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Japanese online casinos for Real Money

Welcome to Real.casino’s top picks for the best online casinos in Japan! Our expert team has carefully curated this list to provide you with the most secure, trustworthy, and entertaining real money casino experiences. Explore and enjoy your favorite games at the most reputable Japanese online casinos today!

Japan Casino Guide

Getting Started

Japan is a country where gambling splits the crowd. Some see it as a fun pastime with the potential to make a spot of real money. Others see it as a shameful and dangerous hobby to engage in. The official Japanese response aims to placate both sides of the argument by making gambling illegal but not prosecuting those who engage in it (well, not the players, anyway).

What does this mean for the average Japanese person who wants to enjoy a spot of gambling online? We’ve poured through the Japanese gambling laws and come up with an answer. Let’s take you on a journey through the Japanese betting sector right here.

Japan’s Gambling Laws and Regulations

Japan’s gambling laws form a part of its Criminal Code. There are some exceptions, but for the most part, Japan doesn’t tolerate gambling. If you’re interested in betting on horse racing, that option is open to you.

Similarly, the petrol and engine-mad Japanese also permit betting on selected motorsports. Traditional games like pachinko, mah-jong and the national lottery are also deemed legal ways to gamble online.

Western games like poker, blackjack and roulette are typically illegal, but there are underground venues where these games are played. The Japanese are quick to shut them down where they spring up, but many Yakuza-run underground establishments remain. These are not the types of places the average Japanese wants to get involved in. There are no land-based casinos present in the Asian island nation, so that solves that problem. Some Japanese head over to Macau to gamble in land-based venues, and that is deemed okay.

When it comes to online gambling, there is more wiggle room. Now, officially, Japan has outlawed online gambling. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t gamble on games. The Criminal Code of Japan is quite vague when it comes to online gambling. Yes, technically, any form of gambling (save for the precious few exceptions listed above) is illegal, and yet there are many sites based offshore that cater to Japanese players.

Who Regulates and Licenses Japanese Casino Sites?

Japan doesn’t want its nationals and residents gambling at online casinos; that much is clear. However, they don’t actively take steps to prevent it. They do not block foreign and offshore casinos that cater to Japanese players, nor do they prosecute Japanese who play at said sites. This is seemingly part of the compromise, walking the tightrope between those nationals who oppose gambling and those who support it.

Japan has talked about legalising land-based casinos as a means to drum up tourism from Asia, where gambling is gaining in popularity. However, no moves have been made in that regard. Similarly, there are no real authorities to hand out gambling licenses to any land-based or online casinos that might emerge in the future.

The primary company allowed to offer gambling games in Japan is Takarakuji. This is a state-owned lottery company. They provide games such as Loto 6, Loto 7 and Mini Loto. Tickets can be bought online (only at the monopoly’s website) and in land-based outlets.

Japan’s Most Popular Gambling Games

Casino gambling is not as popular in Japan as you might imagine. There are lots of Western-style games that tend to do the rounds, including those already mentioned. However, the Japanese prefer to play poker and bet on sports. These two are the leading games to gamble on in the country, not counting the fully legal lottery options, of course. Most Japanese casinos (all of which are based offshore) provide live dealer games, and some titles, such as baccarat, Sic Bo and table poker, are gaining in popularity. Sadly, precious few of the games that are popular in Japan can be played in Japanese at these offshore sites.

While the country is famous for its video game developers, there aren’t many software providers offering gambling games to the masses. The one exception is Konami, which has made the jump from the video gaming world to the online gambling one rather successfully. It may be a giant in the video game world, but Konami remains a small contender when it comes to the giants of the internet betting world.

Who Can Play?

The only Japanese casinos you can choose to play at are based offshore. Of these sites, there are two distinct options. There are online casinos that are international and accept players from Japan, and there are online casinos that are based offshore but predominantly cater to players solely from Japan. The difference is night and day.

With the former, you’re literally looking at playing games in English with a worldwide currency, such as the USD, or with cryptocurrencies. However, at Japanese-centric offshore casinos, you are looking at sites that only offer the Japanese language, that accept the JPY currency, and that are virtually non-accessible (because of the language barrier) for non-Japanese speakers. It is these sites that tend to be most frequented by Japanese bettors online.

