What do you associate the most with summer? In Japan, summers immediately bring to mind “furin” wind chimes as they are often seen hanging from eaves of traditional homes. Each time the wind blows, the little bells chime and create a beautiful, refreshing sound that nourishes the heart. In this article, we’ll be introducing some amazing Japanese wind chimes that represent the height of design and quality. We’ll also be scoring them based on their price, design, and more. We hope that this guide helps you to find the perfect wind chime to bring Japanese summer vibes straight to your door!
1. Orizuru Furin: Large
Score: ★★★★☆
This wind chime is made using Takaoka copperware, a style originating in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture. It exudes an entirely different aura than glass-made wind chimes with its solemn, profound character. Another thing that sets it apart from glass wind chimes is its toughness and durability, as metal does not break easily.
Adding to the chime’s appeal is the Japanese crane on top, which is considered a good luck charm in Japan. Along with being a symbol of longevity, the calls of cranes echo high into the sky and are said to reach the gods themselves, offering a connection to the heavens.
2. WIND CHIMES SLIM-GOLD
Score: ★★★★★
Like the chime above, this item is also made using Takaoka copperware techniques. The origins of this craft begin roughly 400 years ago with Maeda Toshinaga, the lord of the Kaga Domain (which included Toyama), who summoned seven metal casters as part of his plan to revitalize his towns.
This product is actually made with brass, which boasts moderate levels of durability. The design is stylish and will match both Japanese and Western-style rooms. The chime’s tone is distinctly clear and pleasant.
3. Brass Bell Cricket Wind Chime - Includes Yosegi Tanzaku
Score: ★★★★☆
This wind chime is made using Odawara metal-casting techniques, which originated in the city of Odawara in western Kanagawa Prefecture and have been passed down since the Muromachi Period (1336 – 1573). The material used here is brass, resulting in a light, dignified tone and a prolonged reverberation resembling the sound of a Japanese bell cricket.
The attached “tanzaku” strip is made using real wood resembling Hakone Yosegi marquetry. As every piece is crafted by hand, they each have their own unique charm.
4. RYO NO OTO STATIONARY WIND CHIME
Score: ★★★★★
This unique wind chime is cleverly designed to stand on its own, allowing it to be placed anywhere in a room. It was crafted by Kumagai So Shop, a workshop known for their many original creations of Kyo/Kiyomizu ware, which prospered during the early Edo Period (1603 – 1680). Boasting a distinctive iron kettle-like appearance, the chime comes in two styles: the dignified “Kokushu” and the beautifully modern “Hanakessho.”
With a classy design, this chime will easily match both Japanese and Western interiors.
5. CHIBI (M) KIKU KNOT YELLOW
Score: ★★★★★
Made by Nanjo Kobo, a workshop founded over 190 years ago specializing in implements for Buddhist ceremonies, this wind chime was made using a special alloy known as “sahari.” Sahari is created by mixing copper and tin to produce a metal alloy that can yield a beautiful tone and a long-lasting reverberation. As soon as it’s rung, the clear, echoing sound will no doubt ease your heart!
While diligently managing each step of the production process, from the temperature control to the melting and cooling, Nanjo Kobo handcrafts all of their metal-casted and sahari masterpieces from scratch!
6. Temple Wind Chime, Red Copper Wind Chimes with 3 Bells
Score: ★★★☆☆
Composed of three different bells, this wind chime is one of the most unique additions to the list! The bells are made from a copper alloy connected with a nylon string, making each chime durable as well as water and wind-resistant, and when it comes to outside chimes, durability is one of the most important factors.
The tone is clean and crisp and will surely ease your heart. The classy, modern coloring also makes it the perfect gift for a special occasion!
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*These products may not be able to be shipped to certain countries. Please see the retailer's website for more information.
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.