Toys“R”Us, Japan unveils 'Miyabi Kobo' Hina dolls

Toys“R”Us, Japan on Wednesday unveiled its latest collection of “Miyabi Kobo” brand Hina dolls, created exclusively for Toys“R”Us under the guidance of Yoshitoku, Tokyo’s oldest manufacturer of traditional Japanese dolls. The dolls, which are traditionally displayed for Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) on March 3, are now available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores nationwide, as well as the Toys“R”Us Online Store (www.toysrus.co.jp).

Founded in Edo (present-day Tokyo) some 300 years ago, Yoshitoku has overseen the production of Miyabi Kobo Hina dolls each year since 1994. This year’s collection includes over 150 doll sets and accessories, ranging from elegant, traditional designs to modern designs that reflect current tastes and trends, at prices to suit every budget.

The collection includes five main types of Hina dolls:

• Shuno kazari – a compact style that features space for storing dolls and accessories • Shinno kazari – the “Imperial prince” set, a traditional design featuring two dolls • Case kazari – dolls are enclosed in a display case, offering protection from dust • Sandan kazari – a gorgeous three-tier display, featuring many dolls and accessories • Kimekomi ningyo – wooden dolls with highly expressive faces

Highlights from this year’s collection include the “Hana Miyabi” benizakura series, which features elaborate detailing and employs the same high-quality, traditional lacquer work used to create Japan’s famed Takaoka lacquer ware. Other notable offerings include a set of standing Hina dolls, recalling a style that was popular in the early Edo period, as well as a set that includes multiple kakeobi (decorative sashes), which can be interchanged to create different “looks” for the dolls.

The entire catalogue of Hina dolls may be viewed on the Toys“R”Us Online Store at www.toysrus.co.jp/f/hina (Japanese only).

Customers who choose to shop online may also select from a number of online exclusives, including ukiyo ningyo (stand-alone dolls traditionally given to younger daughters) and nanadan kazari (deluxe seven-tier displays).

Customers who purchase Hina dolls at Toys“R”Us/Babies“R”Us stores or online will receive a number of special offers to help them enjoy their dolls to the fullest, including free nationwide shipping, an embroidered cloth and three-piece cleaning set, and a DVD explaining the correct procedure for displaying the dolls.

Monika Merz, president of Toys“R”Us, Asia Pacific said, “Hinamatsuri has been celebrated in Japan for over 1,000 years and is an important tradition for many of our customers. As the country’s leading authority on toys and baby products, Toys“R”Us is delighted to offer a range of truly exquisite Hina dolls at prices that suit every budget. We welcome families celebrating Hinamatsuri for the first time to come in and speak with our highly trained store associates, who are happy to assist customers in selecting the perfect set of dolls.”

Toys“R”Us associates have undergone a special training program developed by Yoshitoku to ensure that customers receive expert advice and guidance when selecting Hina dolls. In addition, Yoshitoku staff will also be available at Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores on weekends, holidays, and lucky days (“taian” in the Japanese calendar) to answer questions and provide recommendations.

© Japan Today