KEMARI is a sport enjoyed by the aristocracy of old Japan, in which players dressed in elegant costumes kick a ball.
The rules of the game are similar to those of hacky sack (footbag), but more complex.
The level of technical difficulty is higher than that of football (soccer) lifting.
The following is an explanation of the regulations for KEMARI.
CONTENTS
KEMARI（蹴鞠）…called “kemari” or “shukiku”.
It originated in China around 300 BC.
It was introduced to Japan with Buddhism and became popular as a game among court nobles in the Heian period (794-1185). Later, it spread to samurai and common people.
Even today, it is passed down as a votive ritual at some shrines.
▼”Kemari Hajime” held at Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto on New Year’s Day this year（SANKEI NEWS）
VIDEO
The most basic rule of kemari is to kick the ball to each other without dropping it to the ground.
The players kick the ball in such a way that it is easy for their opponents to kick it and keep a rally going as long as possible, enjoying the graceful appearance and beautiful sound of the ball as it is kicked.
Kemari-hajime at Simakamo-jinja_Kyoto（NHK NEWS） *If you are unable to watch a video, please consider a VPN , which is the most recommended service for streaming Japanese TV and video sites.
The manner of the game is to kick the ball three times and hand it to the opponent.The first time you receive the ball from your opponent (trap), the second time you kick it and enjoy it, and the third time you kick it to a place where your opponent can easily receive it.
It was recommended to keep the ankle at a right angle, not to bend the knee, and to kick by moving only the hip joint.
It was also said that the best way to kick the ball was to make a popping sound when it was kicked. Furthermore, it was said that the best way to kick the ball was to raise it to a height of about 4.5 meters while rotating it gracefully.
Raising the foot high and showing the sole of the foot is an undignified act. It is common with football (soccer) today.
The ball is made of deerskin and is approximately 19 cm in diameter. It weighs 100-110 grams.It is smaller than a soccer ball and slightly oval in shape.
Shiramine Jingu
To actually watch kemari, visit Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto on January 4 of the New Year. The “kemari hajimae” (beginning of kemari) described in the video is held there every year.
A more recommended place is Shiramine Shrine in Kyoto. This shrine holds this event twice a year, on April 14 and July 7.
Shiramine Jingu
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