Types of Japanese Fans

There are two basic types of Japanese fans, the flat fan or uchiwa and the folding fan or sensu / ogi. The uchiwa consisted of a circular frame over which paper or silk was stretched.  It is believed to have originated from China. 

The sensu, on the other hand, is considered a Japanese invention.  It has developed into a wide variety of styles, shapes, sizes and uses.  Its two basic forms are the brise fan and the folding paper fan. 

Japanese fans can also be classified as to their use:

• The Court fan or hiougi uses cypress board put in many layers as a material, bounded by silk.  There were cypress fans for men and women.  The cypress fans of men are of plain white cypress board and was used to record while the cypress fans of women are of fancy colors with intricate designs and used for fashion.  It is primarily a symbol of rank and status.
• The Bat fan or kawahori was so called due to its shape which when unfolded looks like a bat.  It was used by priests, nobles and oracles. 
• The Decoration fan is used as display on alcoves and walls.
• The Summer fan is used especially during the hot and humid Tokyo summer.
• The Iron / War fan or gunbai uchiwa was used in the war to command or give signal to troops.  They are sometimes used in martial arts.
• There are special fans for special events like wedding ceremonies or funerals.
• The dance fans are fans used in Japanese traditional dances which can differ in several places in Japan.
• Tea parties also require a specific kind of fan.

Japanese fans are evidently part of the Japanese culture as can be seen on the way new types of fan continue to evolve with the changing times.