Experience Japan’s Summer by making Wind Bells
Experience Japanese summer with wind bells
The number of wind bells in Japan has been decreasing. However, it has become to attract the attention of foreign visitors.
In today’s article, we will introduce you to the history of wind bells, and also a place in Osaka where you can make one for yourself.
Did you know?
Wind bells were originally hung at houses as a protection from evil.
Back in the times of Táng in China
wind bells were hung on the four corners of temples and houses to ward off evil by their ringing sounds. These wind bells were called “Futaku (風鐸),” and was spread across Japan along with Buddhism.
Later, Hounenshounin, the founder of Jodo shu which is a branch of Buddhism, named the wind bell Furei. This name eventually changed to Furin, which is the name known now.
Furin’s come in many kinds of shapes and materials such as steel, copper, glass, pottery, wood, charcoal, crystal etc.
the birthplace of glass
In this article, we will focus on wind bells made of glass.
Did you know that Osaka is the birthplace of glass?
In the early Showa period, the glass industry was a huge industry. It was so huge that Osaka’s economy was sustained thanks to glass.
The fact that Osaka is the birthplace of glass is carved on a stone at Osaka Tenmangu, which is 400 south of Osaka Tenmangu Station.
The factory is Kawachifurin in Katano-shi.
There are only a few glass wind bell factories left in Japan. In the Kansai area, Osaka is the only place where you can experience glass wind bell making.
The factory is Kawachifurin in Katano-shi.
Kan Tugihiro, who runs this factory, makes wind bells out of glass bottles that were thrown away. He carefully makes each wind bell with his blowing pipe, using the furnace which is 1350 degrees. 1500 wind bells are made every year and each one of them is different in shape and size as they are handmade.
Because they are made from a material that would have been thrown away, these wind bells are eco-friendly and also recommended as a one and only souvenir.
Glass Wind Bell Making Experience,Glass Name Seals Making Experience
The wind bell making experience is held every month except December to February.
Not only can you make glass wind bells, you can also make glass name seals which can be experienced throughout the year.
Many students experience making wind bells every year. Why not try making one for yourself as a memory or a souvenir.
| Name of the facility | Kawauchi Furin |
|---|---|
| Address | 2-11-6 Myokenzaka, Katano-shi |
| Tell | 072-808-6351 |
| Nearest station | Kisaichi Station (Keihan Katano line)▶15 min. walk |
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