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Please put your memories into a small box, your dreams into a big box.
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A foreigner with interest in Japanese culture may experience new discoveries with a trip to Japan.
They are observing the accumulated ditty box.
Did you find any good things?
This is a traditional craft called Hana tebako -literally meaning a "flower ditty box".
This craft is over 800 years old.
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Hana tebako is used as a girl's treasure box. |
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手前の花手箱(1号)と花手箱(6号) |
It is said that Hana tebako was developed by the people of Heike, who were tragic warriors.
A warriors served the aristocrats as personal guards.
The Heike warriors are of great historical significance, and they came to power at the expense of the aristocrats in late of 12th century Kyoto*.
(Japan's first full-fledged military government was established by Genji)
*The city of Kyoto is the birthplace of traditional culture and arts.
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As a result of conflict between the samurai's chief Heike and the Genji, the Taira-Minamoto War broke out, and resulted in the Heike being removed from power.
The Heike fled and hid in the Hitoyoshi region of Kumamoto Prefecture, located in the south of Japan.
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The kuma river through Hitoyoshi region「 |
graves of the feudal lord
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The Heike people drew the camellia flower as a decorative design,which evoked the memory of Kyoto's way of life.
The camellia blossom is vivid in complexion and detailed.
Hana tebako is used as a girl's treasure box.
Although marbles and beanbags were stored in them a long time ago, nowadays they are used for storing accessories.
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Hana tebako is a popular item found in almost every stall in the market. |
In Japan, the third of March is commonly referred to as Momo no Sekku, or "Festival of the Peach".
It is on this day that families celebrate Hina Matsuri, the Doll Festival, and pray for the happiness and healthy development of girls in every household. |
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A market opens in Hitoyoshi in the season of Momo no Sekku.
Hana tebako is a popular item found in almost every stall in the market.
Although the legend of the Heike people is an old one, the use of the Hana tebako is still common.
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Hana tebako:Flower Box(The ditty box designed with the camellia blossom) |
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2,200yen |
3,300yen |
4,180yen |
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