Japan casino picture slowly coming into focus

Japan will make a decision for an integrated resort (IR) application from Osaka and Nagasaki in the coming months and probably this month. After that, the authorities may determine the fate of one or more unpublished IR licenses, and may apply for additional rounds, which may include a prime location in Tokyo and Hokkaido.

This is the unanimous view of various circumstances that exchanged opinions with Igaming Business in the first two months of 2023. Of course, there was a similar view in 2022 about the two IR applications for two IR applications.

Japan has been tossed by casino legalization for decades. The current initiative began in 2013 under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (then), and the last bill was passed in 2018, and Osaka and Nagasaki submitted bidding in April last year.

Over the past 10 months, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has not announced any bid. Even Macau and Singapore, which are innocent, took less than 10 weeks to get a groundbreaking casino license, but they are not Japan.

"In general, it is necessary to understand that the legal procedures and legal requirements for IR in Japan are completely different from other countries," says Toru Mihara, chairman of the National Gaming Legal Council. You cannot judge a delay just by comparing with other countries. "

"One of many reasons for the current delay is in a structural complexity incorporated into the legal system itself. In this structure, it takes time because no one can control all processes."

The process is shared by local governments selected candidates, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism evaluated local bidding, and the Japan Casino Regulatory Commission determines the conformity to the casino license.

"As I have experienced any new industries and techniques, Japan loves testing.

"Regarding games, Japan will continue to walk the process with your toes.

In the latter half of this year, specific movements may come out. "

According to Amusement Press Japan, edito r-i n-chief Tsuyoshi Tanaka, "I think the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will announce it in March because the Japanese government's fiscal year is until the end of March." < SPAN> Japan will probably make a decision for an integrated resort (IR) application from Osaka and Nagasaki this month. After that, the authorities may determine the fate of one or more unpublished IR licenses, and may apply for additional rounds, which may include a prime location in Tokyo and Hokkaido.

Rumour mill

"One of the most common reasons for the current delay lies in the structural complexity incorporated into the legal system itself. In this structure, it takes time because no one can control all processes."

"As I have experienced any new industries and techniques, Japan loves testing.

"Regarding games, Japan will continue to walk the process with your toes.

In the latter half of this year, specific movements may come out. "

According to Amusement Press Japan, edito r-i n-chief Tsuyoshi Tanaka, "I think the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will announce it in March because the Japanese government's fiscal year is until the end of March." Japan will make a decision for an integrated resort (IR) application from Osaka and Nagasaki in the coming months and probably this month. After that, the authorities may determine the fate of one or more unpublished IR licenses, and may apply for additional rounds, which may include a prime location in Tokyo and Hokkaido.

On shaky ground

"As I have experienced any new industries and techniques, Japan loves testing.

"Regarding games, Japan will continue to walk the process with your toes.

In the latter half of this year, specific movements may come out. "

Rising from the dead?

At the Diet in late November last year, Nobuyuki Baba, leader of the Japan Restoration Party (representing Osaka), urged Tetsuo Saito, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, to attract an IR in Osaka by the end of 2022.

Since then, rumors have been circulating that an IR decision is imminent, starting with Osaka's license being issued before the current Diet session opens on January 23.

After the deadline passes, new rumors emerge, explaining the delay and announcing a new approval date.

Looking at the Japanese political calendar, while a decision could be made at the end of the fiscal year, there are unified local elections on April 9, with the second round of voting on April 23. And Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will host the G7 summit in his hometown of Hiroshima on May 19-21.

Mihara, who serves as an IR advisor to the Abe administration, says, "We don't know, but it seems that the political world (at the core) does not want an issue that will inflame the public's emotions against the current administration and current policies." "Good examples are Yokohama and Wakayama, where IR became a simple political weapon to attack the ruling party.

IR efforts in both areas were terminated before they could be applied for with the central government, and local leaders who supported IR were no longer in charge.

Mihara, along with other sources, emphasizes that the government has an obligation to implement the IR law.

"Even if the prime minister wants to do so, no one can stop the IR implementation process. "A new law would be needed to abolish IR, which is not possible. But there is no deadline for the law to be implemented either.

“I want to, but not yet”

Mihara points out that during the Abe administration, the Prime Minister's Office, the Cabinet Office, and the ruling party were united in promoting IR.

"But now it's different. "Foreign Minister Kishida may just leave policies and implementation measures that will not benefit his approval rating.

"Who cares if there are additional delaying factors? Investors can always get out if they don't like it. This kind of unfriendly attitude towards the market exists and exists in Nagatacho and Kasumigaseki (the electoral districts in Tokyo that house Japan's elected national government and central bureaucracy, respectively)."

