Karakuri

The word 'Karakuri' means a mechanical device to tease, trick, or take a person by surprise.

There are three main categories of Karakuri. Butai Karakuri are puppets used in the theatre, Zashiki Karakuri are small and can be played with in rooms and Dashi Karakuri puppets perform on wooden floats used in religious festivals. Traditionally Karakuri appeared in religious festivals, performed reenactments of traditional myths and legends and entertained the public with their sophisticated, symbolic and graceful gestures.

• Karakuri