What is the meaning behind sending “Hagoita” during New Year? Why do players paint their faces with ink?

Long ago in Japan, it was a common scene to see girls playing shuttlecock during New Year’s holidays.

Playing shuttlecock is called “Hanetsuki”.And the racket-like thing is called a “hagoita”.

Simply put, it’s like badminton using a wooden board.

In Japan, there is a tradition of sending “hagoita” used in the game of “Hanetsuki” during the New Year.

What was the significance of that?

Also, the rule is that whoever loses the game has their face painted with ink by the winner. Why is that?

In this article, we will explain the meaning of sending hagoita during the New Year and why the loser is painted with ink!