Perfect for your summer vacation independent research project! A complete guide to ideas, from the history of Kendama to experiments and experiences

The long-awaited summer vacation for all students is finally here!
This time, we have some suggestions for those of you who are wondering what to do for your summer vacation independent study project.
Why not try your hand at your own original research using the traditional toy "kendama" as a theme?
Not only is it fun to play with, but it also allows you to learn about history and culture, and makes it easy to create experiments and experience reports.

1. Let's unravel the history of Kendama

Kendama first appeared in the Taisho era (1912-1926) when Egusato Hamaji invented the "Nichigetsu Ball" in 1918, and is said to have established the current form of Kendama, in which the ball is caught by a plate.
It originally became popular as a game for common people during the Edo period, and became an essential item for children during the Meiji and Showa periods.
The boom died down for a while after the war, but in 1975, the Japan Kendama Association was founded.
Uniform standards and common rules were established, and it was established as a sport and competition.
Today, it is an international traditional toy with enthusiasts all over the world.

2. Kendama Today: A Culture Spreading Both Domestically and Internationally

• Japan: Kendama classes are held at many school extracurricular activities and community events
• Overseas: Brands such as "Kendama USA" and "KROM" are available in various countries, mainly in the United States and Europe.
• How-to videos and trick videos by professional players are hugely popular on YouTube and Instagram.

3. Independent Research Ideas

1. Historical research: Using reference books and websites, summarize the history of the craft from its birth in Japan to the present day.
   
2. Cultural comparison: Research the popularity of kendama in Japan, the US, and Europe, and compare it with photos and data (e.g., number of YouTube subscribers, number of events).
   
   
3. Experiment: Even with the same trick (for example, Furiken or Hiraki Naso), we experimented to see how the success rate changes depending on the material of the Kendama (maple/cherry/beech, etc.) and the type of paint (matt, sticky, unpainted, etc.).
   Tip: Record your success rate and compile it into a chart or graph.
   
   
4. Experience: Try out tricks (airplanes, around large plates, etc.) and record your progress with photos.
   
   
5. Summary: Reflect on the research results and write your thoughts on the independent research and your future goals.
   
   

4. Three recommended Kendamas for research

• Yamagata Kobo Ozora Series (unpainted, matte, clear, etc.)
  This product is certified by the Japan Kendama Association and is easy to use, making it a representative of Japanese-made Kendama.
  
  
• TOKYO KENDAMA 5th Series (unpainted)
  The products are made from a variety of woods. The theme is "growing Kendama." The 5th shape has a large cup that makes it easy to catch, making it perfect for independent research experiments.
  
  
• KROM POP (Sticky, Rubber, etc.)
  It's colorful, and the coating on the balls makes it easy to grip and perform tricks. It's the perfect beginner's club!

5. Summary: Complete your own original research!

Kendama is a perfect theme for independent research projects, as it is packed with fun, learning, and experimentation.
After learning about history and culture, you can actually get your hands dirty and conduct experiments, and then write a report and give a presentation at the end, resulting in a quality that will impress even adults!
For your summer vacation independent study project this year, why not try your hand at Kendama?