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Summer

Fuurin - Japanese Wind Chimes

Visit shrines and temples adorning fuurin (Japanese Wind Chimes), a Japanese summer tradition. Notable places include Nyoirinji Temple in Fukuoka, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine in Saitama, Houtokuji Temple in Gunma, Enshu Sanzan Fuurin Festival in Shizuoka, and Ofusa Kannon Temple in Nara.

Fuurin - Japanese Wind Chimes
Photo by utakaha on Unsplash

As you explore Japan in the summer, you'll likely encounter shrines and temples adorned with fuurin, which are Japanese Wind Chimes. The rows of fuurin sway gracefully with the wind, producing a chain of soft melodious sounds that echo in the area. Their delicate dance and gentle chime indicate a passing breeze, a brief but welcome respite during the hot and humid summer.

In the past, shrines and temples would hang fuurin in the four corners of their property to keep away evil spirits and bad luck. This is why large displays and events with fuurin are located in these places. As time passed, the significance of fuurin changed, and you will often see households putting them up in their balcony or stores hanging them in their storefront to enjoy the pleasant sound they make during the summer.

Some notable places to visit with further details below:

  • Nyoirinji Temple | Fukuoka
  • Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine | Saitama
  • Houtokuji Temple | Gunma
  • Enshu Sanzan Fuurin Festival | Shizuoka
  • Ofusa Kannon Temple | Nara

Nyoirinji Temple | Fukuoka

The temple, fondly known as "the Frog Temple," features an impressive collection of approximately 10,000 frog statues and decorations. Each summer, over 3,000 fuurin (wind chimes) sway with the breeze that passes through the temple courtyard.

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine | Saitama

Pass through the 15-meter-high Otorii (Grand Gate) to find the serene space that resembles a small forest. Its grounds are adorned with a vibrant tunnel of over 2,000 Edo-style fuurin (wind chimes), producing gentle, harmonious tones with the wind.

Houtokuji Temple | Gunma

Along with a tunnel of 3,000 fuurin (wind chimes), the temple offers a viewing of Yukamomiji, which are reflections of the Japanese maples on the floor. While autumn is a popular time to visit when the leaves change color, the summer greenery also offers equally breathtaking views.

Enshu Sanzan Fuurin Festival | Shizuoka

Enshu Sanzan refers to three temples: Hattasan, Yuzanji, and Kasuisai. All three temples offer a unique display of fuurin (wind chimes) and Japanese sweets with tea to enjoy with the view. The Fuurin Path at Kasuisai is pictured above.

Ofusa Kannon Temple | Nara

In addition to the display of 2,500 fuurin (wind chimes), the temple hosts an exhibition of fuurin (wind chimes) collected from all over Japan. From 6 - 9 pm, the fuurin (wind chimes) float alongside illuminated lanterns for a special night viewing.

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