Ceiling fabric lantern, Tempura

Ceiling lantern, Made in China

Supplied without electrical device.

The chōchin (提 灯) has a frame of split bamboo wrapped in a spiral. Paper or silk protect the flame from the wind. The spiral structure allows it to be folded. In present-day Japan, the chōchin is made of plastic with light bulbs generally corresponding to the luminous signs in front of shops in Japanese cities. The akachōchin, or red lantern, is found in front of taverns, sake bars or izakaya. These lanterns are also used during religious rituals or hung in front of temples.