Why You Need to Try Kendama

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Top photo: stux  on Pixabay

Over the past 10 years, a traditional wooden toy has been making a resurgence throughout Japan. You may have seen it in stores or on TV. You may even have seen children (or adults) playing with one!

The toy is called “Kendama” (けん玉, “sword [and] ball”) and to the uninitiated, it’s just two cups, a spike and a ball attached to a string. However to a practitioner of kendama, it’s much more. It’s a lifestyle, a tool for connecting with others, a game, a way to pass the time, and even a good form of exercise of both mind and body.

The origins of kendama are debated, but it is said to have originated during the 17th or 18th century. A variant of the French cup-and-ball game Bilboquet, it was brought to Japan via the Silk Road and quickly developed into the homegrown variant we know today. Kendama has been evolving since the Edo period and today, you can find it being played not only in Japan, but all over the world.

It’s even played professionally and, unlike the traditional game, has a carefully-crafted set of rules to follow. There are many different play styles and designs, and the ‘kendama community’ connects through SNS, united by a love of the game.

Now, you’re probably thinking, “So what? That still doesn’t explain why I should get one.” And you’re absolutely correct. But once you start playing, even just a little, you can see the benefits that a kendama can have in your life. To name a few:

1. Playing kendama can improve dexterity and hand-eye coordination. There are many different tricks with varying degrees of difficulty that you can try to land.

2. You can play kendama alone or in a group with friends. A simple game of ‘ken can have you and your friends challenging each other to reach new heights.

3. Increase your heart rate and get some exercise anywhere, with kendama. Some tricks require you to bend your knees and move your body. Others require you to have balance and precise form.

4. You can play kendama almost anywhere! No batteries or 4G necessary!

There are many types of kendama and styles of play to choose from and as you improve your skills you can find one that suits you. But, if you’re looking for something to kill the time or connect with Japanese culture in a different way, definitely get a kendama.

Just be careful of the downspike; it can be dangerous!

Photo Credits:

Top photo: stux  on Pixabay

All other content (text) created by the original author and © 2021 MUSUBI by Borderlink

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Adam Daniel

From Canada.
Has lived in Japan for over 11 years. Loves Osaka!