Diabolo: China’s Traditional Yo-Yo

Diabolo is traditionally made from bamboo and wood. Its hollow wheels give it the name “diabolo”. It is particularly well known in Beijing and Tianjin. 

Diabolos generally come in single-wheel and double-wheel varieties. The double-wheel version is shaped like an hourglass, with a flat, round wheel at each end. Each wheel is hollow and contains four or five small holes fitted with bamboo whistles, while the two wheels are connected by an axle. The single-wheel version resembles a spinning top, with a wheel on one side. 

There are various theories about its origins, but there is no doubt that diabolo has a long history. Detailed records of how to make and play it appeared during the Ming Dynasty. It was originally an amusement enjoyed in the imperial court before spreading to the general public and becoming a pastime for people of all ages. In 2006, diabolo playing was included in the first batch of China’s national intangible cultural heritage. 

To play diabolo, the performer holds two handsticks connected by a cotton string, wraps the string around the axle, and pulls it back and forth to make the diabolo spin and produce a clear, sustained whistling sound. 

As players manipulate the diabolo and perform different tricks with both hands, their arms and legs, as well as their neck and lower back, are engaged simultaneously. With regular practice, diabolo can help improve circulation, coordination, and agility. Today, skilled older players can often be seen making diabolos whirl and leap through the air on their strings in parks, while in many schools, diabolo has become a popular activity for students during breaks.