Japanese card games’ history can be traced back to the 16th century, and were brought into the country through traders and immigrants, particularly those from Portugal. It is commonly agreed upon that the Portuguese playing cards in sets of 48 were brought in during that time, building the basis for playing cards.

Playing cards were introduced to Japan by Portuguese traders during the mid-16th century. These early decks were used for trick-taking games. The earliest indigenous karuta was invented in the town of Miike in Chikugo Province at around the end of the 16th century.

The cards have a history that dates back to the 17th century. One hundred years earlier, Portuguese explorers led by the missionary Frances Xavier had arrived in Japan and had brought European cards with them. The locals took to the games instantly, but as they involved gambling, prohibition soon followed.