Battledore Fair in Asakusa

The Battledore Fair in Asakusa, held every December at Sensoji Temple, is a vibrant celebration steeped in tradition. Every 18th of the month is a day dedicated to Kannon Bodhisattva. December 18th, known as “Osoime no Kannon” or “Year-end Kannon,” draws especially large crowds of worshippers. In the Edo period, anticipating the influx of people for Kannon’s festival on December 17th and 18th, vendors began gathering at Sensoji Temple to sell New Year’s goods and lucky charms. This tradition evolved into the “Toshi no Ichi” or “Year-end Market.” While similar markets were held at other temples and shrines, the one at Sensoji in Asakusa was the largest in Edo, stretching from Asakusa Bridge to Ueno and creating a lively and bustling atmosphere.

The Hagoita Ichi: A Centerpiece of the Battledore Fair in Asakusa

At Sensoji’s Year-end Market, from the late Edo period, stalls selling hagoita (battledores) became more common. The hagoita is a rectangular wooden paddle used in hanetsuki, a traditional New Year’s game similar to badminton. The shuttlecock in hanetsuki resembles a dragonfly, which is believed to ward off bad insects (diseases). Additionally, the “bean” at the end of the shuttlecock symbolizes “a diligent and healthy life.” Originally, the hagoita was considered a good luck charm, and it became customary to gift it to families with newborn girls, making the hagoita a central attraction at the market. Over time, the market became popularly known as the “Hagoita Ichi” or “Battledore Market.” Today, from December 17th to 19th, dozens of stalls selling hagoita line the temple grounds, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The lively exchanges between stall owners and customers also entertain onlookers, making this market a beloved feature of Asakusa’s year-end festivities.

Annual Celebrations at the Battledore Fair in Asakusa

Every year, the Hagoita Ichi, or Battledore Fair in Asakusa, takes place at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa from December 17th to 19th. This traditional fair dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868). A hagoita is a rectangular-shaped wooden paddle used for playing a New Year’s game called hanetsuki. Similar to badminton, hanetsuki is played with a shuttlecock and the hagoita as a racket. Although hagoita were originally given to and played by girls, today most of those sold at the fair are ornamental. Traditionally, hagoita is considered a good luck charm.

At the Battledore Fair in Asakusa, you will see dozens of stalls selling colorful 3D and 2D hagoita. Common designs include women in kimonos and kabuki actors. You can also find hagoita featuring the faces of actors, politicians, athletes, and manga characters that were popular that year.

Visiting the Battledore Fair in Asakusa

Location: Sensoji Temple, Asakusa, a 3-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Toei Asakusa Line.

Dates: December 17th – 19th, every year.