I am filled with gratitude that the “Seashell Art Award Exhibition” has successfully concluded. From 2024 to 2025, we held a training course for certified instructors of the shell-matching game, and from 2025 to 2026, we held the Shell-Matching Award. From 2026 to 2027, in order to spread the shell-matching game not only in Japan but also as part of traditional game culture around the world, we will work on training creators who can make not only 2-piece shell-matching sets but also 12-piece sets. The application period for the second award is scheduled to begin in 2027, and the award ceremony is planned for 2028.
The history of the shell-matching game dates back to the time of “The Tale of the Heike,” and the oldest record can be found in “Tamaki Haru,” the diary of Fujiwara no Teika’s sister, Kenju. It records that Taira no Shigeko, the consort of Emperor Go-Shirakawa, played the shell-matching game to entertain the ladies-in-waiting. I would like to learn about a wider range of game culture through the long history of the shell-matching game. Japan has many other traditional games, and our association will continue its activities to preserve the Kai-awase game as one of these traditional games.
Specifically, we plan to exhibit at the Tokyo Game Market and strive to promote board games both domestically and internationally. Board game culture is already well-established in countries such as France and Germany, serving as a platform for exchange across generations and cultures. During a visit to France in 2018, we introduced the board game “Kai-oi” at a local event, which received a great response. Kai-oi is characterized by its simple rules, ease of explanation, and the uniquely Japanese element of observing the outside of seashells.
In Europe, board games are highly valued as historical and social cultural heritage, and our overseas branch, through certified instructor Ayafuji, is working to spread Kai-oi in Asia. To further expand Kai-oi’s activities as a platform for international exchange, we plan to visit the French board game market and publishers in 2026. Our mission is to convey the charm of Japanese imperial culture to the world, and we will continue our activities with a broad perspective.
Experience traditional culture in Kyoto This program is perfect for cultural experiences while traveling. This is the only place where you can create Japanese seashell art. It’s a special cultural experience that is still unknown. Have you forgotten that Japan is an island nation surrounded by the sea? Japanese aristocrats felt a sense of mystery and romance in the sea. And once upon a time, a game called “shell matching” was played. This game can only be played with Japanese clams（hamaguri）.
Event time: 12:30-14:30 (Entry until 13:00, early departure permitted) Participation fee: 1,000 yen (cash only, payable on the day)
Of course, you can take photos and take home your creations.
Using Japanese clam shells, you will create shell matching art with an illustration pen. It’s okay if you can’t draw. You can also create your own original “shell matching coloring book” or calligraphy shell matching art.
If you want to experience calligraphy in Japan, please come.
Location: Kyoto International Community House (Keage Station, Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line)
