Kyo Koma “Toro Yama” – Gion Matsuri / no.2157

Toro Yama of the Gion Matsuri, Reimagined as a Kyo Koma

This colorful Kyo Koma (Kyoto spinning top) is inspired by Toro Yama, one of the distinctive floats of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri Festival.

Toro Yama takes its name and inspiration from the Chinese story known as “The Mantis’s Axe.” Its origin is associated with Shijo Takasuke, a court noble of the Nanboku-cho period, whose courageous stand against the forces of Ashikaga Yoshiakira was likened to a mantis boldly raising its forelegs against a powerful opponent.

Toro Yama is distinguished by a large praying mantis perched atop an imperial carriage. On the actual festival float, both the mantis and the wheels of the carriage move through a mechanical karakuri mechanism—the only such moving mechanism among the floats of the Gion Matsuri.

This Kyo Koma captures the unique and playful appearance of Toro Yama using the colorful threads characteristic of traditional Kyo Koma.

Kyo Koma are traditional Kyoto spinning tops made by winding bundles of dyed cotton thread around a core. The layers of colorful thread create beautiful striped patterns, giving each piece its distinctive appearance.

The spinning top on the upper part can be removed and actually spun. Enjoy it as a decorative piece or as a traditional Kyo Koma.

A unique piece that brings together the festive spirit of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and the craftsmanship of Kyo Koma.

Material
Cotton cord, wood

Size
To be confirmed

Packaging
Paper box

Please Note
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in color and finish may occur.