Cuju
Cuju is an ancient Chinese ball game recognized by FIFA as an early form of association football. Players kicked a leather ball through an elevated net opening without using their hands.
AT A GLANCE
- ERA
- c. 300 BC – 1600s AD
- ORIGIN
- China
- PLAYERS
- Varies (2–32)
- EQUIPMENT
- Leather ball, high net
- PLAYING AREA
- Varies (walled court)
- DURATION
- Varies
- GOVERNING BODY
- None
- OLYMPIC
- No
Key historical developments
| Period | Development |
|---|---|
| c. 300 BC | Earliest written mentions appear in Zhan Guo Ce as a popular activity in Qi. |
| Han Dynasty | Used for military conditioning; early rules and dedicated courts established. |
| Tang Dynasty | Air-filled leather balls replace feather-stuffed balls; high net goals introduced. |
| Song Dynasty | Professional clubs form; competitive play and elite performance flourish. |
| Ming Dynasty | Decline begins as imperial bans discourage play among military members. |
| Style | Format |
|---|---|
| Zhu Qiu | Two teams compete to kick the ball through a high central goal hole. |
| Ba Da | Non-competitive exhibition judged on kicking control and continuous juggling. |
How a game works
In the competitive Zhu Qiu style, two teams played on a court separated by a high net with a single opening at the center. Players used their feet, chest, and head to pass and shoot the ball through the opening. Hand touches were strictly forbidden.
Scoring in one line
Points were scored when a team passed the ball into the opening of the central elevated net without allowing it to hit the ground.
Where it came from
Cuju originated in ancient China during the Warring States period, initially used for military fitness training in the state of Qi. Over centuries, it evolved into a popular spectator sport enjoyed by commoners, emperors, and professional clubs.
Cuju today
While competitive leagues faded during the Ming and Qing dynasties, cuju is celebrated in China as a cultural precursor to association football. Modern reenactments in Linzi display traditional costumes, trick juggling, and historic court setups.
Run a Cuju tournament
Brackets, fixtures and standings in your browser — Varies.
FAQ
Is cuju the oldest form of football?
FIFA recognized Linzi, China, as the origin of the earliest recorded form of football based on historical evidence dating back to the Warring States period.
Were players allowed to use hands in cuju?
No, rules prohibited using hands and arms; players had to control the ball using their feet, body, and head.
How were goals designed in ancient cuju?
In the Song dynasty style, a high net was suspended between two poles in the center of the pitch, featuring a single small hole for scoring.