Hand-carved and painted Yawata horses have been made in the Nanbu region, centered around Hachinohe City in Aomori Prefecture, for a long time. There are various theories about the origin of this local folk handicraft, but many believe it is because the region was originally a breeding ground for Nanbu horses, and people used these talismen to pray for their beloved horses’ healthy growth. Both the shape and meaning of the wooden carved horses have changed since the Meiji period as a result of changes in society. Today, they are popular souvenirs and gifts that symbolize love and happiness for children and families, and many refer to them as "lucky horses."