Karakuri dolls are the first automata in Japan.
Their movements are caused by the power of springs, mercury and sand without
ever uning single metallic screw or nail. They did and do attract people.
Japan boasts to the world the ultimate reproduction of karakuri dolls,
which has been achieved by Harumitsu Han-ya, the master craftman.
http://karakuriya.com/english/index.htm