INI

Japanese Traditional Games - INI

Japanese traditional games are cultural heritage passed down through a long history. There are many games using tools or body movements, such as kendama (cup-and-ball), koma (spinning top), ayatori (cat's cradle), otedama (beanbag juggling), karuta (card game), and fukuwarai (face-making game). These games play an important role in developing children's physical abilities, concentration, and social skills, while also conveying Japanese traditional culture. Many of these games are enjoyed as traditional New Year activities, and some have developed into competitive sports even today.

traditional games New Year children's games Japanese culture folk art toys

[item.kendama]
code=01
slug=kendama
name=Kendama (Cup-and-Ball)
description=A game where a wooden ball attached by a string is caught on cups or a spike on a handle.
category=Tool-based games
origin=France (16th century), popularized in Japan during Edo period
players=1 to multiple players

[item.koma]
code=02
slug=koma
name=Koma (Spinning Top)
description=A game where wooden or metal tops are spun with string or by hand, competing for duration or tricks.
category=Tool-based games
origin=Japan (around 6th century), originated in Egypt (4000 years ago)
players=1 to multiple players

[item.ayatori]
code=03
slug=ayatori
name=Ayatori (Cat's Cradle)
description=A game where a string is looped around fingers to create various shapes.
category=String games
origin=Japan (since ancient times)
players=1 to 2 players

[item.otedama]
code=04
slug=otedama
name=Otedama (Beanbag Juggling)
description=A game where small beanbags filled with beans or beads are tossed and rhythmically caught.
category=Tool-based games
origin=Lydia (around 5th century BC), introduced to Japan during Nara period
players=1 to multiple players

[item.karuta]
code=05
slug=karuta
name=Karuta (Card Game)
description=A card game using reading cards and grabbing cards.
category=Card game
origin=Portugal (16th century), developed uniquely in Japan
players=2 to multiple players

[item.fukuwarai]
code=06
slug=fukuwarai
name=Fukuwarai (Face-Making Game)
description=A game where players place face parts while blindfolded.
category=New Year games
origin=Japan (Meiji period)
players=2 to multiple players