Two jurisdictions, Osaka and Nagasaki, are vying for three IR licenses each but are running into problems with their applications. Osaka's proposed IR site, the artificial island of Yumeshima, must deal with soil liquefaction and contamination. Osaka Prefecture has pledged to contribute 79 billion yen (£485. 2 million/€545. 3 million/$574. 8 million) to mitigate the IR site's soil problems, but that may not solve the problem.

MGM Resorts International, a US-based global hotel and casino operator, and Japanese financial services conglomerate Orix have pegged the Yumeshima IR at around $8. 5 billion (£7. 2 billion/€8. 1 billion) for construction and a 2029 opening date.

MGM did not respond to iGaming Business' request for comment.

Sources say the soil issues are contributing to delays in the licenses, injecting an element of uncertainty into a project that, if approved, would be a no-brainer for Japan.

Others believe that construction of the 2025 World Expo or the Expo itself may delay the start of construction on the IR. Amusement Japan's Tanaka sees a silver lining in the delay, given that an IR license is valid for 10 years.

Hard Rock ready

"If the plan is approved now, 70% to 80% of that period will be spent on construction work," Tanaka says. "The best scenario for MGM and Orix is to get formal provisional approval from the government soon, and then formal approval will come as soon as the Osaka Expo is over.

"I think the delay in approval has a lot to do with the relationship between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the Osaka-based Nippon Ishin no Kai," says Michael Zhu, a partner at Innovation Group, a defecting LDP faction that supports the project.

But no one doubts the commitment of Osaka's ruling party and its supporters to the IR.

"They believe that with an IR, they will be able to compete on an equal footing with Tokyo in international business and tourism," said Ado Machida, president of Hard Rock Japan, who is currently a stakeholder in the IR bid.

A $3 billion IR proposal in Nagasaki, led by Casinos Austria International, faces questions about its leadership (Casinos Austria has never built or operated an integrated resort in Asia), ownership, financing and size.

"The Nagasaki market may not have the same potential as Tokyo or Osaka, but I still think it needs a larger IR than what has been proposed so far," Zhu said.

Some observers have declared Nagasaki's bid a dead giveaway. Others see the unresolved issues as an opportunity, given the IR consortium model and reported behind-the-scenes efforts to shore up the proposal.

"This could be an opportunity," said Frederick Goossin, managing director of Spectrum Gaming.

Gambling Laws in Japan Explained 2024

"There's still a lot of work to be done related to IRs in Japan, but Spectrum believes there's a good chance the two pending IR projects will move forward," said Frederick Goossin, managing director of Spectrum Gaming. "If the government's actions or approvals are significantly delayed, the opening dates (2027 for Nagasaki and 2029 for Osaka) may need to be rescheduled.

The MLIT could approve either proposal or reject the unapproved bids outright, according to the source. Whatever decision is made on the current proposals, it will create a multi-billion dollar problem. The IR law only stipulates that the government must wait seven years after granting the first tranche of up to three licenses before issuing the next one.

"The Japanese government has poured manpower into the MLIT and the Japan Casino Regulatory Commission on the assumption that it will approve three IRs. I wouldn't be surprised if the MLIT announces it will accept more.

The source said the national government wants to see enthusiasm from the local governments before going ahead with another bidding process after only two companies bid for the three licenses. Meanwhile, the local governments want to see a commitment from the national government before embarking on the costly IR process in terms of financial and political capital.

Japan's IR The initial bid included a who's who of the gaming world, including Las Vegas Sands, Wynn Resorts, Caesars, Native American Hard Rock, Mohegan Gaming, Foxwoods, Rush Street, Genting Group, Macau's Galaxy Entertainment, Melco Resorts, and even Japanese gaming giant Sega Sammy, a partner in South Korea's Paradise City IR.

The operators appear to be looking for guarantees after Hokkaido, Yokohama, and Wakayama withdrew their bids following political changes.

