What is "hagoita"

Hagoita (羽子板 ｢はごいた｣) are rectangular wooden paddles, originating in Japan, ostensibly used to play hanetsuki, but often instead serving a more ornamental purpose. These are frequently painted, usually with lacquer, with auspicious symbols, or decorated with complex silk collages. This tradition dates to the 17th century, and although the game itself is now rarely played, crafting decorative hagoita is still commonplace. They are generally sold at traditional fairs (hagoita ichi) which are held in December. In Tokyo, they are sold at shrines, especially Asakusa and Furukawa Fudō.

Category:Japanese art