Iki

IKI takes place in Edo during the period of the same name (1603-1868). Edo was the name of Tokyo at that time. In Nihonbashi district, the most animated market of the city can be found. Near the main street, there is a fish market, where boats bring their goods and where the cries of the sellers and buyers echo. In houses around the main street called Nagaya, live craftsmen and shopkeepers, with various skills required for the daily life of Edo’s citizens. According to estimates, between 700 and 800 different occupations exist in Edo: fan or lantern makers, tatami weavers, printers, hawkers, tempura or sushi sellers, geishas, kabuki actors and many others are represented in IKI as cards. The goal of this game is to become the annual Edoite, best personifying what is known as “IKI”, an ancient philosophy believed to be the ideal way of living among people in Edo. Knowing the subtleties of human nature, being refined and attractive — these are all elements of a true IKI master.