Japan Gambling Sites and Laws | 2024 Updated List

The liberalization of Japan betting sites appears to be slowly creeping forward. Remember, under the Japanese Penal Code, most forms of betting are illegal. Some time back, there were discussions concerning Japan gambling sites and laws to allow casinos to operate, especially in Tokyo and Osaka. But the discussions seem to have hit a stalemate. Maybe this could be the reason for the rampant illegal gambling casinos. There is an abundance of Yakuza-run illegal casinos operating throughout Japan. Police continue to raid these illegal businesses, but stopping them hasn’t been a success. But you can legally bet in Japan. Betting laws from Japan has allowed horse racing, lottery, some motorsports, lottery, and the ever-popular pachinko machines. There are over 12,000 pachinko parlors in Japan. Besides, with internet accessibility, online betting companies in Japan allow offering the best betting experience.

Top 10 Gambling Sites for Japan in 21 November 2024 – Updated List

Stake Sports

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Goldenbet Sports

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Megapari

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Betandyou

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Rating 9.90 out of 10

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22Bet Sports

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1XBet

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SpinBetter

Welcome package up to 1500 EUR + 150 FS

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Betwinner

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Vave

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Rating 9.18 out of 10

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Bzeebet

Welcome Package Up to 1000 EUR + 100 FS

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History of Japan gambling sites

Historical records show that betting in Japan dates back to the 7th century – this was before unification. Today, Japanese gambling markets, especially the popular betting game Pachinko, contribute 4% of its GDP. How did it start? Records show that at around 685, emperor Temmu played a Sugoroku. However, the succeeding emperor Jito banned the game. But gambling was widespread towards the end of the 8th century (Heian period) – but still illegal.

Japanese punters could bet on horse races and cockfighting, leading to the emergence of professional gamblers – bakuto. But due to an increase in crimes and killings, nine prohibition edicts were created between 1225 and 1284. These bettingg laws in Japan were strictly enforced and they remained in place even during the samurai era. 1718 saw the expansion of Japan gambling laws. Typically, the laws distinguish between heavy and light betting. This move isolated Japan from the international scene. So, at the beginning of the 19th-century, Japan embraced a more open foreign policy. Thus, western-style casinos were introduced. But in 1907, all betting activities became illegal.

Even with bans on gambling, one game stood out as a favorite pastime – Pachinko. From 1920 to 1930, the game developed from a simple structure to an exciting one, and in 1930, the first Pachinko shop was opened. But during the first years of world war II the game was banned. This didn’t stop the Pachinko love. The 21st century has brought some light to the gambling scene in Japan. While the laws do not explicitly allow wagering, many people are gambling behind the scenes. Japan has embraced most of the Western gaming culture but is still part of Asian bookies.

Efforts have been made to make land-based gambling legal for bettors of legal age. By 2018, there were three legal gambling licenses – Osaka, Tokyo, and Yokohama. In 2020, the government started the Casino Administration Committee to oversee and supervise all betting activities in resorts with legal gambling licenses. Currently, lottery and betting on sports are legal and the government is committed to making casino games legal.

Japan gambling sites laws and regulations

Betting was illegal in Japan for the better part of its history. Even pachinko, which doesn’t qualify as betting, is heavily regulated and requires licensing and close oversight. However, the government is changing its perceptions about casinos. In 2016, the Integrated Resort Promotion Law was passed. This is a revolutionary law as it will change the landscape of betting in Japan. This law permits casino gambling, provided the gaming floor is part of the resort complex. The report must include an international conference hall, hotel, and entertainment venues. The casino operators are subject to a stringent approval process.

Is it illegal to gamble in japan?