Many local leaders are good at expressing their interest in IR, but their interests will develop into specific things. It's a scenario that anyone who has a relationship knows.
Still, there is a possibility that Hokkaido will participate in additional rounds. Governor Naomichi Suzuki has postponed the first round, saying that an environmental impact survey was needed before the IR was attracted. It is now reported that the survey has ended.
Hokkaido supporters say that IR is needed to expand the charm of Hokkaido besides skiing vacations and release the potential of sightseeing in the vast northern territory. Before Hokkaido withdrawn, at least four businesses showed specific interests.
In Tokyo, Governor Yuriko Koike has forgotten the IR invitation for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the 2020 summer Olympics (held in 2021). These events have finally passed, and the adjacent Yokohama has been out of the candidate, so Tokyo may enter an additional round.
Lvs founder Sheldon Aderson has been trying to make IR in Tokyo for a long time, but it is the center of Japanese business, politics, culture, and population, and the Kanto region has a population of 42 million in Japan. It is hard to say that there is a foresight to find the possibility of occupying on e-third of the total population.
IGB asked several companies that have previously participated in IR if they are interested in new bidding. Only one company answered officially.
"Hard Rock Japan Machida says," We had an office in Tokyo and Hokkaido even when competitors were withdrawn.
"We believe that Japan will be a treasure in Asia as a worl d-class description resort.
"The vision of calling 60 million tourists by 2030 is a good thing, and it can be achieved even with Cavid, but a facility that people can go are needed, and people are needed. I need an attraction that I want to go to, and I don't want to have a worl d-class desaction resort, but in Japan.

The Legality of Gambling in Japan

"Florida Hollywood is very close to Miami, next to Fort Loader Dale, and has our signature guitar hotel.

Machida, who joined the hard rock in 2018, has been a hard rock Mirage of Las Vegas Strip since the latter half of 2019, when Hokkaido, a target description, has forgotten to participate in IR bidding. Add if the hotel is opened.

Started in 1983 from a hard rock cafe in Roppongi, Tokyo. "We believe we have succeeded in integrating the brand of hard rock into Japanese unique ones. That is what we bring to Japanese hard rock integrated resorts. That is the Japanese economy. I think it is necessary for the future of sightseeing, "says Machida.

"For the past 40 years, we have been doing our best to bring the finest description resort to Japan."

If Hokkaido and Tokyo participate in additional rounds, hard rock will not be the only IR bidder. Hard rock, Pink Floyd's Shine on You Crazy Diamond takes more than 25 minutes, but Beach Boys' Little Due Coupe takes less than two minutes.

This article is intended for information only and does not provide legal advice. Please consult a lawyer for any problem or issue. The use of this article and links does not build the relationship between a lawyer and the client. My opinion does not reflect the opinions of our office or individual lawyers.

Click here for Japanese translation

Many believe Japan is a perfect tourist destination. But it may not be the case for betting lovers. Japan is one of many places in the world that imposes severe gambling laws.

The Japanese government prohibits gambling. In 2021, Japanese authorities arrested 378 gambling machines. Only specific games can be operated under special laws.

How Japan’s Gambling Laws Work

Find a Japanese gambling scene and explore Japan's regulations and laws. Know the impact on the law and culture.

Highlights of the article

The Japanese government bans gambling under Article 1907 of the Penal Code.

In 2018, the Japanese parliament enacted a law that allowed the establishment of an integrated resort (IR).

IR is a facility or complex facility that enables operating a licensed legal casino.

There are only two areas in Japan that applied for IR. Nagasaki and Osaka prefectures.
Sportsbetting, lottery, and pachinko are gambling exempted by criminal law.
Horse racing has raised 3. 25 billion yen in sports betting in Japan.
In 2021, the market size of pachinko and pachislot reached 14. 6 trillion yen.

The total sales of Japanese lotteries will reach 813 trillion yen in 2021.

The Yakuza are powerful Japanese syndicates that run illegal gambling and other criminal activities.

Japan has long banned privately owned gambling. Whether land-based or digital, the 1907 Criminal Code prohibits such activities.

A silver lining for the hopes of Japan's avid gamblers came when lawmakers passed a bill in 2018 proposing casino integration in resort areas. Developers plan to establish the first casino resort in Osaka.

Singapore has revived tourism by integrating gambling casinos in resort areas to attract more people.

Act on the Development of Specified Integrated Resort Districts

Before the pandemic began, Singapore's casino market was the second largest in the world.

The bill would impose a 30% tax on Japan's three casino licenses, which would go to the central and local government coffers. Only 3% of the casino's land area would be allocated for gambling.

Foreigners would be free to visit integrated casinos, but locals would have to pay 6, 000 yen and would be limited to playing three days a week and 10 times a month.

As the Japanese economy gradually recovers from the pandemic, the development of casinos in Japan will go a long way in attracting investors and tourists.
Japan is an ideal market for casinos in Asia. It has the third largest economy in the world and a population of over 126 million.
Before you go to Japan, you should familiarize yourself with Japanese laws. Let's dig into Japanese laws surrounding gambling.
Japan defines gambling as "the act of two or more persons betting on the outcome of a game of chance." "Whereby, they compete for a prize in the form of property or assets.
A game of chance is one in which the outcome of the game is beyond the control of the contestants and is unpredictable. Even if the outcome depends on the skill of the players, if the outcome also depends on chance, it is considered a "game of chance."

