Discover the 200-year-old tradition of MatsumotoOshi–e-bina dolls in this talk and live demonstration by expert doll makers Mimura Takahiko and Mimura Shūko of Belleamie Doll Shop in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture.

Oshi-e (lit. ‘pressed picture’) is a Japanese craft technique in which padded card shapes are covered with fabric (often silk repurposed from old kimono) and assembled to create colourful, three-dimensional relief images. Fine detail such as facial features are typically painted by hand.

Matsumoto Oshi–e-bina dolls are believed to have originated in the castle town surrounding Matsumoto Castle in the early 19th century, when the ruling Toda clan encouraged their production as a local industry.

During the late 19th century, the craft flourished among women from former samurai families who produced dolls for seasonal celebrations, including Girls’ Day (Hina–matsuri), as well as figures depicting kabuki actors and historical figures.

Although the tradition declined during the 20th century, it was revived in the 1970s by the Belleamie Doll Shop, which drew on historic examples preserved in museums and private collections. In 2025, Matsumoto Oshi–e-bina was designated a Nagano Prefectural Traditional Craft.

Through an illustrated talk and live demonstration, discover how this craft emerged from the culture of Matsumoto’s castle town, learn about the techniques used in its creation and meet the sole artisans preserving the tradition today.

This event forms part of a wider programme exploring the history and culture of Matsumoto, including a talk on the historical significance of Matsumoto Castle on Thursday 30 July and family workshops on making Matsumoto Tanabata dolls on Saturday 1 August.

The event series is presented as part of the Spotlight on Local Japan Programme, organized in collaboration with Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), which accepts applications from potential collaborators based in Japan to co-create cultural event

s presenting Japan’s regional diversity at Japan House London.

Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.

About the speakers

Mimura Takahiko and MimuraShūko(Belleamie Doll Shop)

Mimura Takahiko and Mimura Shūko are doll makers at Belleamie Doll Shop in Matsumoto, a family-run studio which first opened in 1957. Continuing a legacy established by Takahiko’s parents, they specialize in the creation and restoration of Matsumoto Oshi-e-bina and Tanabata dolls, crafts deeply embedded in local culture. Their work has been featured in museums, media and global touring exhibitions, contributing to the recognition of Matsumoto Oshie-bina as a designated Nagano Prefecture Traditional Craft in 2025.

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Booking essential | Admission free