Woodstock Chimes Signature Collection, Chimes of Kyoto, 25'' Wind Chimes for Outdoor & Garden Décor

Named after the Chionin Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for housing one of the world's largest ringing bells, this elegant and lively wind chime embodies the spirit of its namesake. Weighing an impressive 74 tons, the temple bell requires the coordinated effort of 17 monks to ring. Sixteen monks pull ropes to raise a massive wooden hammer, while a seventeenth monk rides the hammer, using his legs to push off just before it strikes the bell. This intricate ritual occurs annually during New Year's, filling the air with reverberating tones for a remarkable 20 minutes.

Contrasting with the monumental scale of the Chionin bell, the Woodstock Chimes of Kyoto offer a serene and accessible musical experience. Crafted to evoke the melodic tones of the Japanese Koto, these chimes resonate effortlessly with even a gentle breeze. Designed over three decades ago by Grammy award-winning musician Garry Kvistad, the first Woodstock Chime emerged from an unlikely source—a discarded aluminum lawn chair salvaged from a landfill. Inspired by the ancient pentatonic Scale of Olympos, which defies replication on modern pianos, Kvistad meticulously tuned the chair's tubes to match its resonant frequencies. The resulting Chimes of Olympos not only became the inaugural Woodstock Chime but also remains one of their most beloved and musically precise offerings.

Founded in 1979 by Garry and his wife Diane, Woodstock Chimes remains a family-owned enterprise nestled in New York's picturesque Hudson Valley. Dedicated to crafting quality wind chimes, their creations are celebrated for their harmonious blend of craftsmanship and musicality.

The Woodstock Chimes of Kyoto, tuned to a bright ancient Japanese scale akin to early zither instruments, embody the company's commitment to both aesthetic beauty and enduring quality. Fashioned from cherry wood and featuring five silver tubes, these chimes measure 25 inches in length from the top of the gather ring to the bottom of the wind catcher. Their exquisite finish ensures years of enjoyment whether hung in a garden, near a door, or given as a thoughtful gift.

In summary, the Woodstock Chimes of Kyoto harmonize tradition, craftsmanship, and musical precision, reflecting Garry Kvistad's innovative spirit and passion for creating enduring musical experiences.

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