At first glance, the kendama—a wooden toy seemingly straight out of Japan’s Showa era—may appear purely nostalgic. Yet today, this traditional Japanese pastime is making an unexpected comeback among youth and families in Hong Kong, now embraced as a fresh and exciting way to play.

Social media is buzzing with videos of Hong Kong teens performing intricate kendama tricks and families enjoying friendly competitions. Hashtags like #Kendama and #JapaneseToys are trending, reflecting a rising fascination with its timeless appeal.

Why kendama, and why now? The answer lies in a rediscovery: that in a screen-dominated world, analog fun feels refreshingly real.

The Comfort of Wood – A Sensory Escape from Digital Fatigue

For children accustomed to a world of smartphones and video games, kendama feels like a refreshing cultural discovery. There’s no screen, no vibrations—just the hands and body engaged in a rhythmic, physical challenge. At first glance, it may seem simple or even outdated. But once they experience it, many are captivated by the distinct wooden click and the natural rhythm it brings.

“It was hard at first,” says a 10-year-old girl from Hong Kong Island. “But the ‘kakon’ sound when I land a trick feels so satisfying.” She now practices kendama for ten minutes every day after school—a habit she finds both fun and calming.

This unique blend of sound and touch offers what modern digital play often lacks. Educators have also taken note, recognizing how this multisensory experience helps improve focus, motor coordination, and balance—making kendama not just a toy, but a powerful tool for mindful play.

Kendama as Sport – A New Generation of Skill and Performance

In Hong Kong, kendama is evolving beyond a traditional toy, entering the realms of sport and performance. With named tricks, speed-based time attacks, and even choreographed routines set to music, kendama is capturing the attention of a younger generation who are rediscovering it as something entirely new.

Local kendama clubs and workshops are thriving, and international events have even welcomed professional players from Japan to share their skills. Some schools have gone further, incorporating competitive kendama into the curriculum—where “showtime” after class has become a much-anticipated routine.

Far from being just a retro pastime, kendama is now recognized as a skill-based activity where progress is visible with practice. For many kids in Hong Kong, it’s a deeply engaging form of play that fosters discipline, creativity, and community.

Analog Connections through Kendama

The true charm of kendama lies not only in its technical skill or competitive nature. One of its greatest values is the way it fosters face-to-face communication that transcends generations and nationalities.

Whether between parents and children, among friends, or during cultural exchange events where children from Japan and Hong Kong teach each other tricks, kendama brings a warmth and spontaneity unique to in-person play. The tension and laughter sparked by one ball and three cups create moments where “play becomes a universal language.”

Kendama also naturally incorporates educational elements such as concentration, dexterity, and perseverance—qualities highly valued by parents and educators alike. In this way, kendama serves not only as a traditional toy, but also as a bridge that connects people and cultivates valuable life skills.

When “Retro” Becomes the New Trend

We live in an era where information and entertainment are just a tap away on our smartphones. Yet precisely because of this, there’s a growing appreciation for experiences that engage the body—moments where you physically play, and feel the joy of achieving something you couldn’t do before.

Kendama is gaining renewed popularity for exactly this reason: the thrill of physical, hands-on play. Its appearance may be retro, but the way it’s played has evolved. That magical moment when “nostalgic” turns into “fresh and exciting”—it’s happening right now on the streets of Hong Kong.

Conclusion: Kendama and the Future It Connects

Originating in Japan, kendama has now become a part of daily life for children in Hong Kong, growing its presence in schools, homes, and even on social media. More than just a passing trend, it embodies the idea of culture coming alive through play.

Through the natural feel and sound of wood, kendama connects people across generations and borders. It reminds us of the enduring power of simplicity—a timeless charm that resonates deeply in our fast-paced modern world.