Hagoita
Japanese Name:
羽子板
Romaji Name:
hagoita
Description
↓↓
Hagoita is a traditional Japanese wooden paddle used in a game called "hagoita-ori", which is a kind of shuttlecock game played during the New Year holidays. The term "hagoita" comes from "hago", meaning "feather," and "ita", meaning "board" or "paddle." Hagoita are beautifully decorated paddles that have become a symbol of New Year celebrations and are often displayed as decorative items rather than being used for play in modern times.
History
↓↓
Hagoita are traditional Japanese wooden paddles used in a game called hanetsuki, similar to badminton, played during the New Year.
The game dates back to the Muromachi period (14th–16th century) as a pastime for girls and a symbol of good luck.
Hagoita were often decorated with elaborate designs, including painted or molded images of kabuki actors and historical figures.
During the Edo period (17th–19th century), decorative hagoita became popular as ornamental gifts rather than just gaming equipment.
They were believed to ward off evil spirits and bring protection to the household.
Today, hagoita are widely collected as New Year decorations and cultural artifacts in Japan.