Online Casino Payment Options

In Japan, there are several payment methods exclusive to Japanese players. Below, we have categorized these payment methods into credit/debit cards, e-wallets, prepaid cards, and cryptocurrencies.

Credit / Debit Cards:

  • JCB Card: JCB is a popular credit card company based in Japan, and it is widely accepted by online casinos for Japanese players. It is known for its excellent customer service, high acceptance rate, and secure transactions. JCB cards can be used for both deposits and withdrawals.
  • UFJ Card: UFJ Card is a credit card issued by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, one of the largest banks in Japan. These cards are commonly used by Japanese players at online casinos, as they offer secure transactions, low fees, and quick processing times.

E-Wallets:

  • Rakuten Pay: Rakuten Pay is a popular e-wallet service in Japan, operated by Rakuten, a major Japanese e-commerce company. It is widely accepted by online casinos and allows users to make secure, instant deposits and withdrawals without sharing their bank account or credit card information.
  • LINE Pay: LINE Pay is an e-wallet service provided by LINE Corporation, the company behind the popular messaging app LINE. Japanese players can use LINE Pay to deposit funds into their online casino accounts securely and quickly, with minimal fees.

Prepaid Cards:

  • WebMoney Japan: WebMoney Japan is a Japanese version of the WebMoney payment system. It allows users to purchase prepaid cards, which can then be used to fund their online casino accounts without sharing personal financial information. These prepaid cards are available in various denominations and can be easily purchased at convenience stores across Japan.

Cryptocurrencies:

  • Bitcoin (BTC): Bitcoin is a popular cryptocurrency used by Japanese players at online casinos. It provides fast, secure, and private transactions with low fees. Many online casinos catering to Japanese players now accept Bitcoin for deposits and withdrawals.
  • Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum is another popular cryptocurrency in Japan, and some online casinos accept it as a payment method. Like Bitcoin, Ethereum offers secure, fast, and private transactions, making it an attractive option for Japanese players.
  • Ripple (XRP): Ripple is a cryptocurrency designed for fast, low-cost international transactions. Some Japanese players prefer using XRP for online casino transactions due to its speed and low fees.

Casinos by Category

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Recently added casinos that accept players from JP.

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New Online Slots Japan

We show only games that allow real money betting from Japan.

F.A.Q's

1. Is online gambling legal in Japan?

Online gambling in Japan is a gray area. While land-based casinos are strictly regulated and limited to integrated resorts, there are no specific laws governing online casinos. However, Japanese players can still access and play at offshore online casinos that accept Japanese players and offer Japanese yen (JPY) as a currency option. To learn more about the legal aspects of online gambling, visit our Licensing and Regulation section.

2. Are Japanese players taxed on their winnings from online casinos?

Japanese players are not required to pay taxes on their winnings from online casinos. However, this only applies to recreational players. If you are a professional gambler, your income may be subject to taxation. It’s always wise to consult with a tax professional to understand your specific tax obligations.

3. What types of online casino games are popular in Japan?

Japanese players enjoy a variety of online casino games, including slots, table games, and live dealer games. Some traditional Japanese games like Pachinko and Mahjong are also popular. To explore the range of available online casino games, check out our Online Casino Games page.

4. What payment methods are popular among Japanese players?

Popular payment methods for Japanese players include credit and debit cards, e-wallets like ecoPayz and Skrill, and local bank transfers. Some online casinos also accept cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. Visit our Payment Methods page for more information on the various banking options available.

5. Are online casino bonuses available for Japanese players?

Yes, Japanese players can take advantage of various online casino bonuses, including welcome bonuses, reload bonuses, and loyalty programs. To learn more about the different types of bonuses and how to maximize their value, visit our Bonuses and Loyalty Programs guide.

6. Is it safe for Japanese players to gamble online?

As long as you choose a reputable and licensed online casino, it is generally safe for Japanese players to gamble online. Make sure to read reviews and verify the casino’s licensing information before signing up. For more tips on ensuring your safety and security while gambling online, visit our Safety and Security guide.

