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Japan

Strictly Restricted
2026-01

Japan strictly prohibits most forms of gambling (Penal Code Articles 185-187), allowing only public sports betting (horse racing, boat racing, keirin, auto racing) and lotteries. The 2018 IR Act permits integrated resort casinos, but online gambling remains illegal.

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Key Takeaways

1

Japan strictly prohibits most gambling, online gambling is illegal

2

Only government-run sports betting and lotteries are allowed

3

Crypto exchanges are strictly regulated by FSA

4

Individual players using offshore platforms are rarely prosecuted

Five Policy Dimensions

Most gambling is illegal under the Penal Code. Exceptions: government-run sports betting (horse/boat/keirin/auto racing), lotteries (takarakuji), and toto (football pools). Online gambling is not explicitly legalized. Offshore platforms are technically illegal to use.

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