The criminal code chapter 23 bans most forms of betting in Japan. Nevertheless, several exceptions exist. That means that only a few forms of gambling are legal. Pachinko is allowed because it is not considered betting, but pachinko arcades are still licensed and regulated. Horse racing, mahjong, some motorsports, and lotteries are legal, licensed, and regulated. Online betting (including e-sports betting) is currently illegal, therefore the online betting legislation Japan uses prohibits Japanese online casinos, but the authorities do not interfere with these activities, just as the Jordanian authorities do. Though Japan online gambling regulation prohibits online casinos, online gaming companies are not blocked, and players are not penalized – the laws do not appear to be enforced on operators or players. So, you can still find the best online casinos in Japan offers and place your bets on the allowed sports.

The legal gambling age in Japan is 20 years. However, the legal age to participate in pachinko is 18, except for lotteries with no age limitations. The Japanese regulatory commission regulates any form of land-based betting and gambling, lotteries, and skill games. The commission allows betting on horse races, motorcycle races, bicycle races, and motorboat races. You can find these sports on top Japan gambling sites, as well as land-based casinos. But they must be operated by the Japanese government or municipal bodies. This also applies to sports.

Casino games such as poker, roulette, blackjack, bingo may only be available in IR areas – Osaka city, Nagasaki’s Sasebo city, Yokohama city, and Wakayama prefecture. They require authorization from the minister for land, infrastructure, and transport. But still, the commission is responsible for their regulation. Licensed casinos must report the status of the casino and casino facility to the commission. Besides, any unlawful activities or breaches of law and regulations must be immediately reported to the commission. Government-designated cities and prefectures issue lottery tickets. You can only purchase them via the internet. Besides, their operations are delegated to specific banks.

In summary:

Step 1

Minimum age: 18 years of age or older

Step 2

Legal gambling: Social Gambling, Football Betting, Lottery, Horse Racing Betting

Step 3

Unspecified: Charitable Giving

Step 4

Changing status: Casino Gambling

Step 5

Regulatory Body: National and Local Governments

What are the best Japanese gambling sites and promotions?

Even though online betting is considered illegal under the Japanese Penal Code, Japanese authorities take a lenient approach by not blocking bookmakers by country from functioning. Players who use these sites are not prosecuted, which makes Japanese online casino players quite happy. Many of the biggest and most trusted names in online betting are actively taking bets from Japanese residents. These online casinos also offer players many valuable bonuses that are easy to collect. 5 Dimes will give Japanese online casino players $50 in bonuses while LSbet, Intertops, Casino-Mate, and Betclic offer $100 in casino bonuses.

TitanBet and BetMotion are all top-rated casinos, and they each have €100 for you to play with. Play Grand Casino will make you feel like you hit the jackpot with their incredible casino bonus package valued up to $10,000. Japanese poker fans have something to cheer about too. Bwin, TonyBet, and online poker giant Party Poker are all raising the stakes with their €500 in bonuses. Red Kings and RedBet are among the highest-rated poker sites, and they are giving up to €2,500 in poker bonuses

How to choose the best Japan gambling sites?

Though the online gambling law Japan does not allow wagering, you still can gamble on some of the best Japanese casino sites without any problems. But there is no a one size fits all criteria when looking for online casinos Japan has to offer. The guiding principle, however, should be what you need from a casino site. This section will list a few factors that might help you choose the right betting companies.

Tip

Licensing and Reputation

The best online casinos must have a legitimate gambling license. Besides, it should be registered by a reputable gaming commission such as Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, UK Gambling Commission, and Malta Gaming Authority. Check out the licensing information at the casino site’s footer or homepage. The precise information to identify is the license and registration numbers. A licensed casino follows strict standards, including offering fair and superior quality online casino games.

Game Selection

A worthy online casino site in Japan must have an extensive array of games, including your favorite casino games. The best gambling sites in Japan have the best range of games and quality games. So, go for those casinos using software from popular providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, Playtech, and Evolution Gaming. Note that some sites specialize in table games while others in slots. Opt for online casinos offering a mix of games from different gaming software developers. Popular games are blackjack, baccarat, video poker, roulette, slot machines, and live dealer games.

Site Security

The right casino website should protect your financial and personal data. That means going for nothing less than a top Japanese site that uses cutting-edge data encryption technology approved by safe betting sites list. Such technology ensures that third parties cannot access your details.

