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The Embassy of Japan and Nepal Art Council, supported by the Japan Foundation, jointly hold the exhibition of "Japanese Kites and Tops" from February 8 to 17, at Nepal Art Council Gallery. Mr. Tsutomu Hiraoka, Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Nepal and Mr. Kirti Nidhi Bista, President of Nepal Art Council inaugurated the exhibition on Monday, February 7.

Kite flying and spinning tops have been popular in Japan since its introduction some 2,000 years ago. Traditional kites are usually made of rice paper and bamboo and beautifully decorated with different shapes or symbols such as fish, birds, dragons or portraits of historical and religious figures. They are flown on festive occasions; mainly during New Year festivals.

Likewise, spinning tops also share popularity. Around 1,000 different kinds are made in Japan. The range varies from simple to elaborate and sizes vary from a tiny 0.5 mm to a huge 90 cm unique spinning top. Some of the cylindrical tops have a slit in the center, producing a humming sound when in motion

The Exhibition presents 95 kites and 78 tops originating from different prefectures and cities in Japan and reflects traditional Japanese culture.