Chihayafuru’s strength lies in its aforementioned diverse cast of characters. Every member of Miyuzawa High School’s karuta club is unique, allowing Chihayafuru to lend various perspectives on the world of sport and why we play them. Sports are a funny thing, as they’re often something that is unwillingly forced onto children by parents. In Chihaya’s case, she begins playing karuta to further her relationship with Arata. Friendships come and go and so do these games that bond us together. Chihaya, however, is ultimately captured by a love for the game and continues to play, even when nobody around her does. That is the beauty of the word ‘sport’. Everyone has their own situation that led them to playing, however that often gives way to a deeper connection to the game itself. The other members of Miyuzawa’s karuta club are no different. For example, Taichi initially plays to be close to the girl he has feelings for, but the game quickly becomes an outlet for his desire to overcome his cowardice and to accept himself for who he is. Ultimately, the viewer watches these new players laugh and cry with each triumph and loss. They cry because they love the game and love doing their best. It is often hard to pinpoint a moment where you can say you fell in love with a sport. Love just happens and the charming character development in Chihayafuru captures this perfectly.