Kusari-doi, or rain chains, originated in Japan. Valued for many reasons, rain chain gutters eventually became an integral part of Japanese gardens and homes before spreading to the West and East. Here, we define rain chains and explore their characteristics and benefits, as well as why they are becoming a preferred substitute for home gutters around the world.
Table of Contents
Defining the rain chain
Rain chain characteristics
Kusari-doi benefits
Rain chain orders
Defining the rain chain
Rain chains were first used in temples and shrines in Japan to direct water away from building roofs. As the rain ran down the decorative chains from open gutters, it created a beautiful visual display on its way into ground-level containers. There, the water collected and was used for spiritual cleansing rituals and garden beds.
Rain chain characteristics
Types of rain chains
Rain chains are functional and add to a visually appealing space outdoors. The Japanese capitalized on these elements by creating rain gutters in different designs, which have expanded over time.
- Link rain chains are a common design and are made from a series of loop links. These form chains of different thicknesses and lengths. You will find various link shapes, such as rectangle links, double loops, small or large link rain chain designs, and other styles. Order the chain design and length that you need for a simple yet stunning design that blends with your home’s architectural style.
- Cup rain chains are popular choices that hang on a central cable, directing water downwards to a receptacle. These cup designs may be simple or complex. They can also consist of round, pointed, or square cups with motifs or smooth surfaces. Manufacturers typically produce this style in small, medium, and large cups to match various homes and the natural environment.
- You will find high-quality modern rain chains with themes, too. These themed products feature endearing items such as fish, birds, animals, bowls, flowers, leaves, origami, umbrellas, and other shapes.
- Customize your design by combining various cup and flower shapes for an aesthetic appeal in any outdoor space. Remember to specify the length of the rain chain to meet architectural requirements.
Rain chain materials
A lot of thought goes into producing the perfect rain chain. As such, you will find a variety of rain chains using natural materials and inspiration from nature and natural materials in designs:
- Good quality brass is an ideal material to use outdoors due to its corrosion resistance. Besides these characteristics, its beautiful hue blends well with natural surroundings.
- Copper rivals brass in its warm hues, and like this metal, it is robust. Besides, the beauty of copper rain chains complements most homes, making this weather-resistant option an excellent outdoor décor choice.
- Stainless steel is also known for its durability. This material brings a contemporary decorative element into exterior decor plans as the light and water flow over silver chains and cups produce an attractive show.
- Aluminum is similar to stainless steel in that it is weatherproof and resistant to rust, so it is perfect in high rainfall regions and at the coast. As with stainless steel, aluminum introduces an alternative visual experience in the garden.
- Glass and ceramic rain chains are possible alternatives that generate a rustic feel in outdoor spaces. Similarly, broken cups and rain chains made from materials such as terracotta, seashells, and driftwood are also great options.
Rain chain accessories
Chain gutters direct water downwards from roofs, so planters or other containers beneath them are used to collect the water. Choose ones that match your home’s exterior appearance, landscaping, and climate, and eliminate Western gutter cleaning requirements.
Aside from containers, you can explore rain chain installation kits, link chain reducers, debris blockers for rain chains, corner leader heads, anchor kits, basins, and other accessories to get the most out of this product.
Maintaining rain chains
Pick your rain chains wisely, as many are not designed for weather extremes like exceptionally strong winds or heavy downpours. However, if you use rain chains in regions where this weather is infrequent, maintaining rain chains is much less labor-intensive than traditional western-style guttering.
All it takes to maintain your kusari-doi is to remove debris regularly and wash it with a mild solution of soap and water when necessary. If you have copper or brass rain chains, there is no need to polish them as the verdigris generated by oxidation adds to their allure.
However, it is advisable to make regular inspections, especially after heavy rain. Make necessary repairs if you notice any damage that can impact the efficacy of your rain chain.
Another big advantage that rain chains have over fixed gutters is that they are removable. If you expect severe winter snow and ice, simply remove and store them until the rainy season starts again.
Kusari-doi benefits
Japanese culture is known to revere a tranquil atmosphere. You can enjoy a similar ambiance from the gentle sound of water running over a beautifully crafted chain instead of modern gutter downspouts. Other enjoyable benefits of the kusari-doi include the following:
Decorative: A decorative rain chain is a piece of art, so it immediately enhances the beauty of outdoor spaces, similar to wind chimes.
Multifunctional: Other than the visual appeal of this water feature enhancing outdoor décor for homeowners, rain chains are practical. They redirect water away from the house into the garden or containers, protecting the home and saving water for later use.
Architecturally adaptable: You can buy existing rain chain gutters or design your own to match any architectural style. This design versatility also means that you can replace rain chain gutters over time to meet changing style preferences.
Relaxing atmosphere: Watching rain run or drip down kusari-doi has a calming effect. Similarly, listening to the water sound flowing while relaxing on a patio is soothing.
Better water management: Rain chains aren’t limited to house downspouts. You can build innovative water management systems by erecting various structures and rain chains around the house. You can connect these to ponds, water fountains, garden areas, or hothouses to improve water harvesting integration and save bills.
Informative: You can use rain chains to demonstrate water flows to young people and explain how rain and water flow fit in with the overall water cycle in the atmosphere.
Low maintenance and durability: Rain chains are cost-effective and simpler to maintain than traditional western gutters and last for decades.
Rain chain orders
Japanese rain chains are an ideal alternative to traditional gutter downspouts found in other countries. Because they are foreign yet appealing garden products, you can go through the Alibaba.com website to find the ones that you like.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can always discuss a custom-made product according to your personal design requirements. While on the site, customers should explore all the exquisite accessories that go along with rain chain gutters. In that way, they can create an authentic Japanese garden where they can escape to experience tranquil moments.
