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Online Poker Japan — Best Online Poker Sites in Japan & Poker Laws (2024)

BetOnline Poker

Bonus Offer: 100% up to $1000
Available Countries
Accepts US players
More Info
Available Games
  • Poker
  • Blackjack
  • Roulette
  • Live Dealer
  • Baccarat
Payment Methods
Features
  • Great gaming library
  • Numerous tournaments
  • Hefty welcome bonus
  • Additional bonuses for crypto users
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Japan

In spite of being a very modern country, as modern, as they come, this modernity does not extend very much to Japan’s gambling laws, which are still relatively strict and conservative by today’s standards.

Most forms of gambling are illegal under Japan’s Penal Code. Certain forms are allowed, for instance, playing the game of Pachinko, a combination of slots and pinball, which has enough of a history in Japanese culture to afford it an exemption under criminal law.

Pachinko is wildly popular in Japan, and there are over 12,000 ‘Pachinko parlors’ in the country, taking in almost $400 billion dollars a year. While the payouts aren’t in cash and involve tokens that can be exchanged for prizes, players generally sell the tokens for cash at a neighboring location, generally under the same ownership as the Pachinko parlor, and they get around the law that way. The practice is seen as entirely acceptable by the authorities.

Is Online Poker Legal in Japan?

Online poker is a game of skill that is enjoyed by players all over the world. In recent years, the popularity of online poker has exploded, thanks in part to the rise of online gambling. Online poker is now legal in many countries, including the United States and most of Europe. However, the situation is different in Japan. Online poker is not currently legal in Japan, although there are plans to change this in the near future.

The Japanese government has been working on a bill that would legalize and regulate online gambling, and it is expected to come up for a vote in parliament later this year. If the bill passes, it would pave the way for online poker to become legal in Japan. In the meantime, Japanese players can still enjoy online poker by using foreign-based websites.

Best Online Poker Sites in Japan for 2024

Online poker is a popular game played by people all over the world. And while there are many reputable online poker sites available to players in most countries, finding a good site can be tricky in some places – like Japan.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best online poker sites in Japan for 2024. Whether you’re looking for a site with a wide variety of games, great bonuses, or one that accepts Japanese players, we’ve got you covered. So check out our list and find the perfect online poker site for you!

BetOnline Poker

Bonus Offer: 100% up to $1000
Available Countries
Accepts US players
More Info
Available Games
  • Poker
  • Blackjack
  • Roulette
  • Live Dealer
  • Baccarat
Payment Methods
Features
  • Great gaming library
  • Numerous tournaments
  • Hefty welcome bonus
  • Additional bonuses for crypto users

Ignition Poker

Bonus Offer: 150% up to $1500
Available Countries
Accepts US players
More Info
Available Games
  • Poker
  • Blackjack
  • Roulette
  • Live Dealer
  • Baccarat
Payment Methods
Features
  • A lucrative welcome bonus
  • Plenty of regular promotions
  • A great VIP scheme
  • Accepts cryptocurrencies

Everygame Poker

Bonus Offer: 200% up to $1000
Available Countries
Accepts US players
More Info
Available Games
  • Poker
  • Blackjack
  • Roulette
  • Live Dealer
  • Baccarat
Payment Methods
Features
  • Host of cash games and tournaments
  • Great welcome bonus
  • Game variety
  • Good loyalty program
8 reviews found based on your search. Clear all filters

How to Play Online Poker in Japan?

For anyone looking to play online poker in Japan, there are a few things to keep in mind.

  1. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the website you are playing on is legal and licensed. There are many illegal gambling sites operating in Japan, so this is an important step to take.
  2. Secondly, you will need to create an account and deposit money into it. The easiest way to do this is by using a Japanese credit card or e-wallet. Once you have done this, you will be able to access the games and start playing.
  3. Finally, it is worth remembering that online poker is not currently regulated in Japan. This means that there is no guarantee of fairness or safety when playing on these sites. As such, it is important to exercise caution and only play on trusted websites.

With these tips in mind, anyone should be able to enjoy playing online poker in Japan.

How to Choose the Best Online Japan Poker Site

Online Japan Poker Sites are a dime a dozen. Some are good, some are great, and others are not so much. So how do you know which Online Japan Poker Site to choose? Here are five things to look for when choosing an Online Japan Poker Site:

Most Trusted and Licensed

SafetyThere are a lot of online poker sites out there, but not all of them are created equal. When looking for the best online poker experience, you want to make sure you choose a safe, secure, and licensed site.

