Discover the ancient Japanese art of koma — the spinning top — brought to life in three traditional styles, each with its own character and little bit of magic. From the simplicity of the classic Edo-goma to the mid-spin flip-over theatrics of the Sakari-goma, these delightful mini spinning tops celebrate a craft that has captured imaginations in Japan for hundreds of years.
Archaeological finds confirm that koma spinning tops have been in Japan since the early 6th and 7th centuries, likely introduced from China. By the Heian Period (794 - 1185), they had become a part of everyday life, with the definition of "koma" appearing in dictionaries. During the Edo Period (1603–1868), spinning tops were a common form of play within the imperial court circles, as well as in the streets. When their popularity extended into competitive spinning and gambling, it even prompted repeated restrictions by the Tokugawa shogunate.
Today, Japanese spinning tops are often associated with the New Year, and still hand-finished with stripes of traditional Japanese colours. Their balanced, enduring motion is seen as a symbol of stability, smooth progress, and good fortune. They might be seen as playthings, but they're also great meditative tools that adults and children can enjoy.
Edo-goma - A Classic
Slim, elegant, and perfectly weighted, the Edo-goma delivers a smooth, long-lasting, mesmerising spin.
Zunguri-goma - The Disc
Low, wide, and also hypnotically stable, the Zunguri-goma's flattened disc body lowers the centre of gravity for an extended, hover-spin.
Sakari-goma - The Flip
Spin it and watch it jump and flip over to swivel on its stem like a swirling lolipop. The Sakari-goma inverts mid-spin, a surprising and fun trick of gyroscopic physics.
Beech wood
Edo-goma: Diameter 3cm x Height 3cm
Zunguri-goma: Diameter 3.1cm x Height 3.5cm
Sakari-goma: Diameter 2.8 cm x Height 3.5cm
Made in Japan
