Questions from Readers:
Is it true that not many people know about this?
Memories of Dakko-chan
When a friend asked me about “Dakko-chan,” I couldn’t help but laugh. The truth is, I also remember seeing the Dakko-chan that my mother had when I was a child. That vinyl doll with its slightly eerie face was truly a mysterious presence in hindsight.
I still wonder why Dakko-chan became so popular; perhaps it was a reflection of the unique culture of the Showa era. In my household, my mother would boast, “If you walk around with Dakko-chan, everyone will notice you!” And she was right; the sight of someone walking with it wrapped around their arm was incredibly impactful, something unimaginable today. However, it might not be quite as accepted in today’s world.
The Dakko-chan Boom and Its Impact
It’s surprising to think that 2.4 million units were sold in the 1960s. It clearly shows how in tune young women of that time were with trends. My mother may have been one of them. One day, she took Dakko-chan to the park with her friends, and people around them were captivated. She laughed as she recounted, “It was like a fashion show!” However, it’s a bit saddening to hear that Dakko-chan is sometimes viewed as a symbol of racial discrimination. While I understand that there were various opinions considering the historical context, for the people of that time, it was just a cute toy. Whenever I think of Dakko-chan, I recall my mother’s joyful moments and the conversations she had with her friends. Although it may no longer be available, the enthusiasm of that era surely lingers in our hearts.
Share Your Memories!
So, what do you all think about Dakko-chan? If you have any nostalgic memories about toys or trends from the Showa era, please share them in the comments! I would love to hear more stories. Who knows, hearing everyone’s experiences might lead to new discoveries!
