The Timeless Japanese Kendama: From Tradition to Trend

What is a Kendama?

At first glance, the Kendama looks simple. It consists of three main parts:

• Ken (sword): The handle, equipped with three cups (big, small, and base) and a spike on top.

• Tama (ball): A wooden ball with a hole, connected to the ken by a string.

• String: The tether that keeps everything connected and allows for dynamic tricks.

The goal? Catch the ball on the various cups or land it on the spike — but that’s only scratching the surface. Skilled players chain together impressive combos, making Kendama feel more like an art form than a toy.

A Brief History of Kendama

Kendama’s roots trace back to the Edo period in Japan (1600s–1800s), believed to have evolved from similar toys found in Europe and China. In Japan, it became more than a pastime — it was seen as a tool for improving focus, patience, and motor skills. Over time, it grew into a cultural icon.

In the 20th century, Kendama earned its place as an official sport in Japan, with rules, competitions, and even certified Kendama masters. It embodies the Japanese philosophy of "kaizen" — continuous improvement — where players strive to perfect tricks and invent new ones.