When a soft chime sways in the breeze, it brings a sense of calm that gently loosens the mind. This is the quiet charm of the furin, or Japanese wind chime. Beloved for both its delicate appearance and its seasonal sound, the furin has become an iconic symbol of summer in Japan. Taking part in a wind chime–making workshop while traveling is more than a simple craft activity—it’s a chance to bring home a memory of sound.

The history of wind chimes in Japan dates back centuries. Originating from ancient Chinese bronze futaku, which were hung on temple eaves in Buddhist architecture, the concept eventually took root among the general population during the Edo period. Over time, furin were crafted from glass, pottery, and metal, and came to be seen not only as seasonal decorations, but also as talismans believed to ward off evil and invite coolness during the summer heat.

The experience begins by selecting the main body of the wind chime. Glass is a popular choice, especially for its transparency and lightness. Participants can paint or decorate their chimes with summer motifs such as goldfish, fireworks, or morning glories, turning each into a uniquely personal and seasonal creation. Some workshops also offer ceramic or metal furin, each with its own distinct tone and character.

The gentle sound of a furin comes from its internal clapper—called a zetsu—and the strip of paper, or tanzaku, that hangs below it. As the wind moves the tanzaku, the zetsu touches the bell and produces a chime. During the workshop, participants learn how this mechanism works and how movement affects sound. Once completed, there’s time to fine-tune the chime by listening closely, adjusting for the tone that pleases your own ear—an auditory keepsake of your time in Japan.

What makes wind chime crafting truly unique is the final step—tuning the sound. Rather than simply creating something to display, participants listen carefully to find the tone that is most soothing to them. This process sharpens one’s sensitivity to sound and transforms the experience into something deeply personal. It’s a multisensory form of creation—designed with the eyes, shaped by the hands, and completed with the ears—captivating for both children and adults alike.

Workshops often take place in settings rich with local character—traditional homes, glass studios, ceramic villages, or summer festival grounds. The very sight of swaying chimes evokes the essence of Japan’s seasonal landscape. After the crafting session, participants may enjoy time in a display area or on a breezy engawa (veranda), listening to the chimes in the open air. This quiet moment, where sound, wind, and scenery converge, is a fleeting yet unforgettable part of summer travel in Japan.

For international visitors, furin (wind chimes) are among the most beloved symbols of Japanese culture. Many workshops offer English explanations and printed guides, allowing participants to explore the cultural background, materials, and tonal differences while enjoying the creative process. Once finished, the chimes are carefully packaged to prevent breakage, so you can bring the sound of your journey home with you.

To make a wind chime is to collect not just a physical object, but a memory shaped in sound. A quiet summer afternoon, the soft note of a breeze, the moment your brush danced across the glass—these ephemeral experiences are held within the bell.

In Japan, you can take home more than a souvenir—you can take home a feeling, captured in sound.