According to Article 185, gambling is punishable by a fine of up to 500, 000 yen.

So, is gambling legal in Japan? No, but some types of gambling are exceptions to this law.

Publicly-run sports

Horse racing

Bicycle racing

Japan’s Gambling Scene

Boat racing

Motorcycle racing,

These activities are permitted because they fall under the category of "momentary entertainment." These are low-value gambling activities and do not encourage extreme gambling.

Still, the government requires game organizers to obtain operating licenses, and authorities only grant licenses to local governments or government-related organizations.
Taking into account several factors, a gambling license can cost anywhere from $20, 000 to $120, 000.

In that case, businesses may have to maintain their rights by paying a $ 25, 00 0-specific fee.

It is a crime for a private person to run a gambling hall. There is a possibility that a prison will be sentenced to 3 months or more and 5 years or less.

On July 27, 2018, Japan enacted the "Law on the Development of Specified Composite Resort Areas" and legalized gaming under private organizations approved in a specific location in Japan.

The important intention of this law is to promote domestic tourism. This law also provides policies to maintain the soundness and competitiveness of the market.

This law enables the establishment of an integrated resort (IR). According to the provisions of the law, the resort is required to provide the following fields:

Recreation facility

Sightseeing facility

How Criminal Code Chapter 23 Dictates the Gambling Industry in Japan

Accommodation

Convention center

casino

These facilities must meet the standards set by a Cabinet Order. In other words, business operators who provide only casino services are not qualified to be licensed.

The new law aims to legalize gambling in casinos in designated areas in Japan, and all purposes are to increase Japan's tourism rate by 10.

There are only three IRs so far. Only two of them (Nagasaki and Osaka) have applied for the establishment of IR.

This development is promising for those who want to visit Japan and enjoy gambling. This is because the first IR with a casino in Osaka will open in 2029.
Let's briefly explain the history and development of gambling in Japan.

According to historical data, Japanese gambling has existed since the 7th century. In ancient times, betting was illegal.

A casino game like a poker was introduced to Japan, along with the opening of the country. However, the criminal law enacted in 1907 made gambling in all forms illegal.

Japan’s Love for Gambling

Liberal Democratic Party, Hachiro Konogi, has declared that gambling is a major rule in countries that still have sunshine today.

Hachiro Konoko, Liberal Democratic Party National Public Safety Commission

"The IR maintenance method has a provision for casinos, but online casinos are not found in casinos and are not legalized by the new law.

Japan's online gambling regulations prohibit virtual activities using online casinos. < SPAN> In that case, the business may have to maintain the right by paying a $ 25, 00 0-worth of $ 25, 000.	It is a crime for a private person to run a gambling hall. There is a possibility that a prison will be sentenced to 3 months or more and 5 years or less.	On July 27, 2018, Japan enacted the "Law on the Development of Specified Composite Resort Areas" and legalized gaming under private organizations approved in a specific location in Japan.
The important intention of this law is to promote domestic tourism. This law also provides policies to maintain the soundness and competitiveness of the market.	2021	This law enables the establishment of an integrated resort (IR). According to the provisions of the law, the resort is required to provide the following fields:
Recreation facility	2022	Sightseeing facility
Accommodation	2021	Convention center
casino	2022	These facilities must meet the standards set by a Cabinet Order. In other words, business operators who provide only casino services are not qualified to be licensed.
The new law aims to legalize gambling in casinos in designated areas in Japan, and all purposes are to increase Japan's tourism rate by 10.	2022	There are only three IRs so far. Only two of them (Nagasaki and Osaka) have applied for the establishment of IR.
This development is promising for those who want to visit Japan and enjoy gambling. This is because the first IR with a casino in Osaka will open in 2029.	2021	Let's briefly explain the history and development of gambling in Japan.

According to historical data, Japanese gambling has existed since the 7th century. In ancient times, betting was illegal.

The Casino Regulatory Committee

A casino game like a poker was introduced to Japan, along with the opening of the country. However, the criminal law enacted in 1907 made gambling in all forms illegal.

Liberal Democratic Party, Hachiro Konogi, has declared that gambling is a major rule in countries that still have sunshine today.

Hachiro Konoko, Liberal Democratic Party National Public Safety Commission

"The IR maintenance method has a provision for casinos, but online casinos are not found in casinos and are not legalized by the new law.

Japan's online gambling regulations prohibit virtual activities using online casinos. In that case, businesses may have to maintain their rights by paying a $ 25, 00 0-specific fee.

