|
|
In Japan, the legal status of casinos is complex and strictly regulated. While most forms of gambling are prohibited under the Penal Code, there are specific exceptions for certain activities.
Public sports like horse racing, bicycle racing, and motorboat racing are legally permitted forms of gambling in Japan. Pachinko, a popular pinball-style game, operates in a legal gray area where players win tokens that can be exchanged for prizes.
However, traditional casino games such as blackjack, roulette, and slot machines were historically illegal in Japan. This changed with the passage of the Integrated Resort (IR) Implementation Act in 2018, which legalized casino resorts under strict conditions.
The new law allows for the establishment of integrated resorts that include casinos along with hotels, conference facilities, and entertainment venues. These resorts are subject to rigorous licensing requirements and oversight by the government.
Currently, Japan is in the process of selecting locations for these integrated resorts, with several prefectures and cities competing for the limited licenses available. The government aims to boost tourism and economic development through these facilities while implementing measures to address problem gambling. |
|