Hyakunin Isshu might be a term you often hear during the New Year season in Japan. While it’s famously associated with a competitive card game, it’s much more than just a fun activity—it’s a treasure trove of Japanese culture and history.
Let’s explore what Hyakunin Isshu is, how to play the card game, why it’s a classic New Year tradition, and even introduce you to a simpler variation called Bōzu Mekuri, which kids and foreigners can enjoy just as much. By the end, you’ll be eager to give it a try yourself!
Bozu Mekuri is so much fun!!
I would like you to know about it and try it!
What Is Hyakunin Isshu?
Hyakunin Isshu, or “One Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets,” is an anthology of Japanese waka poems compiled during the Kamakura period by the poet Fujiwara no Teika. It consists of one poem each from 100 poets, spanning approximately 550 years, from Emperor Tenchi to Emperor Juntoku.
These poems reflect themes like love, nature, and the changing seasons, offering a glimpse into the refined lives and emotions of Japan’s aristocrats. The beauty of Hyakunin Isshu lies in its ability to connect us to Japan’s literary heritage, while also being a source of entertainment through its card game adaptation.
How to Play the Hyakunin Isshu Card Game
The Hyakunin Isshu card game, also known as Karuta, is simple but challenging. Here’s a quick rundown of the rules:
- Two types of cards are used:
- Yomifuda (reading cards): These display the entire poem.
- Torifuda (grabbing cards): These show only the second half of each poem.
- Spread the torifuda cards face-up on the playing surface.
- A reader randomly reads a yomifuda card aloud.
- Players race to grab the corresponding torifuda card that matches the second half of the poem.
- The player with the most cards at the end wins.
This fast-paced game combines memory, reflexes, and knowledge of poetry, making it a thrilling challenge for players of all ages.
The reader usually reads the card with a melody.
If you are interested in how people read, check the video below.
If you want to try Hyakunin Isshu, I recommend this one!
This Hyakunin Isshu set comes with an automatic reading function, so there’s no need for a reader. You can enjoy it even on your own, making it perfect for practice!
![[商品価格に関しましては、リンクが作成された時点と現時点で情報が変更されている場合がございます。]](https://hbb.afl.rakuten.co.jp/hgb/1965681f.4d933bf3.19656821.78af0898/?me_id=1205798&item_id=10063506&pc=https%3A%2F%2Fthumbnail.image.rakuten.co.jp%2F%400_mall%2Fmatsucame%2Fcabinet%2Ftsu-16%2Ftsu6442a.jpg%3F_ex%3D240x240&s=240x240&t=picttext "[商品価格に関しましては、リンクが作成された時点と現時点で情報が変更されている場合がございます。]")
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So you can enjoy shopping from anywhere!
Why Is Hyakunin Isshu a New Year Tradition?
There are several reasons why Hyakunin Isshu is a staple of Japanese New Year celebrations:
- Preserving Tradition
Hyakunin Isshu represents the heart of Japanese culture and literature. The New Year is a time to honor tradition, making it a perfect occasion to play the game and appreciate these historical poems. - Family Bonding
Hyakunin Isshu is a game that people of all ages can enjoy together. It’s a fantastic way for families to connect during the holiday season. - Engaging and Competitive
The game’s mix of strategy, memory, and quick reflexes makes it exciting for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the thrill of grabbing the right card is unmatched.
The Appeal of Hyakunin Isshu
Beautiful Poetry and Artwork
Each card in Hyakunin Isshu features not only a poem but also a beautifully illustrated depiction of the poet. These vibrant and intricate designs enhance the experience, allowing players to enjoy the visual and cultural artistry of the game.
Fun for All Ages and Skill Levels
While traditional Karuta requires memorization and quick thinking, the simplified version, Bōzu Mekuri, is purely based on luck. This makes it accessible to children and beginners, including those unfamiliar with Japanese culture.
I really loved Bozu Mekuri when I was a kid.
And our family still enjoy this every New Year season.
You can enjoy this game even if you don’t know Japanese language!
How to Play Bōzu Mekuri
Bōzu Mekuri is a simpler variation of Hyakunin Isshu, perfect for kids and newcomers. Here’s how it works:
- Stack all the cards face-down to create a draw pile.
- Players take turns drawing a card. The action depends on the type of card drawn:
- Male Card (Tonō): Keep it as part of your hand.
- Monk Card (Bōzu): Discard all your cards into a side pile.
- Female Card (Hime): Collect all cards from the side pile created by discarded Bōzu cards.
- The player with the most cards at the end wins.
The game’s reliance on luck makes it enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age or experience. Plus, the beautifully illustrated cards add an extra layer of fun as players marvel at the designs.
This year, my mother won!
It was so much fun playing the game this year as well!
Conclusion
Hyakunin Isshu isn’t just a card game; it’s a gateway to Japanese culture, history, and literature. Whether you’re diving into the competitive world of Karuta or enjoying the lighthearted fun of Bōzu Mekuri, there’s something for everyone.
This New Year, gather your family and friends to experience the timeless charm of Hyakunin Isshu. Who knows? You might just fall in love with the poetry, the artwork, and the thrill of the game!
If you are interested in Japanese culture, you may love these games!
Let’s play!
Yes! Let’s play!
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