Kome Kome War: The Japanese Words for Candy Breaking333

Candy breaking, also known as "atamawari" in Japanese, is a beloved traditional game in Japan. Played during the Obon festival, which honors the spirits of one's ancestors, it involves using a stick or chopstick to carefully break a thin piece of candy into smaller pieces without causing it to snap. The game is believed to bring good luck and fortune to the participants.

The Japanese language has a rich vocabulary associated with candy breaking, capturing the intricacies and nuances of the game. Here are some key words to know:

1. Kome (米)

Meaning "rice," kome refers to the candy used in the game. Traditionally, a thin, flat piece of candy made from rice paste is used, known as "komekame." It can be round or square in shape and comes in various flavors.

2. Atamawari (頭割り)

Literally meaning "head splitting," atamawari is the name of the candy breaking game itself. It refers to the act of carefully breaking the kome into smaller pieces without causing it to snap.

3. Shamoji (杓文字)

A shamoji is a wooden or plastic utensil traditionally used to serve rice in Japan. However, in the context of candy breaking, it is used as a stick or chopstick to break the kome.

4. Komeyuki (米雪)

Komeyuki means "rice snow" and refers to the small, fine pieces of candy that result from breaking the kome. These pieces resemble snowflakes.

5. Fukuwarai (福笑い)

Literally meaning "lucky laughter," fukuwarai is a variation of candy breaking where participants try to break the kome while blindfolded. It is believed to bring extra good fortune and laughter.

6. Toriotoko (鳥男)

Toriotoko means "bird man" and refers to a special type of komekame that is shaped like a bird. Breaking this type of candy is considered particularly auspicious.

7. Oniwarai (鬼笑い)

Oniwarai means "ogre laughter" and refers to the sound made when the kome snaps. It is believed that a loud oniwarai can ward off evil spirits.

8. Bu (舞)

Bu means "dance" and refers to the gentle shaking motion used to break the kome. It is believed that this motion brings good fortune.

9. Suijaku (水雀)

Suijaku means "water sparrow" and refers to a specific technique for breaking the kome. It involves dipping the shamoji in water before attempting to break the candy.

10. Kemari (蹴鞠)

Kemari means "foot kicking" and refers to another variation of candy breaking where participants use their feet to break the kome. This technique adds an element of fun and agility to the game.

11. Hanami (花見)

Hanami means "flower viewing" and refers to a special event during Obon where candy breaking is performed under cherry blossom trees in full bloom. The combination of candy breaking and cherry blossom viewing creates a beautiful and festive atmosphere.

12. Kamikakushi (神隠し)

Kamikakushi means "spirited away" and refers to a superstition associated with candy breaking. It is believed that if the game is played too roughly or disrespectfully, the spirits of the ancestors may become angry and take participants away.

13. Tametsuke (ため付け)

Tametsuke means "storage" and refers to the practice of keeping broken pieces of kome for good luck. These pieces are believed to protect against illness and misfortune.

14. Dondoyaki (どんど焼き)

Dondoyaki is a bonfire festival held at the end of Obon. During this festival, broken pieces of kome are thrown into the bonfire as an offering to the spirits of the ancestors.

15. Iriko (いりこ)

Iriko means "dried anchovies" and refers to a small piece of dried anchovy that is often placed on the shamoji during candy breaking. It is believed that this brings good luck and fortune.

The Japanese words for candy breaking provide a glimpse into the cultural significance and traditions surrounding this beloved game. By understanding these words, we can better appreciate the nuances and complexities of this ancient Japanese custom.

2024-12-19

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