Check Out the Mesmerising Tanuki Yukaku Playing Cards

Tanuki Yukaku Playing Cards invites you into a mesmerizing world of charm, illusion, and tradition, brought to life through the lens of a mischievous tanuki courtesan. Following the acclaimed Hyakki Yagyō Playing Cards, the team at Bloom Playing Cards returns with this rich and imaginative new deck—marking the first in Season 2 of Room One’s Collection System.

Inspired by the whimsical tales of Japanese folklore, this project blends the fantastical nature of the shape-shifting tanuki with the opulent world of the Yūkaku—pleasure districts from Japan’s Edo period. The result is a lush, visual narrative that transforms each playing card into a piece of storytelling. 

Each deck is crafted with attention to detail and layered meaning. From the cold foil enhancements to hidden puzzles across the number cards, every element adds depth to the experience. The Yukaku Tales Edition forms a panoramic scene of lively tanuki characters. The Oiran-Dochu Edition mimics a traditional makimono scroll when arranged by suit. The Hanafuda Edition offers a 4-in-1 puzzle and even includes the traditional game Koi-Koi, complete with a guide for newcomers.

The Court Cards portray a cast of captivating characters—each a unique tanuki courtesan, filled with personality and styled with folkloric flair. The card backs in each edition are individually designed to reflect the mood and story of their respective themes, while pattern gilded edges give the decks a radiant finishing touch.

The tuck boxes are a showstopper, particularly the Light Up Yukaku Box, which features a window that reveals a glowing ryotei, blooming ume trees, and intricate craftsmanship. The Ume Matsuri Box further embodies Japanese elegance, opening from both sides like sliding doors at a spring festival.

Also, the Kickstarter campaign features a beautifully collector’s coin, inspired by historical Japanese currency—Koban and Oban—adding an extra layer of cultural authenticity and visual appeal. 

Pledge starts at $13 on Kickstarter.