You may think you know kokeshi, the iconic wooden dolls of Tohoku, but this shop will have you seeing them in a whole new light. Through his creativity and craftsmanship, Mr. Hayashi takes this hundred-year-old craft in delightful new directions. His signature Ishinomaki Kokeshi, painted in a red and blue sea-inspired motif, is a subtle twist on tradition. Other designs are bolder yet, sporting unconventional shapes or cheeky pop culture references.

Some of Mr. Hayashi’s unique dolls are for sale, while others are for display only. A trip to his workshop is a joy regardless of whether or not you intend to make a purchase. Tree Tree also offers kokeshi-painting workshops, where you can learn the basics from the artist himself.