karuta

Karuta is a traditional Japanese card game that involves matching cards with poems or phrases. It typically consists of two sets of cards: one set contains the complete poems, while the other contains the prefixes or the first halves of those poems. Players listen for a reader to recite a line of a poem and then race to find the matching card from their own set.

The game requires quick thinking and good reflexes, as players must not only recognize the poem being recited but also locate the corresponding card from a spread of cards on the table. Karuta is often played during festivals and gatherings, and it can also be highly competitive, especially in formal tournaments. It serves as both a recreational activity and a means of preserving and appreciating Japanese literature and poetry.

In a broader cultural context, karuta can also refer to the learning of poetry and literature in a fun and engaging manner, promoting literacy and cultural heritage among participants. Its popularity in Japan has led to various adaptations and themed versions, making it an integral part of Japanese traditional games.