Get this excited with no props! A collection of Japanese play ideas
Looking for games you can enjoy without any equipment? In Japan, there are actually many unique games that have long been shaped by creativity and ingenuity.
In this article, we’ll introduce Japanese games like Daruma-san ga Koronda and Kotorokotorō—simple rules, no gear needed, and fun anytime, anywhere.
They’re perfect for big groups, involve running or a bit of thinking, and naturally deepen communication with friends.
Experience these Japanese games where nostalgia and freshness coexist!
- Games that get everyone excited without any equipment! A collection of simple ideas everyone can enjoy
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This much fun without any equipment! A collection of Japanese play ideas (11–20)
Rock-paper-scissors Glico
Let’s play an advanced version of regular rock-paper-scissors: Rock-Paper-Scissors Guriko! First, decide the start and goal positions.
If you’re playing outside, it’s a good idea to draw circles or lines on the ground.
Do rock-paper-scissors with a chant, and if you win with Rock, say “Glico” and move forward the same number of steps as the letters; if you win with Paper, say “Pineapple”; if you win with Scissors, say “Chocolate,” moving forward by the number of letters in the word you say.
The cute candy and fruit words make the game exciting! You can also expand the game by adding a fun penalty for the loser.
Sitting tag
How about trying a seated game of tag that you can play indoors? First, choose who’s “it,” and have everyone—including the tagger—start in a seated position.
It’s best if people are spaced a little apart.
The rule is that everyone must keep their bottoms on the floor even while moving.
Moving while your bottom stays on the floor is tricky and slows you down more than you’d think—that frustrating feeling is what makes it so fun.
Since you can’t move very far, you can enjoy it in a small space.
Give it a try!
In conclusion
Japanese games are full of clever ideas that let you have fun without any equipment. There are games where everyone moves their bodies and cooperates together, and games where you hold hands and naturally deepen your bonds—everything brings out smiles. Enjoy the full charm of Japanese play with friends you get along with!