Hanafuda, Japanese Flower Playing Cards

Since its founding in 1800, Oishi Tengudo has been a cornerstone of Japanese game craftsmanship in Kyoto. This renowned Hanafuda card set is one of their iconic creations, crafted with a distinct technique passed down since the Edo period. The cards feature a unique slight curvature due to the traditional "Ura-hari Shiage" backing method, giving each piece a floating, three-dimensional quality.

Oishi Tengudo, with over 200 years of history, is celebrated for producing traditional Japanese games such as karuta (most notably the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu), go, and shogi, which embody the elegance and heart of Japanese culture. These games provide both a sense of refined playfulness and intellectual stimulation, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

What is Hanafuda?

Hanafuda, meaning "flower cards," is a traditional Japanese card game that dates back to the Edo period. Unlike Western playing cards, Hanafuda cards feature no numbers or suits; instead, they are adorned with vibrant illustrations of seasonal flowers, animals, and cultural symbols representing the twelve months of the year. Each card holds unique imagery connected to Japanese folklore and the natural beauty of each season.

This visually rich and intellectually engaging game has been enjoyed across generations, valued for its combination of luck, memory, and strategy. Hanafuda offers players a chance to appreciate the subtle beauty of Japan's seasons and traditions, making it both a game and an art form.