Top Online Gambling in Japan – The Best Japanese Gambling Sites for 2024
Gambling Site | Welcome Bonus | Gambling Options | Rating | Secure Link |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. π₯ 888casino | $200 On First Deposit |
4.90 β
out of 5 |
jp.888casino.com | |
2. π₯ 22Bet | Β₯40,000 On First Deposit |
4.85 β
out of 5 |
22bet.com | |
3. π Unibet | $100 On First Deposit |
4.80 β
out of 5 |
unibet.com | |
4. Lvbet | $1000 + 1000 LV Spins |
4.70 β
out of 5 |
lvbet.com | |
5. π Guts | 100β¬ + 100 Free Spins |
4.65 β
out of 5 |
guts.com | |
6. Betsafe | 100β¬ + 100 Free Spins |
4.55 β
out of 5 |
betsafe.com | |
7. π William Hill | $300 On First Deposit |
4.50 β
out of 5 |
williamhill.com |
Our recommended online gambling sites in Japan ranked the highest for a reason. Aside from offering plenty of action in terms of games and lucrative promotions, the venues score top marks in the security department and licensing. It’s of cardinal importance for us that local gamblers feel safe when placing bets for real money, so even the slightest deregulation will raise a huge red flag for us, no matter how appealing the casino might appear.
We scout each website for the seals of approval from one of the leading regulatory bodies. They have a very strict selection process, so a dishonest site simply won’t “slip through the cracks”. As we go through the paragraphs of our complete guide to digital gambling in Japan, you will get to know more about each criterion that makes a venue stand out and be labelled as “the best”.
Top Japanese Online Gambling Sites for December 2024
- 888casino (Recommended Gambling Destination for Japanese Mobile Users)
- 22bet (Highest-Rated Japanese Gambling Venue for Sports Betting Enthusiasts)
- Unibet (Top-Rated Live Dealer Gambling Venue in Japan)
- LVbet (Most Lucrative Online Gambling Welcome Package in Japan)
- Guts (Recommended Japanese Gambling Website for Varied Software Providers)
- Betsafe (Among the Best Slot Online Gambling Sites in Japan)
- WilliamHill (Premier Japanese Gambling Operator for Regular Promotions)
How to Choose the Best Japanese Gambling Site?
When you have set your mind that Japan gambling sites are the route you want to go down on, the time will come for gamblers to choose the right venue for them. This, in itself, is not an easy feat, especially if you want to distinguish the good from the bad ones clearly. Gamblers might get excited about the gaming catalogue or big, flashy bonus amounts.
However, these are merely the tip of the iceberg. If a promotion seems like a no brainer on the surface, its terms and conditions might tell a different story beneath it. Don’t trust everything at first sight, but rather give yourself time to get to know all the details regarding the appealing operator. Here are the main factors you should look for when picking online gambling in Japan is concerned:
- Each gambling website should have a valid license by one of the leading regulatory authorities.
- Check the available gambling products in Japan and align them with your expectations.
- Each operator should offer convenient gambling apps.
- You should make sure that you could benefit from convenient Japanese gambling bonus offers.
- Each gambling site in Japan should accept several secure payment methods for gamblersβ convenience.
A quick Internet search will give you an idea of just how many Japanese online gambling operators exist on the web. We will spare you the research and give you the answer: a lot. The unpleasant news here is that most are unregulated and unsafe for you to trust them with your money. Countless stories exist around the web, where gamblers complain of thieving gaming businesses.
Our mission and sole purpose are to deliver the most trustworthy digital venues to our Japanese readers. The top Japanese online gambling websites featured in this guide have already been thoroughly examined, and the verdict is that they are among the safest and most secure operators catering for the Japanese audience. When you combine this factor with their diverse catalogues and juicy promotions, it’s a foregone conclusion that your future casino home is somewhere on this page.
Japan Gambling Sites – Licence and Security
Japan is an extremely conservative country and one that has traditions deeply rooted in the mentality of its population. As such, it has been following strict laws that would restrain locals from engaging in any sort of gambling activity, which has been prohibited by the Criminal Code chapter 23 and that includes betting in most of its form, including online gambling.
