Artisans in Hida Takayama crafted these blocks in the shapes of Japanese forest animals. They are made with domestically-grown wood and finished without coating. Five different tree species are used as materials, including cherry, chestnut, and others. Each block is branded its species name on the surface. The package and enclosed pamphlet are also designed to feel a sense of fun. We made these blocls with a wish that they can play a different role depending on the stages of a child’s growth to spend a long time together. Won both the Good Toy Award and the Forestry Agency Secretary Prize in 2013.