Oigen Wind Chime Konjikido Golden Hall

Cast Iron Wind Chime

A Konjikido or Golden Hall is depicted in the ornament above the bell in this traditional wind chime by Oigen. And this is no ordinary Golden Hall. Part of World Heritage listed Chuson-ji Temple, this Golden Hall is designated a Japanese National Treasure and houses the remains of the leaders of 4 generations of the Fujiwara clan. Fujiwara no Kiyohira is entombed within the altar, his son Fujiwara no Motohira and grandson Fujiwara no Hidehira are entombed in the rear corners of the temple, along with the remains of Kiyohira's great-grandson Fujiwara no Yasuhira. It was built in 1124AD in the town of Hiraizumi in Iwate prefecture.

This Konjikido is also said to be the temple Marco Polo talks about as the "great palace which is entirely roofed in fine gold" in his book "The Travels of Marco Polo" c1300.

In Japan wind chimes are often hung to bring a sense of coolness, serenity and connection with nature, especially during hot summers. They're also believed to bring good luck.

Included in the package is 1 tanzaku (paper wind catcher). If it's for yourself feel free to make a wish or prayer and write this on the tanzaku. If you are buying it as a gift feel free to put a personalised message or poem on the tanzaku. Example: "Hoping this Japanese wind chime will bring you happiness and peace" and add you name.

Hung in apartments, homes, gardens and of course temples they are a popular part of Japanese culture.

The timing of the wind chime sounding is unpredictable and fleeting much like the "mono no aware" Japanese concept.

Size: Ornament is 7.1cm diameter, height 8.2cm. Bell measurements 4.5cm diameter, height 3.8cm.

Oigen est. 1852

• Each piece individually crafted by Oigen Japan