Karuta
Japanese card-matching family — a reader chants a verse, players race to snatch the matching card.
🌤indoor
What is Karuta?
Karuta is a Japanese card-game family originating in the 16th century (the word itself is derived from the Portuguese carta). A reader chants a verse and players race to grab the matching card from those spread on the floor. Competitive Hyakunin Isshu karuta is played on the elite All-Japan Karuta Association circuit and requires an astonishing combination of memory, hearing and hand-speed.
Quick facts
Category
Card Games
Type
Individual
Players
2–8
Where played
indoor
Country of origin
🇯🇵 Japan
Estimated origin
16th-century Japan — Portuguese influence, then dedicated Japanese decks
Olympic
No
Popularity
regional
Sources & provenance
Last verified 2026-08-24.verified