Karuta is a traditional Japanese card game that involves a competitive matching of cards, often focusing on poetry, particularly the “hyakunin isshu,” a classical anthology of 100 waka poems. Played with two decks of cards, one featuring the poems and the other the corresponding first phrases or lines, Karuta can be enjoyed casually or in a more formal competitive setting. Players must listen to a reader recite the poems and quickly identify and grab the matching card. The game emphasizes speed, memory, and knowledge of Japanese literature, making it a cultural and educational activity as well as a form of entertainment. Different variations of Karuta exist, such as “uta-garuta,” which uses poetry, and “e-hon,” which incorporates illustrations. The game is especially popular during New Year’s celebrations in Japan, reflecting its significant cultural heritage.
"Chihayafuru" returns to TV with a new narrative featuring Reiwa-era high schoolers engaging in Karuta. Led by showrunner Norihiro Koizumi, the series evolves with fresh stories while honoring the original's…