When thinking about online betting across the world, Japan may not be the first country that comes to mind. However, online betting is a popular pastime for Japanese residents; whether it’s esports betting or sports betting.
Here at Strafe, we’re all about finding the best online betting sites in Japan, and that’s why this article focuses on finding the top betting sites in Japan, as well as looking at the legal situation regarding online betting and what sports are most popular to bet on.
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Here's who'll benefit from our in-depth guide on betting in Japan
Betting experts
Whether it’s the best sports betting sites in Japan or top online casinos in Japan, we’ve got a load of useful information and tips for more experienced bettors. No matter how experienced you are, there’s always something new to learn, and our team at Strafe enjoys giving expert bettors the best advice to ensure they stay sharp and make the best possible online betting decisions.
Beginners
Being a newbie in the online betting world means that you haven’t developed bad betting habits yet. So, by using our guides, you can start off with a bang. Find out everything you need to know about online betting sites in Japan, including which operators are safe, and how you can discover the best site for you that offers safe and secure online betting options.
First and foremost: Are the top betting sites in Japan legal?
Before you sign up, it’s important to find out whether there are legal online betting sites in Japan, as legal sites are just that much better with security and transparency.
Online betting is legal in Japan, though there are restrictions on local corporations operating online casinos or betting sites.
The Japanese Racing Association and lotteries are the two state-sponsored bodies authorized to operate online betting websites. The Japanese Racing Association offers sports betting with parimutuel wagering, and users must be a member to place bets online or from a mobile phone.
Lottery tickets can be purchased online through the city government's website nearest to the user. The Internal Affairs Ministry authorized online lottery sales in October 2018, allowing all local corporations to sell lottery tickets online, including Nenmatsu Takarakuji tickets, the largest lottery game in Asia.
Japanese citizens don’t need to pay taxes on gambling winnings, because the government automatically takes a portion of every wager, approximately 10-20%, on all legal sports bets.
Overall, online betting is legal in Japan, but local companies face limitations in operating online casinos or betting sites.
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How to spot a quality bookmaker in Japan
Being able to separate the best from the good, or even the better, is a skill our online gambling team has perfected through time, and we're sharing some useful inside info on how to spot the best betting sites in Japan.
1. Site security should be a priority
Before signing up for a betting site in Japan, it is crucial to check out its security measures to protect personal and financial information. Cybersecurity threats, including hacking and identity theft, are prevalent online, and betting sites are no exception.
Look for betting sites that use the latest encryption technology to protect users' information, and sites that offer multifactor authentication to prevent unauthorized access to accounts.
A reputable betting site will also have a transparent privacy policy and terms of service that explain how user data is collected, stored, and shared.
Another factor to consider is a Japanese betting site's licensing and regulation, which indicates that the site operates legally and is subject to oversight by a regulatory authority.
Thus, verifying a betting site's security measures is crucial to protect personal and financial information and ensure a safe and enjoyable sports betting experience in Japan.
2. Explore the sports betting markets on offer
Before signing up at a betting site in Japan, it’s crucial to examine the available betting options on the specific site.
Doing so can help potential users determine if the site offers the sports betting options they are interested in. Before signing up, it’s good to know that sites may have limited betting options, which could be a deal-breaker for players looking for variety or a niche sport.
It’s also important to know that the odds offered by different betting sites can vary, even for the same event, so comparing them can help you find the best value for your wagers.
Another factor to consider is the types of bets available. Are you looking for in-play betting or Acca options? If you want something specific, it’s best to take a look first.
Researching the betting options available at online betting sites in Japan can help users find the right site for their interests and preferences, potentially leading to a more enjoyable and profitable betting experience.
3. Take a good look at the promos
Sportsbook promotions in Japan often offer attractive bonuses like site credit and deposit match offers. These promotions can significantly boost your bankroll with site credits, thus allowing you to place more bets.
The terms and conditions of promos at online betting sites in Japan can provide valuable information about the site's policies and procedures. Think wagering requirements, maximum payouts, and time limits. Understanding these terms can help you choose a feasible promotion that optimizes your online betting experience instead of making it difficult and frustrating.
Promos for both new and existing players can also change frequently, so checking the promotional section regularly will help ensure that you stay up-to-date on the latest deals and opportunities.
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4. How can you pay? Look at the payment options before joining
Ensuring the betting site you’re looking at has the best payment methods is important, as this affects your overall experience. The availability of payment methods, like credit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies, can vary significantly between betting sites.
Players should look for a betting site that offers payment methods that are convenient, secure, and reliable for them. Additionally, it is essential to consider any associated fees or processing times for each payment method. Some payment methods may be subject to additional fees or have longer processing times than others, which could impact your ability to place bets or withdraw winnings.
Verifying the site's withdrawal policy and requirements, such as minimum withdrawal amounts, and any associated verification procedures, is vital to avoid any surprises when you attempt to cash out winnings.
Examining the deposit and withdrawal options before signing up for a betting site in Japan can help users find a site that meets their payment needs, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
5. What if you need help? Check out the customer support options
Checking out your customer support options before signing up can impact the user experience when you have questions or encounter any issues.
