Dodgers Superstar Shohei Ohtani Gets Personalized Hina Doll You Have to See to Believe
The expectations for Shohei Ohtani in his first year with the Dodgers have reached the ultimate level of respect in Japan.
On Jan. 31, renowned Japanese doll maker Kyugetsu, which is based in Asakusabashi, Tokyo, announced its 2024 “Kotoshi no Kitaibina” collection. Meaning “dolls of expectations for the year ahead,” the collection features five athletes who are expected to make a global impact.
One of the subjects is Ohtani.
The photo below is taken from Japan Forward and displays a face identical to Ohtani’s. According to the story, artists who create these dolls depend on photos as references to recreate their smiles.
Traditionally, Hina dolls are displayed with small items that symbolize the respective person. Ohtani’s doll is holding a miniature baseball bat.
Kyugetsu has been crafting this special collection every year since 2013, with the 2024 collection marking its 12th edition. The dolls are not available for purchase but each doll is estimated to be valued between ¥250,000 and ¥300,000 Japanese Yen (approximately $1,700 to $2,000 USD).
In other words, don’t expect them to be given away at a Dodger game anytime soon.
Photo Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
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