Bonuses and Promotions

Online casino bonuses are the best way to gamble risk-free. All casino websites offer such bonus to attract and retain customs. If you are on a virtual casino, you get generous virtual casino sign-up and reload bonuses. If you lose on games, get second chances with this casino reload bonus. Other gambling bonuses include free spins, deposit-free bonuses, rebates, and exclusive VIP programs. Casino bonuses in Japan are more on online casinos than traditional brick and mortar casinos, and they give you additional value. So, settle on a site with the best bonuses.

Deposit and Withdrawal Options

The currencies of bookmakers are as crucial as the method you use to load money on the online casino. For instance, JPY bookmakers and betting sites would work well if you are in Japan. The critical factor about the deposit and withdrawal method is determining its availability, average withdrawal time, and associated fees. You’ll get a variety of methods, including eWallets, direct bank transfers, Pay by Phone Bill, and more.

Others:

Mobile-friendly sites – they allow you to play on the go, read mobile betting sites for more information.

Excellent customer support – timely responses alongside multiple channels of reaching customer support team.

Top 5 games available on Japan gambling sites

The best online casino Japan, licenses have a variety of games. Some of the best online casino games are:

Slot Machine: Japan is popular in slot machines because they are straightforward to play games. Ideally, you won’t need complex strategies to play it, and approved casinos in Japan offer different online slots.

Poker: gamblers may ask; is online poker legal in Japan? This complex card game is another favorite for Japanese punters. Due to its complexity, many beginner players do not play poker – it’s the veterans who have made it a popular option.

Bingo: if you are looking for real fun, bingo offers a lot of fun. It’s addictive, thanks to multiple unique variants. However, winning at bingo can be challenging.

Blackjack: this is the second most popular game in Japanese online casinos. Though it involves plenty of strategies, it is much simpler than poker. That is why many beginner gamblers prefer it.

Other games you can play include roulette, baccarat, and game shows.

Recommended payment methods for Japan gambling sites

The official currency of Japan is the Yen. It is accepted almost everywhere and is sometimes offered as a currency option (just like crypto payment methods) at online gaming sites. For players looking for payment methods at international betting companies, there are a lot of options:

Further Information

EcoPayz bookmakers and betting sites

EcoPayz is a popular method that allows online gamblers to spend their money as they wish. The method is fast, secure, and reliable. EcoPayz bookmakers and betting sites are well known across Japan. You can deposit a minim of $30 and a maximum of $50. The maximum transaction value is $5000.

PurplePay bookmakers and betting sites

PurplePay is a relatively new payment method popular in New Zealand, Australia, and Canadian casinos. However, other countries are embracing it for its ease of use, security, and reliability. PurplePay bookmakers and betting sites, along with sports betting exchanges have PurplePay vouchers in the payment section. To use this method, select it from the available payment option, and you’ll receive a PurplePay link and confirm your purchase with your credit card on the official PurplePay website.

MasterCard bookmakers and betting sites

Mastercard produces a range of payment cards: debit card, credit card, gift card, and prepaid cards. These cards are widely accepted worldwide, so moving funds to your MasterCard bookmakers and betting sites is straightforward. Just get a card from your bank, link it to your bank account, and use it on your casino. Mastercard allows depositing and withdrawing from your casino account. You’ll need to enter your PIN for verification to deposit, and the bank will authorize your payment. However, Japanese banking rules demand that credit card transactions be declined for gambling activities. These banking rules also make bank wire transfers hard.

Maestro bookmakers and betting sites

Almost all casinos in Japan accept Maestro cards. Maestro is simply a debit card issued by a bank, and you’ll use it to transfer money from your bank account to an online casino site account. The method is popular because it is secure and has a minimal delay. Typically, deposits are instant, and the process of depositing is pretty straightforward. Select deposit funds or provided link, enter your card details (name, card number, expiry date) and then enter the amount.