It is a crime for a private person to run a gambling hall. There is a possibility that a prison will be sentenced to 3 months or more and 5 years or less.

On July 27, 2018, Japan enacted the "Law on the Development of Specified Composite Resort Areas" and legalized gaming under private organizations approved in a specific location in Japan.

The important intention of this law is to promote domestic tourism. This law also provides policies to maintain the soundness and competitiveness of the market.

This law enables the establishment of an integrated resort (IR). According to the provisions of the law, the resort is required to provide the following fields:

Recreation facility

The Depiction of Betting in Japan’s Culture

Sightseeing facility

Accommodation

Convention center	casino	These facilities must meet the standards set by a Cabinet Order. In other words, business operators who provide only casino services are not qualified to be licensed.
The new law aims to legalize gambling in casinos in designated areas in Japan, and all purposes are to increase Japan's tourism rate by 10.	There are only three IRs so far. Only two of them (Nagasaki and Osaka) have applied for the establishment of IR.	This development is promising for those who want to visit Japan and enjoy gambling. This is because the first IR with a casino in Osaka will open in 2029.
Let's briefly explain the history and development of gambling in Japan.	According to historical data, Japanese gambling has existed since the 7th century. In ancient times, betting was illegal.	A casino game like a poker was introduced to Japan, along with the opening of the country. However, the criminal law enacted in 1907 made gambling in all forms illegal.
Liberal Democratic Party, Hachiro Konogi, has declared that gambling is a major rule in countries that still have sunshine today.	Hachiro Konoko, Liberal Democratic Party National Public Safety Commission	"The IR maintenance method has a provision for casinos, but online casinos are not found in casinos and are not legalized by the new law.

Japan's online gambling regulations prohibit virtual activities using online casinos.

The Japanese government has illegal online gambling, but there are also gamblers who take dangerous means to participate in illegal activities.

Convention center	casino	These facilities must meet the standards set by a Cabinet Order. In other words, business operators who provide only casino services are not qualified to be licensed.
According to a survey conducted by Osaka Prefecture in 2020, the estimated 98, 000 patients with gambling addiction were 98, 000. Another government survey revealed that in 2021, 2. 2 % (2. 8 million), a total population, was gambling addiction.	Gambling addiction has illegal gambling. In January 2023, the Tokyo Police arrested eight people who have been gambling in Kabukicho since 2005.	The Japanese Ministry of Justice enacted the latest version of the criminal law in 1907. The enactment of the law will take a long time, and the first promulgation version dates back to 1880.
Masahisa Matsuda has begun creating this law. Masahisa was a member of the Friendship Association and served as the Minister of Justice in 1906.	Gambling addiction has illegal gambling. In January 2023, the Tokyo Police arrested eight people who have been gambling in Kabukicho since 2005.	It is still illegal to play a legal online casino operated by Japanese individuals overseas.
Online casino users who participated in such an act may be fined or arrested.	Gambling addiction has illegal gambling. In January 2023, the Tokyo Police arrested eight people who have been gambling in Kabukicho since 2005.	Those who committed a crime in Japan

Even if you are outside Japan, you are on board Japanese ships and aircraft.

Convention center	casino	These facilities must meet the standards set by a Cabinet Order. In other words, business operators who provide only casino services are not qualified to be licensed.
There are legal games in Japan. They fall into the exception of "temporary entertainment".	The following is the breakdown of gambling participants for each gambling activity:	Activity
Year	Participant	pachinko

7. 2 million people

Betting Forms Available in Japan

Horse racing

196. 8 million people

lottery

Kōei Kyōgi

$ 22. 23 million

Motorcycle racing

Kyōtei (Boat Racing)

0. 84 million

Motorcycle racing

1. 7 million dollars

Boat racing

426. 3 million dollars

The figures above prove that the Japanese people love gambling. Despite its strict laws, Japan is often called the "mother of modern gambling".

The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission (JCRC) oversees the casino industry in Japan. Japanese lawmakers established this commission last year in January 2022.

Keiba (Horse Racing)

The establishment of this commission follows the passage of Law No. 80 of 2018, also known as the "Act on the Development of Specified Integrated Resort Areas".

The JCRC is an independent administrative agency. It oversees the licensing and regulation of casino operators in Japan. It also investigates and enforces the rules of the casino industry.

