Sports betting in Japan is generally prohibited under the Criminal Code (Act No. 45 of 1907), Chapter 23, which criminalizes “simple gambling.” Any form of betting outside those expressly authorized by special laws is punishable by fines or imprisonment (1).
However, Japan permits pari-mutuel wagering on select public sports—horse racing, bicycle racing, motorboat racing and asphalt speedway motorcycle racing—as well as football pools (“toto”) under separate statutes like the Horse Racing Act and the Act on Carrying Out, etc. Sports Promotion Vote (Act No. 63 of 1998) (2).
"Article 185 of the Japanese Penal Code provides that a person who gambles shall be punished by a fine or a petty fine of not more than JPY 500,000, unless the item placed on bet is 'something provided for momentary amusement'" (2).
Beyond these limited exceptions, all other forms of sports betting—including online sportsbooks—remain illegal in Japan. Attempts to operate or advertise unauthorized betting facilities may result in criminal charges, and the government continues to enforce strict penalties to deter illicit gambling.
Source:
https://www.cas.go.jp/jp/seisaku/hourei/data/PC.pdf
https://www.mondaq.com/sport/1390148/gambling-law
Last updated: 28-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
