Nintendo Playing Cards Co. Ltd
In 1889, Fusajirô Yamauchi began manufacturing “Hanafuda” or “flower cards” under the brand name Nintendo Koppai. Cards were hand crafted using the bark from mulberry and mitsu-mata trees. Around 1902 the firm began producing Western style playing cards.
Ainu culture
A terrific deck of cards made by Nintendo c.1979 with original designs on every card showing the Ainu, the indigenous people of Japan.
Akadama Honey Wine by Nintendo
Suntory Akadama Honey Wine playing cards manufactured by Nintendo, Japan, c.1970.
Akahachi
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by Anthony Lee
After Mekuri games such as Unsun Karuta and Tenshô Karuta were banned by the authorities, especially if played with foreign cards, their appearance was disguised.
Black & White Whisky by Nintendo
Whisky advertising playing cards manufactured by Nintendo Playing Cards Co Ltd for Dodwell & Co., 1960s.
Chandelier No. 55 (Nintendo)
Standard international pattern playing cards made in occupied Japan, c.1950.
Ethiopian Air Lines
Ethiopian Air Lines playing cards designed by Melles Habtezghi with courts wearing regional costumes, c.1969.
Fujitsu playing cards
Colourful advertising pack for Fujitsu Limited, reminiscent of the flower power/psychedelic era.
Glico Almond Chocolate
Glico Almond Chocolate playing cards with designs by Izumi Tamai, produced by Nintendo, Japan.
Hanafuda Flower Cards
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by Simon Wintle
Japanese Flower Cards (Hanafuda) made by Nintendo, Japan, 2008.
Japanese Kurofuda 黑札
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by Anthony Lee
The name means “Black cards”, which is especially true of you look at the suit of batons. The horse's legs can be recognised on the Cavaliers.
Japanese Playing Cards
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by Simon Wintle
Japanese playing cards include: 'Awase' or 'matching pairs' cards and Portuguese or Spanish-derived 'Dragon' type cards.
Kyoto Souvenir Deck
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by Ian Taylor
Kyoto Souvenir playing cards by Nintendo aimed at the up and coming tourist industry, 1950s.
