. Additionally, Japanese Kokeshi woodworking philosophy emphasizes respecting the natural grain and characteristics of wood, reflecting a deep connection to the natural environment. Two of the most important woods used in the creation of Kokeshi are Bamboo and Paulownia.

Bamboo (Take) Symbolism

Bamboo is central to Japan's oldest work of fiction, The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, also known as The Tale of Princess Kaguya. It represented in numerous Japanese proverbs. One proverb says, "The bamboo that bends is stronger than the oak that resists." Parents often teach children about Zen philosophy using bamboo, citing lessons from the Japanese forest. Bamboo is a symbol of many things in Japanese culture, including:

Strength: Bamboo is a strong plant with a sturdy root structure, and is seen as a symbol of strength.
Prosperity: A symbol of prosperity and vitality.
Purity: Bamboo is simple and unadorned, standing for purity and innocence.
Permanence: Bamboo is evergreen, with its culms and leaves remaining green eve in winter, which give it a sense of permanence.
Sacred: Due to its permanence, bamboo is regarded as a sacred plant.
Good luck: Bamboo is used in many festivals, ceremonial rituals and Ikebana. For example the Kadomatsu, a New Year’s decoration made of bamboo and pine, is placed at the entrances of homes to welcome deities. Kokeshi artists produce dolls with images of bamboo given at festivals and special occasions.
Lessons for life: Bamboo offers lessons for life and work, such as the ability to spring back after adversity, the importance of growth, and the value of going with the natural flow.

Paulownia (Kiri) Symbolism

Seen as both a foundational and decorative material, Paulownia symbolizes a young woman's coming of age and is often referred to as the "Tree of Life".

Symbol of prosperity: Often associated with the birth of a daughter. It is presented to the daughter and her husband in anticipation of or to honor the birth of a child. Typically, it is given in the form of a wedding chest when she marries.
Good fortune: Many Japanese believe that planting a Paulownia tree on the property of the bride would attract a phoenix, bringing good fortune.
Status: The Paulownia tree is considered a symbol of the Japanese imperial family, often appearing on Kokeshi alongside the chrysanthemum motif.

We know her as Camellia…a perfect name

for someone sweet as she

in winter’s darkness she looks up to contain the sun

Matsuo Basho (1644-1694)

Kokeshi: Art and Nature