Oshikura Manju facts for kids

Oshikura Manju (押し競饅頭) is a fun and simple Japanese game that people play on cold days to warm up. It's a bit like a friendly pushing contest!

Playing Oshikura Manju

This game needs at least three players, but it's even more fun with a bigger group. To start, players gather in a circle, standing as close as possible. They face outwards, with their backs pressed against each other.

When the game begins, players gently shove backwards. They press their backs against the backs of the other players. As they push, everyone chants a special song.

The Famous Chant

The most famous part of the song is "Oshikura Manju osarete nakuna". This means "Oshikura Manju, don't cry when shoved." Many people in Japan know only this part of the song.

However, the full song continues with: "Nakuko wa dare yowamushi kemushi hasannde sutero". This part means, "Who is crying? Pinch the coward and caterpillar, and throw them away." Players keep pushing and repeating the song. There isn't a clear end to the game; it just continues until everyone is warm or tired.

Game Variations

One way to play Oshikura Manju differently is to draw a circle on the ground. If a player gets pushed out of this circle, they are out of the game. The game continues until only one player is left inside the circle.

What Does Oshikura Mean?

The word "Oshikura" in the game's name probably comes from "oshikurabe". This Japanese word means "shoving competition."

However, the game wasn't originally meant to be a serious competition. Instead, it was a relaxed and enjoyable way for players to get warm by pushing each other. It's all about having fun and staying cozy!