Types of Folding Fans
Summer Fans (Natsusensu)
These are traditional folding fans used to create a cooling breeze in summer. Generally divided into men’s and women’s styles, they come in various sizes and rib counts. Many designs feature seasonal motifs such as flowers, plants, birds, or animals. Types include:
Dance Fans (Maisensu)
These fans are primarily used in traditional Japanese dance. Because they are often flipped and turned during performances, most dance fans feature identical patterns on both sides. To enhance their visual impact on stage, many designs include intricate detailing in gold and silver.
Tea Ceremony Fans (Chaseki Sensu)
Small folding fans used in tea ceremonies. They are placed in front of the guest when viewing scrolls or utensils, serving as a symbolic boundary. They may also be used in place of a tray when offering monetary gifts or messages during the ceremony.
Ceremonial Fans (Shūgi Sensu)
Used for formal occasions such as weddings, funerals, and coming-of-age ceremonies, these fans are considered part of traditional formal attire. Women’s fans often feature gold or silver to reflect celebration, while men’s fans are typically plain with simple white surfaces.
Decorative Fans (Kazari Sensu)
These fans are designed for display in alcoves or entranceways. In traditional Japanese homes, which were once lit by candles or lanterns at night, fans with gold or silver surfaces helped reflect and amplify light—making these colors a lasting part of the decorative tradition.
