"Uchiwa" or round fan is an icon for summer season in Japan and is a Japanese traditional handicraft. It is made by cutting a bamboo into narrow splinters which are then splayed out in the radial shape of a fan. These in the photo are colorful "Kyo Uchiwa" from Kyoto. Its origin is very old, introduced by Chinese back in The Nara Period (645 - 794). Back then Uchiwa was used not only for cooling purpose but also used as ceremonial accessories by the aristocracy as its designs become more intricate. (Photo: copyright 2009 Sankei Digital Inc.)
Here are some of the beautiful uchiwas I found...
morning glory
bunnies (I love the long wooden handle)
and a black fish -- for kids!
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