There are various theories about its origins, including that it developed from a 'ta-asobi' ritual to pray for a good harvest before planting rice or that it was introduced from overseas, but there are still many uncertainties as to its origins.
「田植えの前に豊作を祈る「田遊び」から発達した」「渡来のものである」などの説があり、その由来には未解明の部分が多い。