Test your hand eye coordination and learn about the history, the sport, the craft, and the charm of kendama in this interactive display.
The modern kendama consists of a ball and string attached to a handle. The handle has two cups facing opposite directions on the top along with a spike, and a cup on the bottom. The kendama can be held using a variety of grips to perform tricks that involve swinging the ball up and catching the ball in the cups or on the spike. An exercise of dexterity and balance, a multitude of trick combinations can be performed with a kendama, with top players competing at the Kendama World Cup every year in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima.
Each kendama makes a satisfying sound when landing a trick, so take on the challenge and try for yourself.
Find the kendama display in The Shop until 8 September with a limited range available to purchase. Ask our team for more details and for tips and tricks on how to play.
Enter here for the chance to win your own MUGEN MUSOU kendama.
Iwata Co., Ltd
Visit Japan House London to learn more about kendama made by Iwata Co., Ltd. Founded in 1992 in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima prefecture, Iwata Co., Ltd is known for its high precision wood manufacturing and expert lathe processing techniques. In 2004 a line of sports kendama was created named MUGEN MUSOU which became popular amongst top players due to the kendama’s refined precision. With customizable elements such as replaceable spikes, MUGEN MUSOU opens possibilities reflecting the development of kendama as an ever-evolving sport.
Taking kendama beyond the children’s toy, Iwata Co., Ltd created Playable Objets D’Art. Aiming to create sculptural pieces that are as beautiful to display as they are fun to play with.