What is Furin or Fuurin?

Furin are Japanese wind chimes, which are customarily hung out during summer. They were once traditionally crafted from metal or glass, but nowadays ceramics, wood, charcoal, crystal or other substances are also utilized. Typically a furin includes a tanzaku, a piece of elongated paper which catches the wind and flutters to generate sounds, like the clapper in a bell. The tinkling sounds have a relaxing and refreshing effect on listeners during Japan’s hot and humid summers.