The government divides regulations into four categories:

Category
1. Market regulation through licensing	2. Casino facility/equipment regulation
3. Casino operation activity regulation	4. Response to concerns
The mission of the committee is to "ensure a trustworthy casino administration by enforcing strict casino regulation based on the law".	Gambling permeates the Japanese cultural scene. Its popularity has inspired modern pop culture.
Today, many creative works depict gambling as part of Japanese culture. Below are some popular gambling-related content in Japan and around the world.	Fictional works
Type	Content

1. Kakegurui - Gambler

Manga/Anime series
Jabami Yumeko is a transfer employee with a gambling addiction. Her skills are incredible. In the story, she uses gambling to destroy the hierarchy at the school she transfers to.
2. Kaiji Ultimate Survivor

Anime series

Kaiji is a poor man with a gambling addiction who gets caught up in the life-threatening world of gambling.

3. Tetsuya: The Legend of Gambler

Manga series

Asada Tetsuya is a boy who learned gambling through his uncle's introduction. He seeks bigger stakes by taking on American soldiers in Yokosuka.

There are still many anime related to gambling being made in Japan, as they combine gambling with an appealing story.

Keirin (Bicycle Racing)

Film adaptations are also popular in Japan. Famous anime and manga series are adapted into films, garnering attention among audiences.

Fiction

Type

Content

1. Pale Flower (1964)	These facilities must meet the standards set by a Cabinet Order. In other words, business operators who provide only casino services are not qualified to be licensed.	Pale Flower is said to be one of the best Japanese gambling films. Yakuza Muraki meets Saeko, a woman who dreams of gambling. The two of them dive into a world of thrills, adventures, and gambling.
2. Kakegurui (2019)	Movie	This film adaptation of the anime series Kakegurui depicts Yumeko, who has exceptional gambling skills.
3. Kaiji: The Final Game (2020)	Movie	In this final chapter of the Kaiji saga, Kaiji challenges four casino games, thrilling viewers.
Gambling has also permeated the Japanese literary scene. Japan has published a number of books that depict the nation's gambling culture and love for betting. See the list below.	Fiction Works	Type
Content	1. Pachinko	Fiction/Book
Pachinko tells the story of a Korean family who moves to Japan. Explore Japan's bustling cities, universities, and pachinko parlors.	2. No Game No Life	Fiction/Book Series
The story of Sora and Shiro, who are sucked into a different world called Disboard, and gambling.	There are many works in Japan that deal with gambling. The gambling industry permeates Japanese culture, showing how important gambling is.	Due to strict regulations, there are limited options when it comes to gambling in Japan. Despite this, the passion for gambling remains strong. Gambling is still one of people's favorite pastimes.
According to a survey, the online gambling population in Japan is expected to reach 11. 04 million by 2027. With this increase in the gambling population, analysts predict that the betting scene in Japan will increase exponentially.	The options may not be as diverse as in other countries, but the games will still entertain those who play.	Japan has named four publicly managed sports as "public sports". These are the only four where gambling is allowed. These are operated under special laws managed and regulated by the government.

Check out the facts and figures about public racing below to see how big a part these sports play in entertainment and gambling in Japan.

Hydroplane racing was introduced to Japan in 1952. The first race took place at the Omura Boathouse in Omura, Nagasaki Prefecture.

The boat race takes place on a 400m by 150m lake and is contested by six drivers. Drivers must circle two buoys, 300m apart.

The fastest driver to complete three laps around the buoys is declared the winner.

Ōtorēsu (Auto Race – Motorcycle Racing)

The pace of the entire race is very fast, sometimes taking less than a minute. All drivers have practice races so bettors can decide who to choose before placing their bets.

Kyotei Stadium is open from 10am and can host 12 races a day. Bettors can place bets at the stadium or on the official website. They can also watch the races on TV.

The bets on the Keio Cup are unlimited. However, there is a 100 yen fee and you must spend a minimum of 500 yen per bet.

Gamblers can bet on the winning horse, the horses that come in 1st to 3rd, and a wide range of custom bets. In 2022, the total turnover of Japanese boat racing reached 2. 44 trillion yen.

The history of horse racing in Japan dates back centuries. However, British citizens in Yokohama first held a European-style horse race. It was in the spring of 1862.

Horse racing is the highest-revenue sports betting competition in Japan. The history of sports betting can be traced back to the early days of Western civilization, which influenced Japan.

Horse racing in Japan is an equestrian sport, with over 21, 000 races held annually. It is organized by the Japan Racing Association (JRA). There are 10 JRA racetracks across the country.
JRA Racetracks in Japan

- Tokyo Racecourse

- Nakayama Racecourse

- Kyoto Racecourse

- Hanshin Racecourse

- Sapporo Racecourse
- Hakodate Racecourse	- Fukushima Racecourse
- Niigata Racecourse	- Chukyo Racecourse
- Kokura Racecourse	The types of horse racing you can bet on in Japan are as follows:
Flat races	Jump races

Ban'ei horse racing

Takarakuji

A race between jockeys on a flat course. The first to finish wins. Suitable for people who have no experience with horse racing.