Skrill bookmakers and betting sites

Skrill, alongside PayPal, is popular transactions methods on online casinos. It’s accepted worldwide among gamblers because it is easy to use. Gamblers can add Skrill to their betting account and deposit funds instantly. Additionally, Skrill bookmakers and betting sites allow quick access to winnings – gamblers can easily withdraw profits to their Skrill wallet with just a click.

PayPal bookmakers and betting sites

Best bookmakers by payment methods from Japan accept PayPal. Ideally, PayPal is the most popular method across online casinos and betting sites. For a bookie to qualify as a PayPal bookmaker and to bet sites, it must be fully licensed in a jurisdiction. So, this method promotes safe and secure gambling.

Click2Pay and EntroPay are also recommended and widely accepted. Check with your preferred online gaming site to find out what methods are accepted.

Mobile experience on Japan gambling sites

Japan is technologically advanced, and the younger population loves their smartphones. Also, all the games are digital. Online bettors can use their smartphones to access popular casino games like slots, poker, baccarat, and roulette and take advantage of the betting offers provided by the bookmakers. Another national favorite is the lottery games with progressive jackpot prizes. Also, the internet has made it possible for punters to enjoy live dealer games alongside professional virtual tournaments on best live casinos. You can use a web browser or a dedicated mobile app to play these games. So, check out the latest mobile casino apps for your Dragon Tiger casually or live dealer Blackjack tournaments.

Tips and tricks about Japan gambling sites

You can bet on one of the online betting sites from Japan. This explains the increase in the number of online casinos in Japan. The July 2018 law approved casinos to operate in the country. Weaker regulations have given international bookies a leeway to enter and dominate the gambling market in Japan. However, Japanese gambling sites are available to people within Japan because it is illegal to create a gambling site. The government controls all available gambling avenues within Japan. There is a massive rise in the number of online gamblers in Japan despite strict online gambling regulations. It’s true; any casino operating in Japan must have Japan online gambling license, which may not be easy to get. So, why is gambling illegal in Japan? It’s not illegal in all sports, but it’s more of tight regulation to reduce vices. Essentially, it’s a way of making gambling safe.

PROS

Strict licensing ensure that gambling services are safe
Online gambling offers lucrative bonuses
There s a wide variety of games to play
Many betting options

CONS

Bank payments aren't processed

FAQ about Japan gambling sites

Are Japanese gambling sites popular?

Japan doesn't have online betting platforms but has few land-based casinos. However, Japanese gamblers can bet on foreign gambling sites.

What currencies are available on Japan gambling sites?

The Japanese Yen is the currency on Japanese betting sites. However, international bookies incorporate additional currencies such as USD and Euro.

Is it safe to use Japan gambling sites?

That depends on the site you are playing on. All fully licensed gambling sites in japan are safe. However, you also need to practice safe betting, like not using open internet connections while transacting.

Are live sessions available on Japanese gambling sites?

Yes. Most gambling sites operating in Japan offer live dealer games. So, you can have a live dealer session on live casinos from the comfort of your home.

Esports are available on Japan gambling sites?

There is no homegrown e-sport betting site in Japan. But you can find that sport on international gambling sites operating in Japan.

What kind of odds format is used on Japan gambling sites?

Typical to Asian bookies, japan betting sites and bookmakers use Asian odds. However, foreign bookies use decimal odds because they are easy to understand.

How are customer services on Japan Gambling sites?

Since the gambling sites are fully licensed, their customer service is in part with the set standard, i.e., quick response, efficiency in solving issues, and multiple contact channels.

Japan Gambling Sites and Laws: What's Impact On Gambling?

Though gambling in Japan is termed illegal, many punters within Japanese borders can still place bets through online platforms, but on foreign sites. Online gambling options for players from Japan are diverse. Punters can select bookmakers by country and place their bets, even if they prefer live betting, in an easy manner. These casinos offer incredible promotions, and players cash in on all the casino benefits at any time.

Our top recommendation for gambling from Japan

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