Japanese musha ningyo, Japan samurai dolls or warrior dolls, are displayed during Boys' Day festival. (5th day of the 5thmonth) Intertwined in Japan' s military history, elaborately clothed in silk brocade, the Japan samurai warrior dolls evoked the spirits of ancient samurai to protect the household.

Military figures and heroes are popular ningyos. Minamoto No  Yoshistune (1159-1189) was exemplified as one of Japan's greatest and most brilliant warriors.. As a youth he secretly practiced swordsmanship at night. Approached by the supernatural world, he was taught the art of swordsmanship and military strategy by Tengu’s retainers. The jealousy of his half brother caused him to commit seppuku at age 30. He is depicted here in full battle amour contemplating the strategy for his next battle.

The spirit and the rich culture of the Japanese are reflected in the art of the individually crafted Japanese samurai doll. Doll making in Japan was an art form where quality was uncompromised.