There is a specific breed of horse used in horse racing, called "thoroughbreds." Thoroughbreds are trained and conditioned for racing, so they are well-built and agile on the racetrack.

Jump racing is a race in which the jockey and horse go through an obstacle course. It is less popular than flat racing. The racetrack has various ditches, fences, and other obstacles.

Ban'ei horse racing is the most complicated of the three. The jockey rides in a sled, which the horse must pull down a sandy slope. It is only held at Hokkaido Racecourse.

Pachinko

For first-time bettors, the JRA distributes a leaflet titled "How to bet on horse racing."

Horse racing has the highest revenue among the four sports betting competitions, with total sales reaching 3. 25 trillion yen in 2022.

Keirin is a type of bicycle race by track cyclists. It was developed by the Japanese around 1948 for gambling purposes. The race takes place on a velodrome (a track dedicated to bicycle racing).

It was officially recognized as an Olympic sport in 1996. Keirin made its debut at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.

Currently, the Japan Keirin Auto Race (JKA) Foundation regulates this gambling. In this sport, cyclists compete against each other to be the first to reach the finish line.

Casinos in Japan

There are seven types of bets on Keirin competitions.

Bet type

The Yakuza’s Hold on Japan’s Illegal Gambling Scene

Bet contents

Odds of winning

Trifecta

Predict the first three winners in the correct order.

1/504
Trio
Predict the first three places in any order

1/84

Perfecta

Predict the first two winners in the correct order

1/72

Quinella

Predict the first two wins in any order

1/36

Bracket Perfecta

Predict the first two brackets in the correct order.

1/33

Betting and Gambling Age Restriction in Japan

Bracket Quinella

Predict the first two brackets in any order.
1/18	Quinella Place (or Wide)
Predict the two cyclists who will finish in the top three places.	3/36

All keirin events are divided into six grades. In each grade, riders must reach a certain rank. The Keirin Grand Prix is the most eagerly awaited keirin event of the year.

The Keirin Grand Prix takes place every year on December 30th. Here, nine riders compete in one race to determine the champion. The prize money for the winner is 100 million yen.

Gambling Penalties in Japan

In Japan, there are schools for aspiring athletes and competitors in sports such as keirin. To become a professional keirin rider, one must graduate from the Japan Keirin School in Izu.

There are many off-track betting parlors and velodrome in Japan where you can bet on keirin. In 2022, the total amount of bets on keirin was 1. 9 trillion yen, making it the third most bet among sports in Japan.

Auto racing is the Japanese version of motorcycle flat track racing. It is run by the Japan Keirin Auto Racing Association.

The first race was held in Funabashi in 1950. In 1960, the government banned this traditional sport.
The government controls this sport. Eight riders compete on a circuit. The race is six laps long, going around the course counterclockwise.

Otosu will play 12 games a day. However, you can only participate once a day. As a result, 96 players will challenge the race a day.

A straight line is 150km, 90km at the corner, and a 105km speed on average.
There are two types of auto races.

Handicap race: Slo w-speed players can start from the front, and fast players can start from behind. In this method, slow players can appear 10 meters before the fast players.

No n-Hander Cap Race (Open Race): All players start without handicap from the same start line.
Sportsbetting laws vary from country to country, but sports betting is strictly prohibited in many regions in Asia and the Middle East. By learning the gambling method of each country before participating, you can have a safe and reliable experience.
The audience can watch and experience the auto racing competition at the stadium. You can also watch it on the Internet or on TV.

Auto race gambling is the lowest in Japan. The sales in 2022 were only 107. 5 billion yen. This amount is much less than other sports betting competitions that collect trillion yen.

Let's check the ranking of each public competition in recent years.

Infamous Japanese Figures that Violated Japan’s Penal Code 1907

💸 Sports betting competition income

🐎 horse racing

Tsukusa Akimoto

3. 25 trillion yen

Boat race

Five Lawmakers Under Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP)

2, 440 billion yen

Bicycle race 1. 9 trillion yen

1. 9 trillion yen

🏎️Auto race

107. 5 billion yen

Bottomline

These public competitions have generated a trillion yen revenue. This proves that gambling, which is responsible, activates the national economy.

In Japan, lottery is translated as a lottery. Under the Japanese law, only the government can issue online lotteries, and the Japan Sports Promotion Center has issued a lottery of sports promotion.

