What is Hyakunin Isshu?
Hyakunin Isshu (百人一首) is a famous Japanese karuta (card game) that collects well-known waka (Japanese poetry). The most famous version is "Ogura Hyakunin Isshu," which contains poems from 100 poets who lived from the Heian period to the Kamakura period. The game uses reading cards (with the entire poem written) and action cards (with only the latter part of the poem written). The reader recites the poem, and players search for and take the corresponding card.
How to Play (Basic Rules)
✅ What You Need
• Hyakunin Isshu karuta (100 reading cards + 100 action cards)
• One reader (can also use audio)
✅ Basic Playing Method
1. Arrange the Action Cards
o Spread all the action cards on the floor or table so that the text is visible.
o In competitive karuta, it is common to use 50 cards, leaving the remaining 50 unused.
2. The Reader Recites the Poem
o The reader slowly recites the poem (the first part).
3. Search for and Take the Action Cards
o Quickly find and take the corresponding action card (the second part) with your hand.
o The player who takes the card the fastest and correctly wins that card.
4. Decide the Winner
o At the end, count the number of cards taken, and the player with the most cards wins.
Tips for Successfully Taking Hyakunin Isshu Cards
● Memorize the Card Arrangement: Familiarize yourself with the card positions at the start to prepare for quick retrieval.
● Remember the Poems: Memorizing the first and second parts of the poems in advance allows for quicker card retrieval.
● Move Quickly and Calmly: It’s important to take cards faster than your opponent, but be careful not to make mistakes.
The Charm of Hyakunin Isshu
✅ Learn traditional Japanese waka
✅ Train your memory and reflexes
✅ Enjoy as a competitive game
✅ Have fun with family and friends
Summary
Hyakunin Isshu is a traditional karuta game that allows you to learn beautiful Japanese poetry while playing. Beginners can start by memorizing simple cards. Enjoy the experience with family and friends while engaging with Japan's history and culture!
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