Introduction to Mölkky and Upcoming Tournaments
Mölkky, a captivating sport that originated in Finland, has gained impressive popularity worldwide, with an estimated 3.62 million players in Japan alone. This inclusive game allows individuals of all ages and abilities to enjoy friendly competition on the same field. Players take turns throwing a wooden stick, called a Mölkky, to knock down pins marked with numbers, aiming to achieve exactly 50 points. The game combines simple rules with strategic depth and emphasizes communication and teamwork among players.
In response to this growing interest, the Japan Mölkky Association (JMA) is set to host two major tournaments: the 13th Mölkky Japan Tournament in Maizuru, Kyoto, and the 3rd Mölkky Asia Tournament in Imabari, Ehime. These events promise to be spectacular gatherings for Mölkky enthusiasts and players across the region.
The 13th Mölkky Japan Tournament in Kyoto
This landmark tournament marks the very first Mölkky Japan Tournament to be held in Kyoto Prefecture and will take place in the beautiful city of Maizuru. Set for the weekend of October 31 to November 1, 2026, this open tournament invites players from all over the country, regardless of their experience or skill level, to compete for the title of Japan's best Mölkky team.
- - Tournament Name: 13th Mölkky Japan Tournament in Kyoto Maizuru
- - Date: October 31 - November 1, 2026
- - Venue: Maizuru Cultural Park Sports Area, Maizuru City, Kyoto
- - Entry Guidelines: Open to everyone (no pre-qualification needed)
- - Team Size: 3 to 5 members
- - Maximum Teams: 320
- - Participation Fee: ¥10,000 (includes tax; system usage fee not included)
- - Organizer: Japan Mölkky Association
Entry Information Here
The 3rd Mölkky Asia Tournament in Ehime
After a five-year hiatus, the 3rd Mölkky Asia Tournament is set to bring together international players in Imabari, Ehime, in January 2027. This anticipated tournament will showcase competitors from various countries and regions across Asia. The event is scheduled for January 16-17, 2027, with the Asia Nations Cup being held on January 15 for representatives from IMO member countries.
- - Tournament Name: 3rd Mölkky Asia Tournament in Imabari, Ehime
- - Dates: January 16-17, 2027 (Asia Nations Cup on January 15)
- - Venue: Imabari Municipal Sports Park, 1-2 Takahashi Fureai No Oka, Imabari City, Ehime
- - Entry Guidelines: Open to everyone (Asia Nations Cup is selective)
- - Team Size: 3 to 5 members
- - Maximum Teams: 384
- - Participation Fee: ¥14,700/team (includes tax; system usage fee not included)
- - Organizer: International Mölkky Federation; Main Organizer: Japan Mölkky Association
Entry Information Here
Discovering Imabari, Ehime
Located at the gateway to the Shimanami Kaido, Imabari is celebrated not only for its exquisite views of the Seto Inland Sea but also for its rich culinary experiences and world-renowned towel industry. During the tournament, participants can enjoy both Mölkky and the unique cultural offerings of Imabari, making it an unparalleled experience.
Call for Sponsorship Partners
The Japan Mölkky Association is currently seeking sponsorship partners to help enhance both tournaments. Mölkky embodies values such as inclusivity, diversity, sustainability, and community engagement, aligning well with corporate social responsibility initiatives.
With an expected attendance of over 1,000 participants from both domestic and international backgrounds, a range of promotional opportunities are available—from on-site advertising to exposure through official media channels.
For details about sponsorship opportunities, please reach out via our
contact form.
Registration Now Open
Both tournaments are accepting registrations, and we encourage you to form teams with your friends and experience the thrill of competition with players from across Japan and Asia. For detailed information about the tournaments and registration procedures, please visit the official website of the Japan Mölkky Association.
Tournament Details for Kyoto
Tournament Details for Ehime
About Mölkky
Mölkky was introduced in 1996, inspired by the traditional Finnish game Kyykkä from the Karelia region. The game requires players to knock down wooden pins, numbered from 1 to 12, with a wooden stick called Mölkky from a distance of 3 to 4 meters. Its straightforward rules paired with the strategic thinking required to succeed make Mölkky unique and inclusive.
With coverage by various media outlets and an increasing presence on social media, Mölkky's popularity has surged since Japanese player Tetsuya Morita’s participation in the world championship in France in 2019. Looking ahead, Japan is expected to send 61 teams to the World Championships in Finland in 2026, marking its significance as one of the leading Mölkky nations globally.
Note: Mölkky® is a registered trademark of Tactic.
For further information, visit the
official site of the Japan Mölkky Association.