FAQs

Lottery in prefectures can be purchased at ATMs, and you can buy it with a scratch card. A local convenience store (convenience store) sells scratch cards.

The lottery regulations are based on the lottery law, and the total prize must be 50 % or less of the total sales. Lotteries can only be issued in 12 governmen t-designated cities and 47 prefectures.

Lottery sales in Japan has been consistent since 2017, an average of about 830 million yen. The latest data reached 813 trillion yen in 2021.

Pachinko parlors are overflowing throughout Japan. It is everywhere, closest to the casino in Japan.

Japanese law does not legally use pachinko parlors. However, it corresponds to "temporary gaming" and has been recognized in domestic sales.

Pachinko parlors have long passed the law in this way. Players can replace the winning money with small equipment called "prizes". In addition, this equipment can be exchanged for another prize in another building.

According to a report of the Ministry of Industry statistics, pachinko parlors became 2, 580 billion yen in 2022. This amount exceeds 2. 5 trillion yen in the previous year. The market size of pachinko and pachislot in 2021 reaches 14. 6 trillion yen. There are about 7670 pachinko parlors nationwide.

Currently, there is no legal casino in Japan. For a long time, Japan has banned casino gambling.

Japan Now on Track to Open Its First Casino in 2030

However, in the future, casinos will be available in Japan. In 2029, Japan's first integrated resort opened in Osaka.

Yakuza is a Japanese gang, which dates back to the 17th century. This organization is a notorious criminal organization.

In the 1960s, there were estimated 184, 000 members. In the 21st century, the number was thought to have decreased to 80, 000. Yakuza was also called a "gang."
In 1992, Japan enacted the Gangsters Countermeasures Law. The law broke up 192 gangs.
Yakuza has more than 3, 000 syndicate all over Japan. The biggest syndicate is as follows:

Yamaguchi Gumi

Key Points

Inagaw a-kai
Sumiyosh i-kai
These syndicate account for nearly 70 % of the whole yakuza.

Summary

The largest syndicate, Yamaguchi Gumi, is said to be $ 1. 15 million, $ 11. 5 million. The monthly income of the casino is estimated 100 million yen.

Yamaguch i-gumi is composed of 23, 400 members. They are active in 44 prefectures in Japan and collect wealth through extortion, customs industry, real estate / construction, weapon trafficking, and gambling.

The Japanese National Police Agency has reported that the total revenue of the entire yakuza is $ 1. 3 trillion and $ 11. 8 billion.

Yakuza was an important issue for the government. More than 17, 000 people were arrested in 2017 for a split yakuza conflict and conflict.

Currently, yakuza dominates the field of illegal gambling. Casino, mahjong shop, pachinko parlor, etc. Yakuza owns many nightclubs, bars, and other entertainment facilities.

Yakuza have close ties to influential figures such as politicians and business leaders. They have influence over real estate, construction projects, and even sports teams.

Authorities have discovered that the Yakuza have secretly interfered in Japanese MMA, severely affecting the sport's reputation and fighters.

In September 2020, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police arrested a Yakuza boss who operated a casino in Roppongi. He ran a baccarat gambling hall and made 480 million yen.

A more recent incident occurred in April 2022. The Metropolitan Police Department arrested four Yakuza members who were operating an illegal casino in Tokyo.

Cost Increases and Delays

In Japan, the age limit varies depending on the type of gambling. The age limit in Japan is similar to that of other countries. The age limit for gambling is 18 years old or older.

Age Restrictions for Gambling in Japan

Public Racing

A Strategic Location with Lofty Expectations

20 years and older

Pachinko

18 years and older

Public Concerns and Regulatory Hurdles

Public racing in Japan (boat racing, horse racing, auto racing, bicycle racing) is for people 20 years and older.

Pachinko is prohibited for people under 18 years old. It is prohibited by law for high school students who are 18 years old.

Chapter 23 of the Japanese Criminal Code deals with crimes related to gambling and lotteries. This chapter contains Articles 185, 186, and 187.

The following provisions prohibit gambling in Japan and prescribe penalties for such acts.

Article 185 deals with gambling. It states:

The Daily Newsletter

Anyone who indulges in gambling shall be punished with a fine of not more than 500, 000 yen.

Elim Poon - Journalist, Creative Writer

Last modified: 27.08.2024

Shares in Australia's no.2 casino operator Star Entertainment slumped over 50% to a record low on Friday, as it resumed trading a day after. International formally proposed building a $9 billion casino resort in Osaka, reinvigorating its push to open Japan's first casino gambling facility. Shohei Ohtani is referred to in Japan as “kanpeki no hito” — the perfect person — because of his manners and impeccable behavior.

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