ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Bonshō

Okay, kiddo! Bonshō is a big bell used in Japan for special ceremonies and events. It is made of metal, like iron or bronze, and is really heavy!

The bell is shaped like a dome and has a clapper inside that makes it ring loudly when it is struck with a big wooden stick called a "hibashi." The sound of the bell is really deep and reverberates for a long time!

Bonshō bells are often found in Buddhist temples and are considered very important. They are rung to call people to prayer or meditation, to mark the beginning and end of a day, or to announce special events like weddings or funerals.

Making a bonshō bell is a really complex process that involves lots of skilled craftsmen working together. It can take many months to complete one bell, but when it is finished, it is a beautiful work of art that will last for many years.

So that's what a bonshō is, kiddo! A big, heavy bell that is used for special occasions and is considered very important in Japanese culture.
Related topics others have asked about: