Japan’s top online gaming companies have always played a big role in bringing the world of online gaming to countries and cultures all over the world. The influence of companies like Nintendo and Sega is very apparent in the lives of hundreds of millions of people. What is truly ironic is that while the Japanese are very prominent in the entertainment gaming market, they have not yet embraced the world of adult online gaming.
Any conversation on the legalities of playing games of chance for real cash in Japan has to start with the recognition of Japan being one of the most important supporters of international horse racing. Literally millions of Japanese people visit racetracks every year to witness some of the best horse racing and horses in the world. It no small thing that Japanese bettors can also wager on certain sports events. What the people in Japan cannot do is legally play online games of chance like Baccarat (Punto Banco), Blackjack, and Roulette for real cash.
It is worth noting that Japan’s government has long opposed adult gaming unless it relates to games of skill. That is why poker, horse racing, and sports betting activities are largely supported by the government. It is a culture wrapped in conservative traditions that is opposed to its people tossing away their money in pursuit of easy income. Just the same, adults are going to do what adults want to do when big brother is not looking.
Will the Japanese Government Move Towards Supporting Adult Online Gaming in the Future?
For now, it does not look like Japan’s leaders are ready to open the door to adult land based or online betting for its residents any time soon. It is noteworthy that the country’s political parties are ready and willing to support legalized オンラインカジノ, but high level government and spiritual leaders are not ready to loosen the reigns.
Of course, there isn’t anything stopping Japanese gamblers from seeking out online adult gaming services when the urge hits. While such activities are not supported by law, there really has not been any effort on the part of Japanese law enforcement to enforce current statutes. That leaves to door open for Japanese residents to use adult online betting sites in other parts of the world.
The most popular websites among the Japanese people are located in the UK. What the people of Japan need to know upfront is they are not afforded the same protections from fraudulent operators as what is being provided for UK residents. The only way Japanese bettors can protect themselves is by making sure they confine their betting activities to websites regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, the Government of Gibraltar, or the Malta Gaming Authority.
For the people of Japan who really want to see the legalization of online betting across the board, it’s a process. The adult gaming industry has already made headway in other Asian and European countries that are finally coming around. For now, it is a waiting game.