The Chinese YoYo

A Toy of Many Names…

• One name for the Chinese Yo-Yo is:“Xiang huang”In Chinese its

• In English it means: “empty bell”, “pulling bell” and “wind bell”

• Its European relative is called the “diablo”

What does it look like? What’s it made of?

• It’s barbell-shaped and hollow

• It moves on a string• Traditionally made out of

bamboo and wood• Now is made of plastic and

a steel rod.

The History

Who invented the Chinese Yo-Yo?

There is no known inventor.

How long has it been around?

The Chinese Yo-Yo was first discovered in the Ming Dynasty

(1386 – 1644 A.D.)

Why was it used?

• In ancient times it was used by performers at festivals and in Northern China, as a form of spring recreation and family time.

• In Modern times, it is used for juggling and ethnic dance.

• It is used for play, do tricks, and exercise.

How does it work?

• Unlike a regular yo-yo, it is not attached to a string

• The player uses two sticks to move it

• It can be tossed from player to player

• It can make different sounds depending on how fast it moves

Did You Know?• The size of the Chinese yo-

yo and the number of holes gives you a different pitch or sound.

• The Chinese Yo-Yo is the 2nd oldest toy after the doll.

• There is another toy called a “Chinese yo-yo that has a roll of colored paper and a plastic handle that unwinds when it is flung out.