What is a Japanese Edo Kite and what makes it unique? If you are looking for information on what  makes a Japanese Edo Kite so special, then read on! Remember, an educated shopper is a happy shopper!

What Does “Edo” Mean?

In order to understand what Edo means, it is important to know that the Japanese language uses multiple words to mean the same concepts. The word “Edo” (also referred to or pronounced as “Yedo” or “Yeddo”) also refers to Tokyo or “a floating world.”

Edo is the former name for Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo was the seat of power for the Tokugawa Shogunate, which ruled Japan from 1603 to 1868. Tokyo has grown to become one of the largest cities in the world and is home to an urban culture centered on the notion of a “floating world”.

What is a “Floating World”?

The designs of the Japanese Edo Kite reflect what the Japanese call “a floating world.” The Japanese were very interested in preserving their traditions and histories, along with reflecting their current cultures and struggles. To do this, they depicted the images of Tokyo on their kites.

Japan’s “floating world” was a reference used for only the middle class. The term “floating world” was used to describe only the middle class of Japan. The middle class of Japan frequented many brothels and underground, illegal sites. The “floating world” is often the feature most commonly depicted on Japanese Edo kites.

Japanese Edo Kite Features

A high flying paper creation that climbs to astronomical heights. Japanese Edo kites float gracefully and aerodynamically across the sky with grace and speed! The art depicted on Japanese Edo kites often hand painted, traditionally depicts warriors and symbols of good luck. Edo kites are traditionally painted by artisan masters, like Pete from Pete’s Kite Shop.

Why are Japanese Edo kites unique?

Japanese Edo kites are made with a meticulously designed and hand crafted framework, then hand painted to show the artists tribute to their message. Using artisan designs and inspiring renditions of battles stories and themes as well as symbols and words to tell their story, each Japanese Edo kite is a work of art and one of a kind!

Pete’s Japanese Edo Kites

Pete’s Kite Shop respects and celebrates the Japanese culture by recreating the Japanese Edo kite. Pete’s Kite Shop hold strong to the quality and design format used since ancient times. There is a certain delight in flying a Japanese Edo kite that can take your imagination soaring!

Shop at Pete’s Kite Shop today to get a one of a kind, hand crafted Edo Kite!