Kites
A popular pastime and festival activity for centuries, Japanese kites remain a delightful and entertaining tradition.
children flying kites
Traditional kites from Japan are made from a split bamboo framework and layers of handmade washi paper. The kites are often finished with colorful painted narrative illustrations, legendary heroes, and design elements that reflect Japanese folklore. Everything about these kites is based on kite-making traditions and aesthetics of distinct regions within Japan.
This exhibit presents traditional kites from various regions of Japan and introduces a number of respected traditional kite artists. It explores cultural, historic, and artistic perspectives of kite-making and kite-flying in Japan.
