There are various opinions as to when konpeito was first introduced to Japan but it is considered that, konpeito, along with other Nanbangashi (Portuguese and Spanish confectioneries) such as kasutera sponge cake and aruheito (toffee), was introduced to Japan in 1550.
初めて日本に金平糖が伝わった時期については諸説あるが、1550年にカステラ・有平糖などとともに南蛮菓子として伝えられたとされる。