Tombo Dragonfly – The Symbol of the Samurai

Tombo or dragonfly is a symbol used by the samurai that represents “never give up”, since they never fly “backwards”. Very inspiring!

The “Tombo” design is probably the oldest in Japan and can be found depicted on pots and plates from early eras.

The Nihon Shoki (History of Japan, compiled in AD 720) is the second oldest book on Japanese history. It is referred to in it as akitsu , which was how dragonflies were known at the time.

The chronicles say that Emperor Jimmu climbed a mountain in Nara Prefecture, and mentioned that “the shape of my country is two Akitsu mating “

Many times the samurai used them in fabrics and ornaments that show tombo designs, as a reminder not to give up.

In the Studio Ghibli movie “Kiki’s Delivery Service” there comes a boy from the city, named Tombo, who loves aviation and has sincere respect for Kiki’s power to fly. Perhaps this is why it is called that, honoring the perseverance of a tombo since he does not give up on winning Kiki’s friendship, since she initially rejects him ^^