Pop Japan

Chochin is one of the traditional lighting equipment of Japan. It is made from washi paper wound in a spiral frame of split bamboo. The structure allows the bamboo to be collapsed and pleated flat. This makes the lantern portable and long-lasting despite a rainy weather.

The techniques for creating these lanterns have been passed down from one generation to another. The chochin hangs from a hook at the top. The first record of a chochin goes way back to 1085. It is said to have come from China. The lanterns are traditionally lit at Japanese festivals, shrines, and restaurants.

Photo by Tomomarusan. Licensed under Creative Commons. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en)

Tags: tradition, traditional lighting, washi paper, bamboo, chochin, lantern, Japanese festivals