After much negotiations, the Casino Administration Committee has been recently established to oversee and manage the first-ever three licences released for casino companies to bid for. The bill states that casinos can now operate in the country only as part of integrated resorts planned to be built in Osaka, Yokohama, and Tokyo. We have yet to see what will happen with the online sector, which is illegal in Japan.
Luckily, local gambling enthusiasts can freely set up casino accounts at offshore operators that have opened their doors for Japanese nationals. They obey a different set of guidelines and regulatory rules. So, when you do come to the realisation that online gambling in Japan is what lies ahead of you, here are all gambling licence and security agencies that you should keep an open eye for:
- MGA
- IBAS
- GBGA
- EGBA
- eCogra
- GambleAware
- Gambling Therapy
Aside from being regulated, each of the online gambling sites in Japan must have invested enough into the website’s security. We are talking about the latest SSL certificates and encryption technologies. These defences create a stable firewall around the private information of the gamblers and block potential hacks and data leakage from servers of the operator.
Moreover, every operator who conducts business in gambling in Japan should promote its responsible nature and work in close cooperation with organisations that offer help to Japanese casino players in need. Must such entities offer telephone hotlines and live chat support around the clock. If you feel like gambling is starting to take a toll on your life, you are more than encouraged to reach out and seek the support you need.
What Gambling Products Can Japanese Choose From?
The Japanese online gambling sites are fun to discover and browse through. Mostly because they are so diverse, and each digital venue could feature specific gambling products unavailable anywhere else. The most common presence throughout are the online casino games, as you might have figured already, and that is not surprising at all.
The majority of the casino players that sign up for gambling in Japan love to place bets on various fruit machines and table games. Examples include games at the best blackjack sites Japan has to offer, as well as poker tournaments, roulette and baccarat tabes. Still, more fun is to be had here and there. The best piece of news comes in the form of the fact that you will be able to enjoy a wide range of unique games with a single account on the platform. Here are the top Japanese online gambling products:
And when you do come across a category you enjoy β let’s say slots β you will notice how different they are in terms of gameplay, bonus rounds, expected rewards, and overall design. The best slot sites in Japan are developed by software providers that manage to make their product portfolio stand out and be easily recognised by local gamblers.
The same thing applies to the various table games, game shows, and other gambling products you will stumble upon on your journey. Make sure to check the “Promotions” tab regularly because some casino games or individual titles might come with exclusively tailored separate bonuses for them. Gambling in Japan can be fun. Just know where to look. For more information, keep reading down the page.
Top Gambling Sites with Casino Games in Japan
Casino games are the most famous gambling product, hands down. They are fun, adrenaline-fueled, and can reap Japanese gamblers great rewards with a bit of luck. Some titles could even net you jackpots worth millions, although you would really need a steady rub on your shoulders from the lucky gods. Above all, they are simple and easy to learn.
These factors make them a popular choice. When you throw in the aggressive marketing efforts by the operators to promote their content, you get a recipe for success. Slots and table games take centre stage in movies and popular culture, and most bonuses are strictly associated with the casino aspect of Japan gambling sites. Plus, you will get to play them at virtually every casino. Let’s review the best online gambling sites in Japan that offer casino games together:
Japan Online Casino: | Sign Up Offer: | Gambling Products: | Rating: | Secure Link: |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. 888casino | $200 On First Deposit |
|
4.95 β
out of 5
|
888casino.com |
2. Unibet | 100β¬ On First Deposit |
|
4.90 β
out of 5
|
unibet.com |
3. 22bet | Β₯40,000 On First Deposit |
|
4.90 β
out of 5
|
22bet.com |
4. Guts | 100β¬ + 100 Free Spins |
|
4.75 β
out of 5
|
guts.com |
Out of the whole bunch of top-tier operators we have chosen for the purposes of the guide, the ones we have highlighted in the table above are the most recommendable ones for true fans of casino gambling in Japan. They are licensed, trustworthy, and some are even ranked among theβ―best online casinos in Japan for 2024.
As the regular promotional campaigns have become a custom at the gaming sites, Japanese players should expect to be greeted with attractive sign-up offers and ongoing bonuses. Do ensure that they are realistic enough and your gambling strategy and playing habits can meet their requirements.
