Introduction to Hagoita
It is getting closer to the end of this year. Many of you may be thinking about Christmans and following excitements over the New Year holidays.
Today, I will introduce you the beautiful wooden paddles, Hagoita, that are always loved by Japanese as the New Year ornaments.
Hagoita -Japanese ornamental wooden paddles-
What is Hagoita ?
Hagoita are Japanese rectanglar wooden paddles originally used to play baddminton-like games, Hanetsuki, that became popular during Muromachi period, 1338-1573. Hagoita were also given to women on the New Year holidays believed to protect them against misfortune or eveils. Today, they are displayed more as decorative ornaments in winter.
Two categories of Hagoita:
- Hanetsuki hagoita
- Decorative hagoita
Two from the right decorated specially for the New Year
Many often with women in traditional clothes
