団扇(うちわ) - Uchiwa (a round fan)

A rounded fan called an uchiwa is a small article that you hold in your hand. The uchiwa is an accessory for the yukata. It was introduced from China over a thousand years ago. Uchiwas are made from paper and bamboo. The bamboo is used for the framework and handle. The framework consists of a round-shaped frame and between 20 and 30 ribs that run lengthwise across the frame. The framework is covered with Japanese paper and has a handle attached to the bottom. You can hold the handle in one hand and fan yourself. The part of the fan made of Japanese paper usually has drawings of summery things such as morning glories or other things that look cool and refreshing. People trying to keep cool have traditionally used round fans in the hot and humid season in Japan.

団扇は浴衣を着たときに手に持つ小物で、千年以上前に中国から伝えられました。竹(骨組みおよび柄の部分)と和紙を材料とし、骨組みは丸形の枠とその中に縦に渡した20〜30本の骨でできており、その両面に和紙を張って柄を付け、扇いで風を起こします。和紙の部分には朝顔などの季節の花や涼しげな絵が描かれることが多く、日本の夏にふさわしい涼を取るための伝統的な小物の一つとされています。