spinning top
Japanese Name:
独楽
Romaji Name:
koma
Description
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A koma is a traditional Japanese spinning top toy made of wood or metal. It is spun by twisting a string around it and pulling quickly, causing it to spin on its pointed tip. Koma tops are popular in Japanese culture and often used in games and competitions.
History
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Spinning tops have been used as toys in many cultures for thousands of years, with early examples found in ancient Greece, Rome, and China. In Japan, koma have been played with since at least the Edo period (1603–1868). Various types of koma were developed, including tops spun by hand, by string, or using a launch mechanism.
Koma are often associated with New Year celebrations and traditional games in Japan, and they remain a symbol of skill and childhood play.