Traditional games · Hobby Guide
How to Buy Hanafuda, Karuta & Traditional Japanese Games from Overseas
Hanafuda flower cards, karuta, shogi and go — Japan’s traditional games come in authentic, premium and beautifully made sets. Here’s how to import them from abroad.
Hanafuda, karuta, shogi & go
- Hanafuda (花札) — traditional flower-card decks, many designs (including famous makers and collabs).
- Karuta (かるた) — matching/reading card games, including character and educational sets.
- Shogi & go — board games with wooden boards and pieces/stones, from travel sets to premium.
Why buy from Japan
Japan has the authentic article — premium makers, character collaborations, and vintage examples — plus the full range of board-game equipment, much of which is unavailable or pricey abroad.
What to check
For cards, check completeness and condition. For boards and stones, ask about material (wood type, stone vs glass), board format (table vs folding vs solid), weight, and any damage. Premium go/shogi equipment can be valuable.
Shipping (cards vs boards)
Cards are tiny and cheap to ship. Solid wooden boards and stone sets are heavy, so shipping can be significant — folding boards are a lighter alternative. Total cost = item price + (domestic shipping) + proxy fee + international shipping + possible customs.
After an authentic set?
Get a free quote and have a person check it and compare shipping.
Get a free quoteFrequently asked questions
What are hanafuda and karuta?
Hanafuda are traditional flower cards; karuta are matching/reading card games. Both come in many designs, including premium and vintage.
Why buy traditional games from Japan?
Authentic sets, premium makers, character collaborations and vintage examples, plus shogi and go, often unavailable abroad.
Are shogi and go boards heavy to ship?
Solid wooden boards and stones are heavy, so shipping is a real cost; folding boards and cards are far cheaper.