Sports Betting β Top Betting Sites in Japan
Our coverage of online gambling in Japan will not be complete without the inclusion of one of the most exciting products that draw thousands of players. Sports betting is the premier gambling product for fans of sporting activities. If you have extensive knowledge about the statistics and history of a specific team, horse, or tournament and are ready to earn good money in exchange for your life-long dedication and love for it, that is the place to do it.
Several fantastic Japanese online gambling sites have accommodated full-blown sports betting platforms with hundreds of games and activities, where you can go wild with your betting schemes and expertise. They even offer tailored bonuses for first-timers, which can really kick things off for our Japanese readers fond of sports. Let’s check out the best sports betting sites in Japan for 2024:
Japan Sports Betting Site | Betting Bonus | Official Partner | Other Sports | Rating | Secure Link |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. 22bet | Β₯16,000 Sport Bonus | N/A |
|
4.95 β
out of 5
|
22bet.com |
2. Unibet | $30 Refer a Friend Bonus | Unibet Darts Premier League |
|
4.85 β
out of 5
|
unibet.com |
3. Betsafe | 25β¬ +10β¬ Free bet | N/A |
|
4.75 β
out of 5
|
betsafe.com |
It’s worth pointing out that just because a Japanese online gambling site offers sports betting, it doesn’t necessarily mean that tailored bonuses will be part of the deal. Some bookies offer them, while others focus their efforts at offering promotions for regular players. Still, the top sports betting sites in Japan ensure that fans aren’t neglected, and there is something for them, as well.
Otherwise, bet on football, baseball, tennis, swimming, hockey, your favourite horse, perhaps, you name it. The platforms’ diversity will impress you, as will the intuitiveness and easy-to-use menus. All you need is your knowledge and confidence that the team you are planning on betting your Yen with will come out on top.
Top Gambling Sites with Live Casino Games
Live dealer gaming is for gamblers that appreciate the authentic feel of the brick-and-mortar casino. Given that up until recently, actual venues were not allowed to operate, we can imagine that quite a number of Japanese players have not experienced such a feeling and are eager to try it out. Not all online gambling sites in Japan boast one, but those that do will impress you on multiple levels.
Placing bets on live dealer lobbies does carry its own advantages over the RNG play. For once, you will be digitally present on a real table, hosted by an actual dealer, who will make all participants feel as if they are on a real table. Also, you get to do it from the comfort of your home or any other location because the streams are designed to be universally accessed. You can review the best online Japan gambling sites with live casino games in the table below.
Japan Live Casino | Welcome Bonus | All Live Games | Live Roulette | Live Blackjack | Site Rating: | Secure Link: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. 888casino | $200 On First Deposit |
4.90 β
out of 5
|
888casino.com | |||
3. 22bet | Β₯40,000 On First Deposit |
4.85 β
out of 5
|
22bet.com |
None of the remarkable aspects of the live dealer casino would even exist if it weren’t for the brilliant software developers who managed to pull it off so nicely. Responsible names include Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and NetEnt, among others. Thanks to their efforts, you will even be able to place bets on dozens of games around the clock, regardless of your time zone. They feature a rotating staff that ensures the tables can meet the demand non-stop.
As we previously mentioned, all games are mobile-friendly, which makes the best live casino sites in Japan even more exciting. As long as you have stable Internet connectivity, the process will run smoothly and with no sudden interruptions. All that is required from your side is the basic knowledge of how the actual games are played. Leave the rest to fate, luck, and the deck of cards. Really, gambling in Japan does not get better than this.
Top Japanese Poker Sites β Find the Best Online Poker Games
Poker is a totally different beast of a card game that doesn’t rely solely on luck but requires extensive skill, as well. It’s a beloved gambling product, and people flock to all parts of the world to participate in exclusive tournaments and win massive jackpots. Generally speaking, most Japanese online gambling sites will offer at least some of the more conventional and popular poker game variations, while a specific few will boast considerably more.
