Goldfish Scooping

Goldfish Scooping

Goldfish scooping, also known as kingyo sukui in Japan, is a traditional Japanese game that involves players using a small, flat scooper called a poi to catch goldfish from a shallow pool. The game is typically played at summer festivals and is popular among children and adults alike. The objective of the game is to catch as many goldfish as possible using the poi, which is made of thin paper or plastic and is fragile. The pool is often filled with small, colorful goldfish that are difficult to catch, adding to the challenge of the game. Players must scoop the goldfish carefully, as they can easily slip through the holes in the poi or jump out of the pool. Goldfish scooping has a long history in Japan, dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Originally, the game was played using a bamboo scooper and a shallow dish filled with water. Over time, the game evolved to include the use of the poi and a larger pool. Today, goldfish scooping is a popular attraction at festivals and is often accompanied by other traditional games and activities. One of the unique aspects of goldfish scooping is that it requires a combination of skill and luck. Players must have a steady hand and good aim to catch the goldfish, but they also need to be lucky enough to find a pool with plenty of fish. The game is often seen as a test of patience and perseverance, as players may need to try multiple times before successfully catching a fish. In recent years, there has been some controversy surrounding goldfish scooping, as animal rights activists have raised concerns about the welfare of the fish. Some festivals have responded by using mechanical fish or other alternatives to live goldfish. Despite these concerns, goldfish scooping remains a beloved tradition in Japan and continues to be enjoyed by many.

kingyo sukui, traditional Japanese game, summer festivals, poi, Edo period

— Joseph Jackson

CITATION : "Joseph Jackson. 'Goldfish Scooping.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/goldfish-scooping?E=251852 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"