Wind chimes at Ofusa Kannon

Wind chimes recall summer for most Japanese. In old times, Chinese used Futaku for divination which was brought to Japan along with Buddhism. Back then people believed that the wind brought disease and disaster. The sound of Futaku creates a sanctuary to prevent catastrophe; thus monks hang wind-belles from the eaves.

Futaku was mostly made of bronze. In the Edo period, glass wind-bells became popular as glass material was brought from the West. Since then, Japanese have used wind chimes for charms against evil.

During Summer, Ofusa Kannon displays over 2,500 wind chimes! It’s a breathtaking view and also clears your mind with refreshing ting-a-ling sounds!