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!
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This much fun without any equipment! A collection of Japanese play ideas (11–20)
kotoro-kotoro (onomatopoeic; a light rattling/rolling sound)
“Kotorokotoro” is a type of tag with a rule where you protect the child at the end of the line from the chaser.
Form a team of about five people: one is the chaser (oni), and the rest are the children.
The children line up in a single file, placing both hands on the shoulders of the person in front.
The child at the front crosses their arms and places their hands on their chest.
When the game begins, the chaser aims for the child at the very back.
The chaser wins if they touch the last child or if anyone in the line lets go of their hands.
It builds team skills and is a recommended game that even kids who aren’t good at running can enjoy.
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.
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!