Traditional Japanese Games

Japan, with its rich history and deep-rooted culture, offers a multitude of traditional games that have gone through centuries. These games are not just hobbies; They are also reflections of society, values and skills transmitted from generation to generation. Let’s explore some of the most emblematic traditional Japanese games and their cultural importance.

Company Games

Shōgi

The Shōgi, often called Japanese chess, is a complex strategy game that is played on a 9×9-box set. Each player has 20 pieces with specific movements, whose abilities can evolve once promoted. Shōgi’s unique ability to allow the reintroduction of captured pieces as its own forces adds a dynamic strategic dimension absent from Western failures. Shōgi is not only a game but also a valued mental exercise in Japanese culture.

Go

Originally from China, Go has become a game deeply integrated into Japanese culture. Played on a 19×19 line board, players alternately place black and white stones with the goal of controlling as much territory as possible. The Go is known for its simplicity of rules contrasting with strategic depth, making each part a new exploration of infinite possibilities. In Japan, Go is considered an art, and its practice is often associated with Zen philosophy, highlighting patience and reflection.

Sugoroku (

Sugoroku is an ancient journey game that exists in two main forms: Ban-Sugoroku, similar to Western dice games, and e-Sugoroku, illustrated and educational. E-Sugoroku was particularly popular during the Edo period, often used to teach children history and morality through colorful images and captivating stories.

Card games

Hanafuda

Hanafuda cards are small and illustrated with floral motifs representing the twelve months of the year. Various games can be played with these cards, the most popular being Koi-Koi. Hanafuda is not only a game, but also a work of art, each card being carefully decorated. This game is played especially during parties and family reunions, strengthening ties and perpetuating traditions.

Karuta

Karuta is an educational card game, often used to teach Japanese literature and poetry. Hyakunin Isshu Karuta, based on an anthology of a hundred classical poems, is one of his most famous variants. Players listen to the reading of poems and must quickly find and enter the corresponding card. This game develops memory and speed, while familiarizing players with traditional poetry.

Outdoor Games

Kendama (

The Kendama is a wooden toy made of a ball attached to a handle with three cuts and a tip. The goal is to land the ball in the different cuts or on the tip. Kendama asks for dexterity, coordination and patience, making its practice a fun and educational activity. Today, it has also become a competitive sport with impressive laps and performances.

Hanetsuki

Like badminton, the Hanetsuki is played without a net, using a decorated wooden racket and a steering wheel. This game is traditionally played during the New Year, and it is common to see children playing in kimono. Hanetsuki is not only an entertainment but also a way to wish each other good luck for the coming year.

Tako

The kite, or Tako, is a popular activity at festivals, especially during New Year’s Eve and the Boys’ Festival in May. Japanese kites are often decorated with traditional designs and good fortune symbols. Flying a kite is a visual show that attracts families and communities to celebrate together.

Koma

• Traditional toupies.

Salon and Puzzle Games

Ayatori (

Ayatori, similar to the Western “cat’s Cradle”, is a string game where participants create various shapes by passing a string loop between their fingers. This game promotes dexterity and creativity, often played by children and adults.

Fukuwarai

Fukuwarai, played mainly during the New Year, consists of placing the parts of the face (eyes, nose, mouth) on a figure while having blindfolded eyes. The result is often hilarious and symbolizes luck and happiness for the new year.

Daruma Otoshi

This game consists of hitting wooden blocks under a Daruma figure without knocking it down. It requires precision and strategy, symbolizing perseverance and determination.

Traditional and seasonal games

1. Otedama
   1. A juggling game with small bags of beans.
2. Kendama (
   1. A wooden toy similar to the bilboquet.
3. Taketombo (
   1. A bamboo toy that flies like a helicopter when it is thrown into the air.

Other games and activities

1. Menko
   1. A game where players launch thick cards to try to return those of the opponent.
2. Janken
   1. The game of “Pierre, Papier, Scissors”, often used to decide something.
3. Beigoma
   1. A game of metal toupies competing in an arena.
4. Omikuji
   1. Although it is more a form of divination, people draw strips of paper to know their fortune, often during visits to shrines.

Traditional Japanese games are much more than entertainment; They are essential elements of Japan’s culture and history. They transmit values, skills and traditions that endure through generations. Whether it’s board games, cards, outdoors or living room games, each one offers a unique insight into Japan’s cultural richness and continues to captivate young and old minds, bringing joy and wisdom in everyday life.

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