As stated, you would require skills to beat your opponents. As a matter of fact, it is the table game that requires gamblers to have had the most extensive preparation and experience prior to joining in. Never go in with zero experience because even luck won’t save you if you have no idea what you are doing. With that in mind, gambling in Japan could be really fun if you’ve got what it takes. Now, let’s see which are the top online gambling sites that offer online poker games for real money:
Japan Online Poker Sites: | Welcome Bonus: | Poker Games: | Rating: | Secure Link: |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. Guts | 1000β¬ Welcome Bonus |
|
4.95 β
out of 5
|
guts.com |
2. Unibet | 200β¬ On Welcome Package |
|
4.90 β
out of 5
|
unibet.com |
3. 888poker | $400 On First Deposit |
|
4.85 β
out of 5
|
888poker.com |
4. Betsafe | 2000β¬ On First Deposit |
|
4.75 β
out of 5
|
betsafe.com |
As with all types of online gambling, online poker is legal in Japan, provided you play at an offshore site. Rest assured that our recommended poker sites that accept players from Japan are safe and legit. New players can claim a poker bonus upon joining. You will also find various special promotional offers available for existing players at our featured sites.
While there is no denying that skill plays a big part in your chances of winning cash at the best poker sites in Japan, the rules are simple enough for beginners to enjoy playing the game.
Japanese Lottery Sites β Top Online Lotto Games
The online lottery gambling product is a fantastic way to relax after a sweat-inducing poker game. It requires no skill whatsoever. All you need to do is buy a ticket, have several numbers prepared, and then wait for the outcome. Also, governments around the world tend to be much softer when it comes to lotto, as opposed to other gambling alternatives, which is why it is available in most countries.
The good news is that you don’t have to go to an actual kiosk and hunt down for tickets but can do it from a legitimate and authorised online casino retailer. Seldomly will you find a lotto site that offers exclusive bonuses for free tickets, but we are certain that this won’t stop you from enjoying this particular sector of online gambling in Japan. As long as you are 20 or older, nothing stops you, aside from common sense should it need to. Here are the best Japanese lottery sites for 2024:
Japan Lottery Site: | Lotto Bonus: | Lottery Highlights: | Rating: | Secure Link: |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. The Lotter | Β₯200β―Million |
|
4.90 β
out of 5
|
thelotter.com |
2. Lottoland | $2 Million |
|
4.80 β
out of 5
|
lottoland.com |
Among the most popular lotto games for fans of gambling in Japan are the Loto 6 Japan and MegaMillions, both of which have astronomical jackpots. Buying a ticket for them from a legitimate online vendor is more accessible than ever, especially considering that more than 75% of the entire population own a smartphone.
The Best Gambling Apps in Japan β Play on Your Mobile
Now, thinking about that 75% smartphone ownership, imagine how imperative it is for businesses to be mobile-friendly. We all perceive the Land of the Rising Sun as one of the most advanced countries in terms of technological development and advancement, and that is a fact. Online gambling in Japan is one of the extremely well-optimised sectors to fit any screen on any device.
We can honestly say that the top mobile-friendly gambling sites in Japan deliver the goods and are as immersive as casino players would expect them to be. We have picked the highest-rated ones and have included them in the following table, where you will also get to check out all relevant specifications, should you want to know more about them, too.
Japan Gambling Apps: | Mobile Gambling Bonus: | Mobile Gambling Products: | Downloadable App: | Suitable iOS Devices: | Suitable Android Devices: | Secure Link: |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
888casino | 100% up to $200 on First Deposit | Casino, Live Games | Yes, 20 MB | iOS 10 or Later | Android 11 | Play Here! |
22bet | 100% up to Β₯40,000 on First Deposit | Sports, Live, Casino | Yes, 33 MB | iOS 14 | Android 11 | Play Here! |
Unibet | 100% up to 100β¬ on First Deposit | Sports, Casino, Poker | Yes, 8 MB | iOS 11.0 or Later | Android 11 | Play Here! |
There is nothing better than the sweet feeling of being able to do something location-independent and with no time restrictions. The mobile aspect of gambling in Japan allows you to do just that, which is its biggest advantage. Some of the operators even walk the extra mile by creating native apps for download. Wouldn’t that be amazing news for your iPhone?
