Spinning tops, known as koma in Japanese, are one of the oldest and most richly varied toys in the world. Japan, in particular, is known for its numerous regional varieties. Download our activity sheet to learn how to make two types of koma from a classic square origami design, and enjoy watching them spin.
This activity sheet was created with support from the Japan Toy Museum in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture.
Spinning tops from the collections of the Japan Toy Museum are one of the design treasures featured in Japan House London’s gallery exhibition, Design Discoveries: Towards a Design Museum Japan, on display from 15 May to 8 September 2024.
Share your completed spinning tops on social media using #japanhouselondon and tag us @japanhouseldn.