folding fanNames of the various parts of the "M"｜Explanation of basic knowledge such as structure and main types of the "M".
folding fanA "windshield" is a tool used to blow air and cool off during the hot and humid season.round fan（The origin of the uchiwa (Japanese fan) is in China, but it is now used as a convenient and portable tool for cooling off in the summer.folding fanIt is said that the idea of making the fan in a portable form was invented in Japan. It used to be called a hiwogi (Japanese cypress fan), which was made by stacking bundles of wood. In Japan, they have been made since the Nara and Heian periods.folding fanThe structure of hiwogi fans has remained largely unchanged since the Nara and Heian periods. The fact that it is basically made with several to several dozen "fan bones" and a "fan surface" is said to be the same no matter what kind of fan is used.folding fanThe same is true no matter what the age of the fan is. This time, we would like to introduce you to a fan that is loved by many people all over the world.folding fanThis time, we would like to introduce the names and types of each part of the fan, which has many fans and is loved by people all over the world.
Names of the Parts folding fan
folding fan is made up of various parts, each of which has a name. First, let’s look at the names and characteristics of each part folding fan.
Names of the Parts folding fan
Folding Fan (Senmen)
The term “fan face” refers to the part of a folding fan where paper or cloth is affixed to folding fan. It can be considered folding fan main part folding fan, as it is used to create a breeze when fanned. In the case of paper-covered folding fans, this part is sometimes called “ji-gami.”
Heaven and Earth
"Ten" refers to the top part of the fan leaf, while "Chi" refers to the bottom part. One way to identify a high-quality fan is to check that the "Ten" section is constructed to close securely. When closed, the fan leaves overlap perfectly, resulting in a beautifully flat "Ten" section.
Fan Bone
The term “fan ribs” refers to the framework folding fan. While bamboo is the primary material used, high-end fans may also be made from fragrant woods such as Japanese cypress or sandalwood. In casual folding fan, the ribs are sometimes made of plastic. A hallmark of folding fan good folding folding fan is that its ribs are sturdily constructed.
Main Rib (Oyabone)
The term “parent rib” refers to the thick, sturdy ribs located at both ends of the fan. The tips of these ribs are tapered inward; this is to prevent the fan from accidentally opening when it is closed. This tapered tip is sometimes called the “tame.”
Central Bone
"Nakabone" refers to the inner fan bones sandwiched between the parent bones; it is sometimes written as "Nakabone." Compared to the parent bones, they are characterized by being more flexible and thinner.The total number of intermediate and main ribs is called the “number of sections”; this ranges from as few as about 8 sections to as many as about 40 sections. Generally, items with a higher number of sections are considered higher quality.
Kaname
The “kaname” refers to the part that connects the main rib and the middle rib at a single point. It is made of metal or plastic and is sometimes written as “kaname-me.” It is said that the term evolved from “kaninome” (crab’s eye), as its appearance resembles that of a crab’s eye.
The “yō” is a crucial part; if it breaks, folding fan becomes unusable. For this reason, it is the etymological origin of the phrase “kanjin-yō,” which means “the most essential part.”
Cluster (Fusa)
A “tassel” is a tassel-like ornament attached to a pipe-shaped handle or to a single-tube handle with a ring. Originally, it was designed to be threaded onto a cord and worn like a strap around the wrist. Today, it is often used as a decorative element—for example, by attaching red-and-white tassels to ceremonial folding fan or by swapping out tassels to suit one’s taste.
Mountains and Valleys
"Peaks" and "valleys" refer to the folds in the accordion-like pleats of a fan. When viewed from the front, the raised parts are peaks, and the indented parts are valleys.
[By Fan Surface Material] Main Types of folding fan Fans
While folding fan are sometimes distinguished by their place of origin—such as Kyoto fans and Edo fan—they are also categorized into various types based on the material used for the fan surface. Here, we’ll introduce the most common types folding fan.
Paper folding fan
folding fan with a paper surface is called folding fan “paper folding fan.” It is arguably the most common folding fan of folding fan used in Japan since ancient times.
Because the flexibility of the ribs allows them to generate a strong breeze, they are ideal for fanning oneself to stay cool. Since paper is attached to both sides folding fan, the ribs are barely visible, giving it an attractive appearance.
