Written by TC Team
The Hagoita Market features a form of art traditionally sold at this time of year and for which Kasukabe is famous.
What happens?
The origin of the Hagoita is as a paddle-like racket for playing a badminton-like game called Hanetsuki. They are however more likely to be ornamental.
The tradition seems to have started about 700 years ago during the Muromachi Period (1336 to 1392) but they became a popular form of art in the Edo Period (1603-1867) when they were often decorated with depictions of famous kabuki actors.
Pro tip: If you live closer to central Tokyo, you may want to check out Sensōji Temple’s Hagoita-Ichi Festival where many of the hagoita made in Kasukabe are sold.
How to get there
This year the market will be held at Kasukabe City Hall Town Square (13 minutes from the station) due to construction work. Kasukabe Station is roughly a 1 hour journey from central Tokyo on the Tobu Skytree Line.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