If you are not an app fan or have no extra storage, fear not because the only difference between this and browser access is the extra few taps you will perform on screen. If you fear there might be some gameplay disadvantages to betting on a smartphone compared to desktop play, let us assure you that you are way off. The software developers have ensured to create games and platforms that will look equally stunning and absorbing on all devices.
The Best Japanese Gambling Bonus Offers for 2024
Juicy welcome offers and ongoing promotions have always been an integral part of casino operations in the world of Japanese online gambling. They provide us with boosted chances to hopefully score a coveted win or jackpot on a favourite game of ours. The various offers come in all shapes and sizes, and all of them are focused on particular gamblers’ target groups or all players altogether.
Some of them target newbies and potential customers that are looking for a new gambling home. They might require you to make a deposit or could provide you with free funds or spins without even infusing cash into your casino account. Others focus on existing gamblers or such that prefer a particular section of the online gambling sites in Japan. Here are the best casino bonuses for local gamblers:
Japan Gambling Bonus Type | Best Bonus at | Top Offer | Min. Deposit | Validity | Wagering | Secure Link |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Casino | 888casino | $200 | $20 | 90 Days | 30x Bonus | Get Bonus! |
Sports | 22bet | Β₯16,000 | Β₯100 | 7 days | 5x Bonus | Get Bonus! |
Live Dealer | Betway | Lucky Numbers | No Deposit | Monday-Thursday | 30x Bonus | Get Bonus! |
Poker | Guts | $1000 | $10 | 60 days | N/A | Get Bonus! |
Lotto | The Lotter | Play for the Biggest Jackpots | N/A | N/A | N/A | Get Bonus! |
Casino bonuses make our eyes sparkle, no doubt about it, but we should never jump headfirst at any promotional opportunity you see while browsing the Japanese online gambling sites. Always consider the terms and conditions because they hide important information that will determine if the offer is worth the investment and time.
Highlights are wagering and offer timeframe. The wagering requirements point out the number of times players need to play through the amount in question while gambling in Japan. Also, consider the validity. If you need to wager an amount dozens of times within just several days, this will imply that you need to significantly bet in order to meet deadlines. It could be against your gambling strategy, and perhaps the bonus would not be worth it in the end. So, don’t forget to pay attention where needed.
Available Payment Methods β Deposits and Withdrawals
You may not realise it, but payment method flexibility is a top priority for countless casino players that seek the excitement of the Japan gambling sites. Each of our recommended operators boasts plenty of options to leave you satisfied with the selection. With a few exceptions, such as prepaid cards, gamblers will be able to deposit and withdraw to the same payment method with a few simple clicks or taps on your screen.
Debit cards, e-wallets, instant banking, you name it. You can also consider checking out the top JCB casino sites in Japan through our article. The “Cashier “section at each of the online gambling sites in Japan will give you a complete overview of all accepted methods. It’s important to pay attention to the deposit limits as they are incremental for the experience of both high-and-low rollers. Some sites even provide the opportunity to adjust them personally, which is a nice touch. Here are the most popular payment methods in the Japan gambling websites.
Once you deposit, the imminent process of withdrawing will come upon you. Be aware that most sites have internal verification checks for each withdrawal request that might take up to two business days. Itβs an important part of the safe online gambling in Japan and there is no bypassing it. Once the checks are done, the processing time is as per the method’s policies.
E-wallets tend to get a lot of love lately due to their security and transaction speed, so this is a recommended choice for gamblers who don’t know what to use when gambling in Japan.
Is Online Gambling Legal in Japan
Earlier in our online gambling in Japan review, we mentioned that the nation is very conservative in more than one aspects. Unfortunately, online gambling β especially at casino sites β is illegal under the Criminal Code chapter 23. It forbids other gambling forms and products, too, as there isn’t much you can place bets on if you are eager to loosen the purse strings.
The only legal forms of gambling in Japan extend to horse racing, public sports, the lottery, toto, and Pachinko. Even land-based casino operations were considered illegal up until recently. Now that there was a positive movement, Japan has yet to build its first legal integrated resorts with built-in casinos. Otherwise, the games mentioned above are the only games that local players can play legally.
