this man is selling kendama in his boutique from may of last year. thanks to their innovative schemes, it has proved popular. he has sold more than 500 units. >> translator: at school we only have the standard kendama. i want one that's a bit original. >> reporter: the kendama trend is spreading. this school was opened about eight months ago, by tokyo-based japan kendama association. it's children but young others. the instructors are experts, by the association who can teach higher techniques. right now, there are about ten students attending regularly, including people stopping by on their way home from work. the classes are a great way for people to improve their skills quickly. >> translator: imimpressed. i was trying to learn on my own but being shown is faster. >> translator: it's just a toy, but kendama helps to bring to the families and friends. people abroad, too. and i'm really glad it's spreading like this. >> reporter: inside and outside japan, the word is spreading. this game is capturing the imagination of a new generation. nobuhiro his