The availability of customer support is important, so looking for options that include live chat, email, phone support, and an FAQ section shows the operator’s commitment to showing you a good time on its site.
The quality of customer support at the best sportsbooks Japan is crucial, and players should consider how knowledgeable and helpful the support staff is when dealing with inquiries or issues.
Look for a sportsbook that provides support in your preferred language, as communication can become challenging if the player and the support staff speak different languages. Lastly, examining customer support options can give players peace of mind, knowing that help is readily available in case of any issues or concerns.
Looking for a sportsbook that offers convenient and responsive customer support options can help you in the long run.
The most popular sports for betting in Japan
Like other countries around the world, Japanese citizens also hold certain sports close to their hearts. Here are four different sports that are not only some of the most popular sports but also well-liked for online betting by Japanese residents.
1. Baseball
Originally a US sport, baseball has become one of the most popular sports for online betting in Japan, due to its long-standing history and widespread participation. Since its introduction in 1870, baseball has become the most popular sport in Japan, with all prefectures participating in the national championship, Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).
This popularity has led to millions of views, not only from Japan, but also from neighboring countries. The daily broadcasting of games has garnered an overwhelming response from Japanese sports betting partners.
Japan's success at the world level has contributed to the sport's popularity, with several championship wins. The rich history and widespread participation of baseball in Japan make it a compelling option for online betting.
2. Football
Football, also known as soccer, is one of the most popular sports betting options in Japan, due to its strong national team and the popularity of the domestic league. Japan is among the strongest soccer nations in Asia and the world, having qualified for the FIFA World Cup nearly on every occasion, including hosting it once jointly with South Korea in 2002.
The women's team is equally competitive, having qualified for multiple World Cup finals. Domestically, the Japan Football Association hosts the Japanese League, similar to Major League Soccer in America and the English Football League in England.
The league's matches can be viewed live and are watched by millions of Japanese, making it a popular option for online betting.
3. Sumo wrestling and martial arts
Sumo wrestling is one of the most popular sports for online betting in Japan due to its significance in both Japanese culture and history. While we’ve established that baseball is the most popular team sport in Japan, sumo wrestling is the most popular individual sport and also the country’s national sport.
The game's rules are easy to understand, as the first to exit the ring or touch the ground loses. Six sumo wrestling tournaments are held annually in Japan, each lasting 15 days, with most of these matches witnessing millions of views.
Besides sumo wrestling, there is another form of professional wrestling known as Puroresu, which was initially similar to American pro wrestling but has since evolved into its unique version. Overall, the cultural significance and popularity of sumo wrestling and its simple rules make it a popular option for online betting in Japan.
4. Esports
Due to its large following, it’s no surprise that esports has emerged as one of the most popular betting options in Japan. Despite not being technically considered a sport, the video game industry in Japan has always been enormous, with the introduction of classic games such as Mario Bros and Pro Evolution Soccer credited.
Renowned game developers like Konami, Nintendo, and Sony originated in Japan, contributing not only to the industry's growth but also to the
best esports betting
opportunities. The Japanese Esports Union (JeSU) now regulates and organizes prize-based tournaments, paving the way for Japanese sports betting and bookmakers.
If there is one thing that’s not missing for the best sportsbooks and best esports betting sites in Japan, With other popular sports like martial arts, boxing, handball, motor racing, basketball, tennis, and figure skating, there is a massive market for online sports betting in Japan.
Beginners and experts are welcome to bet on sports at online betting sites in Japan
Japan surprised us, especially since baseball is one of their favorite spots for both playing and betting. This small country has a lot of heart and really enjoys sports, as well as sports betting. While some local companies may not be able to offer online betting, players still have plenty of options to find the quality entertainment they need.
If you’re looking for the best betting sites in Japan, all you need to do is to stick with Strafe.
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❓Where can I find a list of betting sites in Japan?
If you’re looking for the best betting sites in Japan, our team at Strafe has got you covered. In fact, no matter if you’re living in Europe, Africa, Asia, or the Americas, rest assured that you’ll be able to find everything you need to know about online betting sites in your area.
💡 Is sports betting in Japan legal?
Determining if online betting sites in Japan are legal is the first step to enjoying online betting on a safe and secure betting platform. Read our guides to find out more about it.
🎾What is the best online betting sites in Japan?
With all the available options, it’s tough to make a choice about the best sports betting sites in Japan without taking a closer look at each option. Luckily, you don’t have to worry about doing all of that ‘cause our team of online gambling experts makes sure you’re faced with only the top options. Find out more about your online sports betting options in our exclusive sportsbook review sections.
🎮 What is the best esports betting site in Japan?
Esports is also popular in Japan due to its almost-inherent online gaming background, and there are quite a few esports operators to choose from. We give you only the
best esports reviews
with details about available games, bets, and promotions. And, you don’t even have to go far to see these reviews, as all you need to do is click a few times until you’re in our dedicated esports review section
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