Arima ningyō-fude (有馬人形筆) are writing brushes with a tiny doll hidden in the end of the shaft that pops up when the brush is lifted. The craft is traced to the Muromachi period, Hyogo designated it a traditional craft in 1993, and the Arima tourism association says only one shop still makes them.
Why it's unique
According to the Arima Onsen Tourism Association, only one shop still makes these brushes. Arguably that is a world claim, but the sources support the country.
You can pick one up in the shop that makes them and watch the doll appear before you buy, which is the whole charm.
Before you go
The shafts are wound with coloured silk thread by hand, and the brushes are real ones, used for painting as well as calligraphy. Pick one up and turn it to see the doll appear before you buy.
The shop keeps short hours and closes midweek, so do not leave it to the end of a Wednesday.
