Good luck charms for the New Year, Hagoita

The Hagoita fairs (Hagoita Ichi) taking place around Japan during December are an excellent example of Japanese traditional craftsmanship. Hagoita are wooden paddles decorated with three dimensional models made of washi (Japanese paper) and expensive textile materials, crafted with amazing meticulousness and taste.

The original, undecorated wooden paddles were used for Hanetsuki, a game similar to badminton, but the ones sold at Hagoita Ichi are good luck charms for the New Year. The tradition says that you can hit the bad luck with them... (^_^)