The standard collection of poems used is the Hyakunin Isshu, chosen by poet Fujiwara no Teika in the Kamakura period, which is often also used as the name of the game.

When the reader starts reading out a poem on the yomifuda, the players quickly search for the torifuda on which the corresponding final phrase is written.

[1] The manga, anime series and live action movie Chihayafuru portrays the story of a group of young people who competitively play Hyakunin Isshu karuta with the aim of becoming best in the world.

[3][4] In the manga and anime series Nanbaka, uta-garuta is the 3rd Event of the New Year Joint Cooperation tournament.

The 21st movie of the Detective Conan anime series, Crimson Love Letter, features a uta-garuta competition as the main storyline.