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Podcast: In-depth News Features | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News
Episode: Kokeshi-doll vending machine spotlights Japanese handicraft
Description: Vending machines and traditional wooden kokeshi dolls are both icons of Japanese culture, and a hot spring resort in northeastern Fukushima Prefecture has combined the two. The novelty of being able to buy the dolls 24 hours a day has created a buzz and lifted sales – and is also raising awareness about the need to preserve the handicraft.