The very best of
traditional Japanese kites by
Mikio Toki

Japanese traditional kites are among the most beautiful and sought-after in the world.

From the giants of Showamachi and Shirone, to the maneuverable Hatas of Nagasaki, to the battling rokkakus of Sanjo, each area of Japan has developed a different style of kite design. In Japanese, a kite is called a "tako". But when you refer to a specific kind of kite, like a delta-kite for example, you call it a "dako". So a kite style from Tokyo, formerly known as Edo, is called an Edo-dako. (Some people incorrectly call any rectangular Japanese kite an 'Edo".)

GKPI has made arrangements to acquire one of the most popular kites in Japan: the venerable Edo. The best known contemporary crafter of this tako is Mikio Toki. We are proud to call him a friend and pleased to offer these wonderful kites to you.

Edo Kites

Japanese Edo Kites by Mikio Toki:

Wonderfully crafted art pieces featuring a variety of traditional scenes, warriors, and Kabuki characters. Hand painted by Mikio Toki - one of the few remaining masters of Edo kite painting. Fly them, or frame them.

Toki San's kites range in price from $60 to more than $1500 depending on size. Larger sizes or different designs can be special ordered.

We currently offer five Toki designs. To minimize shipping costs, we take delivery only twice a year. Please call or email to make sure we have your preference in stock.

Normally these pieces cost about $90, but by special arrangement, (and thanks to a terrible exchange rate for the Japanese) we have them available now for just $60 each or all five for $250. The finished size, with spars and bridle, is 15 x 21 inches. Colors are stunning.

Click on the image for a larger view.

Watonai Wave Daruma Suke Roku Wave and Crane

  • Watonai: fierce Samurai warrior.
  • Wave: traditional Japanese scene
  • Daruma: traditional monk design with illuminated eyes
  • Suke Roku: traditional Kabuki hero
  • Wave and Crane: similar to wave but with crane flying over the water

    Toki at Work

    For more information on the stories behind these designs, visit our Japanese Kite Art pages.

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