What Is Kendama?
What Is Kendama? (The Basics)
Starting as a traditional Japanese drinking game nearly a hundred years ago, kendama has evolved into a mostly niche, somewhat viral sensation.
Kendama is a skill-toy that requires balance, focus, and concentration. Made up of two main parts–the ken (handle) and the tama (ball)–the goal is to catch the tama on any of the three cups, and then on the spike. To be clear, there is no “rule” to follow or right way to play. Kendama is all about being creative with your flow and creating/mastering combos!
The History of Kendama
With its origins in Japan, kendama was influenced by European cup-and-ball toys. It has had many changes over the years, but the kendama itself has remained mostly the same. The ken, tama, sarado (the big and small cups), along with the string, are all what makes a kendama… a kendama.
Nowadays, kendama is used as a cultural sport and creative outlet. The kendama community is small, but spans the globe.
The Benefits of Playing Kendama
When playing kendama, you’ll experience a heightened sense of focus, coordination, patience, creativity, and community. All of these are essential to being a successful kendama player, and they’ll continue to grow as you play. Since kendama is so niche, you’ll quickly form strong relationships with any other kendama player you meet.
In a world of smartphones and computers, kendama provides a mental and physical break from screens for people of all ages. This is probably the biggest benefit of all. Play kendama, and watch your mental health thrive!
Kendama Around the World
As a small, but continuously growing community, kendama has become a global sensation over the last decade. From the US, Japan, Denmark, Philippines, and beyond—the demand for high-quality kendama products is kicking in.
KROM is the bestselling kendama brand in the world. With retail partners like FNAC, Blue Tomato, ZUMIEZ, and many more, we aim to get the best kendamas in the hands of newcomers and seasoned players. We take pride in our meticulous designs, and our products are all player-tested, player-approved before becoming available to the general public.
We continue to take player feedback seriously, and use it to improve our products.
Want to learn to play? Check out these tutorials!