7. Do I need to pay taxes on my online gambling winnings in Japan?

Japan does not impose taxes on online gambling winnings, as online gambling is not explicitly regulated in the country. However, it’s important to check the tax laws in your specific jurisdiction and consult with a tax professional if you have any concerns or questions about reporting your winnings. For more information on responsible gambling practices, visit our Smart Gambling Practices guide.

8. Are live dealer games available for Japanese players?

Yes, live dealer games are available for Japanese players through offshore online casinos. These games offer a more immersive and interactive gaming experience, simulating the atmosphere of a land-based casino. To learn more about live dealer games and how to play them, visit our Live Dealers page.

9. Can I gamble on my mobile device in Japan?

Yes, many online casinos that cater to Japanese players offer mobile gaming options. You can access these casinos and their games through your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to play on-the-go. For more information on mobile gaming and how to get started, visit our Mobile Gaming guide.

10. What should I do if I'm experiencing problem gambling in Japan?

If you or someone you know is experiencing problem gambling, it’s important to seek help immediately. Japan has resources available, such as helplines and counseling services, to assist individuals in need. For more information on problem gambling and how to address it, visit our Problem Gambling guide.

2023-2024 Online Gambling News & Updates in Japan

Japan’s gambling landscape remains tightly regulated, with traditional forms of gambling like horse racing, bicycle racing (Keirin), powerboat racing, and motorcycle racing being the only legally permitted forms under specific laws. These activities are collectively known as “Public Sports” and are controlled by local governments or government-affiliated entities. The Japanese Penal Code generally prohibits gambling, making it a criminal offense to operate a gambling house or participate in unauthorized betting activities​.

However, recent years have seen a cautious shift towards more open gambling policies. The Integrated Resorts (IR) Implementation Act, set to take effect in July 2024, is a significant step towards legalizing casinos within specific resort areas. This move aims to boost tourism and economic activity, but it also raises concerns about problem gambling and social impacts​ .

Online Gambling

Currently, the only forms of legal online betting in Japan include lottery games, soccer Toto, and betting on public sports. Players seeking broader online casino experiences often turn to offshore operators, which exist in a legal grey area. These sites offer a range of games, including poker, bingo, and slots, that are otherwise unavailable domestically​.

The online gambling market in Japan is projected to grow by approximately 4.92% annually from 2024 to 2028, potentially reaching a market volume of $7.50 billion by 2028. This growth is driven by increasing internet penetration, the popularity of mobile gaming, and evolving consumer preferences​ .

Esports Gambling

Esports betting is emerging as a unique niche within Japan’s gambling ecosystem. It combines elements of traditional sports betting with the competitive world of video gaming. This sector is particularly challenging to regulate due to its digital nature and the blend of skill-based competition and gambling. As esports continue to gain popularity, regulators face the task of defining legal frameworks that ensure fair play and consumer protection​.

Statistics and Market Trends

The popularity of traditional betting activities remains strong. For instance, horse racing saw 196.8 million betting participants in 2022, generating significant revenue. Similarly, the boat racing industry, though less popular than horse racing, experienced a substantial increase in participation, with net sales doubling since 2015 to ¥2.44 trillion in 2022​ .

Lottery games, known as Takarakuji, also remain a staple, with 22.3 million participants in various lottery formats like Mini Loto, Japan Loto 6, and Japan Loto 7. Despite a decline in revenue over the years, the lottery continues to be a major draw, particularly among older demographics. In 2021, lottery sales amounted to ¥813 billion, with approximately ¥376 billion paid out as prize money.

Future Prospects

The future of gambling in Japan hinges on the balance between economic benefits and social responsibility. The IR Implementation Act is a pivotal development, potentially transforming Japan into a significant player in the global casino market. Additionally, the continued growth of online and mobile gaming platforms suggests a robust market poised for expansion.

Stakeholders, including government bodies, gaming companies, and advocacy groups like Japan-101.com, are instrumental in shaping a regulatory environment that promotes safe and responsible gambling while harnessing economic opportunities. As Japan navigates these changes, the focus will likely remain on ensuring that the benefits of gambling do not come at the expense of public welfare​ ​.