Poker is strictly prohibited in Japan under the country's Criminal Code, with very limited exceptions for licensed casino facilities. For many years, all gaming activities operated by the private sector in either digital or land-based form were prohibited as criminal offenses under the Penal Code. However, the Integrated Resort Promotion Law and Implementation Law enacted in 2016 and 2018 legalized gaming activities for licensed casino operators within designated IR areas, though online gaming remains completely prohibited if conducted within Japan (1).
The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission regulates casino gaming, including poker, within licensed Integrated Resort facilities. Poker is currently listed among the permissible gaming types that include baccarat, twenty-one, roulette, and other approved casino games within licensed establishments. Casino business licenses may only be granted to IR operators who operate complex facilities including convention centers, recreational facilities, and accommodation along with casinos, meaning stand-alone casino operators do not qualify for licensing (1).
"IR operators may run casino business if they are granted a license by JCRC. With the license, Article 185 and Article 186 of the Penal Code do not apply to gaming of specified types under specified methods in the casino gaming operation areas."
Japan maintains extremely restrictive gambling policies with a maximum of three certified IR areas permitted nationwide. Japanese nationals are limited to three casino entries per week and ten entries per 28 days to prevent problem gambling, and must pay admission fees totaling 6,000 yen per entry. The Commission sets forth specific types and methods of permissible gaming that are socially acceptable, ensuring public trust in casino operations while taking into consideration international gaming standards (2).
Source:
https://iclg.com/practice-areas/gambling-laws-and-regulations/japan
https://www.jcrc.go.jp/en/policy/regulatory/casino.html
Last updated: 04-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
