Introduction
If you're into Japanese culture, you've probably seen a snapshot or two of a couple of people on a serene Japanese street, rackets in hand, playing a badminton-like game without a net.
You can't help but notice the pure joy in their faces.
This game is called Hanetsuki (羽根突き), a symbol of simple, joyous fun that's been cherished in Japan for generations.
Let's explore the ins and outs of this refreshingly simple and joyful game…
New Year's Joy
Image source: We Are Japan
Hanetsuki has been around since the 14th century, born in the Muromachi period. It is believed to have been inspired by the Chinese game of Jianzi and the Indian game of Poona, the latter being the precursor to modern badminton.
What started as a hit with the aristocrats soon caught on with the masses, especially during the Edo era.
Playing Hanetsuki during Shogatsu, the New Year's festivities, was thought to be a magical charm against evil spirits and illness in the coming year.
- Fun Fact: The Japanese also believed this game could ward off mosquitoes – a bit like spiritual bug spray!
Back in the Edo era, the birth of a girl in a samurai family was celebrated with a Hagoita. This act soon became a custom among people, turning Hagoita into the go-to year-end gift for families with daughters. It was almost like the lucky charm of the season.
No Nets, No Scores, Just Fun!
Princess Kaguya Hagoita Set available at ZenPlus
Hanetsuki is played with a rectangular paddle called a hagoita and a shuttlecock known as a hane.
The hagoita is typically made of wood and covered with a layer of firm fabric, often decorated with elaborate designs. The hane is a small, round object with a base made of a heavy material like metal or wood, and a skirt made from feathers.
The main objective? Keep the hane in the air for as long as humanly possible!
The game can be played by two players or by a single player. In a two-player game, the players stand at a distance and hit the shuttlecock back and forth. There are no nets or boundaries, and the play continues until the shuttlecock falls to the ground. In the solo variation, a single player tries to keep the shuttlecock airborne for as many hits as possible.
Unlike badminton, Hanetsuki does not have a standardized court or scoring system, making it more of a recreational activity than a competitive sport.
Who'd have thought a Japanese game could be so simple? Hanetsuki’s easy rules mean everyone from kids to seniors can get in on the fun!
More Than a Game
Hagoita Decoration available at ZenPlus
Think Hanetsuki is just a game? Think again.
Those hagoita paddles are the stars of the show, adorned with various designs. They're not just for playing – they're collectible works of art, flaunting Japan's knack for detailed craftsmanship and artistry.
Sure, Hanetsuki might not be the go-to game these days, what with all the modern distractions and high-tech entertainment out there, but it's still got its own simple charm and pure joy, especially around the New Year.
It's a cultural gateway for the younger generation and a staple at festivals!
Community Spirit in Hanetsuki
What's not to love about Hanetsuki? It's simple, gets you moving, and is all about fun. This game is a winner for boosting hand-eye coordination and keeping fit, and you don't even need a fancy setup.
Plus, when you play it with others, it's like you're building your own little community, right there in the middle of the fun. Group play turns it into a social event, knitting people together in enjoyment and community spirit.
Japan Is Closer Than You Think
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