Eki karuta

Eki Karuta (易カルタ) is a Japanese divination tool that combines elements of karuta, a traditional Japanese card game, with concepts from I Ching (易経), the ancient Chinese divination system. It is often used for self-reflection and guidance, with each card in the set corresponding to one of the 64 hexagrams from the I Ching symbolising specific life situations or advice. The artwork by Kayoko Asako (born in Nagoya in 1947, known professionally as 'Ruiico') is bold and striking, featuring both the hexagrams and artistic illustrations to evoke the meaning. The designs appear to show flowers, butterflies, flames, waves, mountains and girls’ faces, among other things. Each card is numbered (from 1 to 64), with the corresponding I Ching symbol just below. The cards have square corners, purple borders and purple backs • See the sleeve

Above: Eki karuta designed by Kayoko Asako (known professionally as 'Ruiico') and published by Nihon Shogyo Sendensha Co., Japan, 1976. 64 cards + 4 blank cards + 96-page booklet in Japanese in card tray with sleeve. Size: 43 x 70 mm.

The extensive guidebook, entirely in Japanese, explains the meanings of the hexagrams, their relevance to aspects like love, work, and general fortune. We have attempted to translate one page from the booklet, shown below, to give an idea of how the system works:

Above: front cover and middle pages from the booklet. The left-hand page (card 28) means it is a difficult time when nothing goes well. In romantic relationships your feelings aren't being reciprocated. In marriage it is better to separate. In work, avoid taking on more than you can handle; you may face misfortune. Advice: your burdens are too heavy, aim for balance. Abandon unrealistic desires quickly. Poor exam results, financial loss. The right-hand page (card 27) means be mindful of your words. In love and romantic relationships things are going well. In marriage cooperation is the key. At work it is time for the group to work together harmoniously. Advice: pay attention to food and words. Efforts will go smoothly if superiors and subordinates work together.

Eki Karuta is a relatively modern adaptation, likely developed in the 20th century as part of a trend to popularise spiritual tools like tarot and fortune-telling cards in Japan. Players draw a card at random and consult the booklet to interpret its meaning in the context of their query. The cards can also be used to reflect on challenges, personal growth, or decisions. It retains a playful element due to its karuta-like format.

A de luxe edition of the same cards was also issued. It contained all-plastic cards with a very glossy finish and rounded corners, accompanied by a larger-format booklet (dated 1975) with 112 pages. Some of the colours (notably red) in this set have not remained fast over time. This set came in a black drop-lid box with gold decoration

Above: Eki karuta de luxe version published by Nihon Shogyo Sendensha Co., Japan, 1976 • See the booklet cover

Reference

Jensen, K. Frank. The Prophetic Cards. Roskilde, Denmark: Ouroboros for Spilkammeret; 1985. Page 5.2.