Cloth folding fan
A “cloth folding fan” is folding fan whose fan surface is made of fabric rather than paper. The fan surface may feature embroidery or prints, and these fans are characterized by their vibrant designs, which paper folding fan lack. However, because the fabric is thicker than paper, it is attached to only one side of the fan.One advantage is their high durability and resistance to tearing, but the ribs may be visible on the reverse side, which could detract from their appearance.
Since different fabrics are suited for different occasions, you can enjoy choosing a different type to match your outing or outfit. Cotton has a soft, gentle feel, making it a good match for yukata and kimono.Linen offers a cool, refreshing feel and a rustic texture, making it ideal for pairing with summer clothing or other linen garments. Polyester is characterized by its sheer quality and pairs well with everyday or casual outfits. Silk has a luxurious sheen, making it suitable for business settings or formal occasions.
Sandalwood folding fan
There are also board fans made by layering pieces of sandalwood, a fragrant wood.A “board fan” is folding fan with no paper or fabric attached to the fan surface. It is not used primarily to create a breeze by fanning, but rather to enjoy the fragrance. Since they are often adorned with openwork carvings or painted designs, you can appreciate not only the scent but also their elegant and beautiful designs.
For more detailed information on the types folding fan
, please refer to the following section: "Main Types of Folding Fans | Classification by Material, Purpose, Place of Origin, and Size, and Proper Usage">Main Types folding fan | Classification by Material, Purpose, Place of Origin, and Size, and Proper Usage
4 Recommended Folding folding fan Ibasen
Founded in Tenshō 18, “Ibasen” is folding fan long-established folding fan shop with a history spanning 430 years. To preserve Japan’s traditional culture, the company focuses on creating products that incorporate Edo-period designs and colors.Ibasen folding fan are characterized by their use of carefully selected materials, such as domestically sourced bamboo, washi paper, and natural fibers. Here, we introduce folding fan charming folding fan recommended Ibasen. We hope you’ll enjoy folding fan exquisite folding fan, crafted by the hands of skilled artisans.
Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print Decorative Fan: Ukiyo-e, "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" by Hokusai, "Under the Wave off Kanagawa," Comes with Box and folding fan
"Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" is a series of works by Katsushika Hokusai, a ukiyo-e artist active in the late Edo period, and is widely regarded as his masterpiece. We’ve created a bold design based on "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," one of the most famous works in the series.Depicted in a subdued palette of white and blue, this striking piece features a massive wave sending up wild spray. A small fishing boat floats amidst the waves, and this contrast further enhances the sense of power and intensity.Mount Fuji is depicted in the center, obscured by the spray—a technique believed to emphasize the mountain’s presence. This limited-edition model is also very popular at Ibasen.
Edo fan: "Everything Umakuiku"
This Edo fan depicts nine horses galloping in a counterclockwise direction. The phrase “nine horses going” (馬九行く) is read as Umakuiku well” and is popular as an auspicious pun.Furthermore, the nine horses are said to represent nine types of good fortune: luck in competition, financial luck, career advancement, family harmony, romantic relationships, health, business prosperity, bountiful harvests and catches, and success on entrance exams. Additionally, since the horses are depicted facing left—a symbol meaning “there is nothing that can surpass it”—this fan is highly recommended for crucial moments when the outcome is on the line.
Edo fan Double-Sided Design, Dragonfly Blue
The dragonfly, a symbol of a bountiful harvest, was called a “kachimushi” (victory insect) because it can only move forward and never backward. Valued by samurai as an auspicious insect, dragonfly motifs were frequently used on armor and attire.When facing a contest or a situation they refuse to give up on, some people use items featuring dragonfly motifs as a good-luck charm.
Shikebiki fan Nakahada
The “shike” Shikebiki refers to the silk thread drawn from silkworms. “Shikebiki” is the name of the technique used to dye delicate striped patterns onto fabric using a shike brush, which is carved into a comb-like shape.Since the entire process is done by hand by skilled artisans, Shikebiki fan offer a distinctive, rich charm in their stripes and checkered patterns that differs from those created by weaving. “Naka-no-Nada” is a shade of indigo dye, characterized by a slightly darker blue hue. Please enjoy the elegant Shikebiki stripe patterns crafted by expert artisans.
folding fan Pouches and Boxes (IbasenCommerce Ibasen)
Learn the names of the different parts folding fan and pay attention to every detail
We’ve introduced the names of the various parts folding fan, their characteristics, and some recommended folding fan. Since folding fan are made up of various parts, you can enjoy different styles depending on how they’re combined. Pay close attention to the details and be sure to find your favorite folding fan.
