Chōbachi

Chōbachi (闲芥; ちょうばち), also known as lucky dolls, are traditional Kantonese dolls made from cotton or fine wool. They are traditionally female, though male versions are not uncommon. The dolls are said to bring good luck to the children who take care of them and play with them.
Chōbachi are made from cotton or fine wool, which is then stuffed with some kind of padding, usually cotton wool. Wooden sticks, traditionally made of hazel, are inserted to give the doll's body structure. Dark horse hair is threaded into the head of the doll to simulate hair; in some cases, human hair will be used instead. Conventionally, the doll does not have an expression, and it is up to the child to decide the personality of the doll and paint a face themselves. It is believed that if the doll is given enough care and attention, it will become animate and grant wishes for its caretaker.
In recent years, chōbachi have been somewhat commercialised, and factory-produced dolls have become popular. These dolls are almost always made with synthetic materials, are much smaller, and have ready-painted faces. They are also not made with the traditional wooden structuring.