Showing 1–9 of 84 results
Showing 1–9 of 84 results
Your Guide to Wind Bells
The name ‘Furin’ comes from the Japanese language, ‘Fu’ meaning wind and “Rin’ meaning bell. These delightful wind chimes or wind bells have a bowl-shaped exterior with a ‘zetsu’ or clapper inside the bowl that produces the sound. Underneath is a strip of artfully decorated paper ‘Tanzaku’, hung from the zetsu. Combined, these three parts resonate with their famously magical sound, often nostalgically referred to by the Japanese as “the sound of summer”.
When and where did Japanese wind bells originate?
Also known as Japanese wind chimes, the furin we know today originated from a Chinese fortune-telling tool (senfutaku) used to predict one’s fortune based on the movement and sound created by the wind. It was introduced to Japan along with Buddhism in the Heian era (794 – 1185).
These earlier chimes were made of heavy brass and were much louder than today’s glass variety. Later, Dutch glassmaking techniques became very popular in Japan during the Edo period. Local artisans adopted some of these practices and over time, the Furin changed to the elegant sound it is today.
What are wind bells made out of?
Furin wind bells are available in a variety of materials. Brass is one common material, used to make Takaoka furin through a traditional casting technique. Edo furin are made from glass and other popular Japanese wind chimes can be made from ceramics and cast iron. Each type of wind chime is based on the traditional techniques and materials used by the respective areas they originate from.
Where should I hang my wind bell?
Hang your wind bell outside in a protected area or near a window and enjoy the soothing sounds as the wind gently blows. They can be used indoors or outdoors, however, it’s a good idea to bring them inside during heavy rain as this may damage the wind catchers. The cast iron wind chimes have unlaminated paper Tanzaku and should be brought inside during rain. The ceramic and glass furin have laminated paper Tanzaku which provides more tolerance to the elements. Brass wind bells use Washi paper which, while more resilient than Tanzaku, should still be protected from severe weather.
What shipping options are available for wind bells?
We offer fast shipping, free for orders over $150. Plus, a 30-day money-back guarantee on all chimes. If you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll happily give you a full refund. (Returns must be well packed and returned in their original condition within 30 days.) We’ll even pay return postage.