Safe and Secure

Online SecurityOnline poker is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic game from the comfort of your own home. However, choosing a safe and secure online poker site is essential to have the best experience. In Japan, a few online poker sites stand out as the top options.

These sites offer a variety of games and features, and they’re all incredibly safe and secure.

Fair Terms and Conditions

Terms and ConditionsWhen it comes to online poker, Japan residents have a few different options available to them. Several online poker sites are currently operating in the state, and each one offers its unique set of terms and conditions.

As a result, players need to take the time to read the fine print before signing up for an account. Otherwise, they may be disadvantaged when playing against other players.

Promo and Bonuses

Poker BonusesPoker is one of the most popular games in the world, and online poker sites are always looking for ways to attract new players. One of the most common ways to do this is by offering promotional bonuses. These can take many forms, but they all essentially give players extra value for their money.

Top-notch Customer Support

Customer SupportWhen it comes to online poker in Japan, customer support is essential. After all, with so many different online poker sites in Japan, it can be challenging to keep track of them all.

That’s why it’s essential to find a top online poker site that offers excellent customer support.

The best online poker sites will have a team of knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives who are always available to answer any questions you may have. They should also be able to provide you with helpful information about the latest promotions and bonuses.

You’ll be sure to get the most out of your online poker experience by taking advantage of top-notch customer support.


History of Online Poker in Japan

Online poker has a long and complicated history in Japan. The game was first introduced to the country in the early 2000s, when foreign websites began offering real-money games to Japanese players. At the time, there was no legal framework for regulating online gambling, and the Japanese government took no action against these websites.

However, in 2006, the Diet passed a law that made it illegal for Japanese companies to offer gambling services to residents of the country. This effectively put an end to online poker in Japan. For the next decade, there were no legal options for playing the game online. In 2016, things changed when the government passed a law legalizing certain types of online gambling, including poker.

While this law did not directly address online poker, it created a legal framework that could be used to regulate the game. Since then, several companies have obtained licenses to offer online poker services in Japan. As a result, Japanese players now have access to a wide range of legal poker websites.

Japan Poker and Gambling Laws

Japan has a long and rich history of gambling, with various forms of activity dating back centuries. However, the country only began to regulate gambling in the late 19th century. Since then, the Japanese government has put a number of laws and regulations in place in an effort to control gambling.

For example, all forms of gambling are illegal in Japan unless specifically authorized by law. as a result, Japan does not have any legal casinos. However, there are some legal horse and dog racing tracks, as well as a few lottery outlets. Japan also allows for certain forms of online gambling, including sports betting and spaces. Poker is another popular form of gambling in Japan, though it is not currently regulated by the government.

As a result, there is no legal way to play poker in Japan. However, many people still enjoy playing the game informally, either at home or in underground clubs. With its long history and diverse range of activities, gambling is an important part of Japanese culture.

The Future of Gambling in Japan

Gambling has been a popular pastime in Japan for centuries, with a history that dates back to the Edo period. Today, gambling is still a significant part of Japanese culture, and there are many different types of gambling activities that take place in the country. However, the future of gambling in Japan is uncertain.

The legal landscape surrounding gambling is complex and ever-changing, and the government has cracked down on some forms of gambling in recent years. As a result, it is unclear what the future holds for gambling in Japan. Nevertheless, Gambling continues to be popular among the Japanese people, and it is likely that it will remain an important part of Japanese culture for many years to come.

FAQ

What is the Legal Age to Play Online Poker in Japan? The legal age to gamble online in Japan is 20.
Is it Safe to Play Online Poker in Japan? Yes, it is safe to play online poker in Japan. The Japanese government has no restrictions on online gambling, and there are no laws prohibiting players from accessing international poker sites. However, we recommend that players use only licensed and regulated sites to avoid any legal issues.
What Are the Deposit and Withdrawal Options for Japanese Players? Japanese players can deposit and withdraw money from their online poker accounts using a variety of methods, including credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
What is the Tax Situation for Online Poker Winnings in Japan? Gambling winnings in Japan are not subject to taxation. However, players should check with their local government to see if any taxes apply to their specific situation.

About the Author

Sadonna Price
Author Sadonna is a mom of two and an avid poker player who also enjoys online casino games. She has been part of the online gambling industry for over a decade, working as a news and blog writer. Sadonna still plays Texas hold’em in her free time while her daily job revolves around providing insights into the online gambling world using her creativity and writing skills.
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