There are rumours that Yakuza runs an underground chain of illegal casinos, but that is definitely not something that we would recommend you to get yourself into. Otherwise, the newly established Casino Administration Committee has been created with the idea to supervise Japan’s very first so-called integrated resorts, but they have yet to make the first dig or find interested parties that will plan and build on the designated terrains in Osaka, Yokohama, and Tokyo.
That is definitely a good sign for the industry, albeit its late arrival. Still, it leaves gamblers hopeful that the government might make further amendments to the Criminal Code and allow for legal online gambling at locally established sites. We closely monitor the development around the resorts and other potential adjustments that will make Japanese online gambling legal within borders.
Legal Gambling Age
No one under 20 years of age is allowed to engage in any form of gambling in Japan, online and offline. Everything that is locally-based will deny access immediately, and you could be fined or even face jail time. If you are to place bets at offshore operators, the age restrictions might vary because they abide by different jurisdictions and casino standards. Make sure you check with each site individually.
Minimum Gambling Age in Japan | |
---|---|
Gambling Product | Legal Age |
Casino | 20 |
Sports Betting | 20 |
Lottery | 20 |
Poker | 20 |
Daily Fantasy | 20 |
If you are thinking of cheating and bypassing the system verifications, think again. Online gambling sites in Japan would not simply allow players to open casino accounts and start using them immediately. There are steps to follow, and one of them includes the upload or scan of an authentic document of the gambler. This could be anything from a personal ID to a driver’s licence or a passport. Check your venue for more details but make sure not to break the rules.
Every single online casino is very strict when it comes to the verification of player’s ID and in case they have any doubts that someone tried to cheat, they can require additional documents, bank statements and more in order to let the person deposit money and play.
Same is valid if a withdrawal is requested. You might be asked once again for a scanned copy of your driving license or any other paper that certifies your ID. Keep that in mind and make sure you follow all the rules of the online casino.
Are Gambling Winnings Taxable?
According to the Liberal Democratic Party, once the much-anticipated integrated resorts finally open their doors in the next years, foreign visitors’ winnings won’t be subject to any tax, as opposed to local residents. Otherwise, winnings from public gambling are taxable in Japan as per local laws. Local players pay 5% of taxable income to amounts below JPY1.95 million and 10% from JPY1.95 million to JPY3.3 million for all occasional and miscellaneous income. The maximum reaches 45% for JPY40 million and more.
Conclusion: Pick the Best Legal Site for Online Gambling in Japan
After a great deal of research and various evaluation checks, we can proudly say that there are no better venues than the best legal Japanese gambling online sites featured in this guide. Factors need considering, and they are not a few, but with a bit of time on your hands and an eye for detail, you can distinguish the rotten egg in the basket. Here is our top recommended Japanese online gambling site for local players:
- Fantastic Gaming Library
- Thrilling Live Casino
- Dependable Customer Support
Remember how important it is to play at safe venues while browsing the online gambling sites in Japan. None of the top Japanese online casinos for 2024 would even make the cut if they weren’t confirmed to be verified, licensed, and trustworthy. Make sure that your top pick is an operator advocating for responsible gambling and never sway from contacting an organisation or a person in need of assistance and support, should you need to.
Popular Questions
As is tradition, we have included a concise section containing the most commonly searched questions that local players have when thinking about online gambling in Japan. It could serve as a nice general overview of the topic and all its main points and takeaways.
Our Top Recommended Guides for Japanese Players
We have crossed the finish line on our extensive and complete guide to online gambling in Japan. We hope that you have managed to find inspiration and guidance as to where to head next now that you have a better grasp of what the gaming environment in the Land of the Rising Sun looks like. In case you want to know more, why stop now? Check out some of our other articles dedicated to other Japanese gambling products, highlighted in the table below.
- Oct 17, 2024 UK Tax Rules on Winnings from Unlicensed Casinos
- Sep 13, 2024 Best Low Stakes Casino Destinations
- Sep 12, 2024 Skrill and PayPal for Online Gambling
- Aug 29, 2024 Apple Pay and PayPal for Online Gambling