Kuma-ken is similar to jan-ken (rock-paper-scissors), a game usually played between two people.  It is still played today as a form of entertainment at parties. It is said to have been performed by retainers at the Edo residence of the feudal lords of the Sagara Clan, during their sankin-kotai mandatory alternate attendance.  It is also called "Kitagoya-ken" (North Hut Fist) or "Kitagoya" because the rooms for the retainers were located in the north part of the residence.