When it comes to gambling, Japan is known for its love of pachinko, a game that resembles a pinball machine. But what about poker
Is this popular card game played and enjoyed in Japan In this article, we will explore the current state of poker in Japan and its popularity among the locals.
History of Poker in Japan
Poker has been present in Japan since the early 20th century, but it was not until the 1980s that it gained widespread popularity. At that time, poker was mostly played by foreigners living in Japan, and it was only available at underground clubs and illegal gambling establishments.
In 1995, the Japanese government passed a law that allowed certain forms of gambling, such as horse racing and lottery. However, poker was not included in this list, which meant that playing or organizing poker games was still illegal.
The Rise of Online Poker
Despite its legal status, poker continued to grow in popularity among Japanese players. This was largely due to the rise of online poker sites, which allowed players to access a wide range of games from their computers or mobile devices.
Online poker provided a safe and convenient way for Japanese players to enjoy their favorite game without having to worry about being caught by authorities. It also allowed them to compete with players from all over the world and improve their skills through practice and study.
Poker Tournaments in Japan
In recent years, there has been an increase in live poker tournaments held in Japan. These events are usually organized by international companies such as Asian Poker Tour (APT) or World Series of Poker (WSOP) and attract both local and foreign players.
- APT Tokyo: This tournament is held annually in Tokyo and features a variety of poker games, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha. The prize pool can reach up to $100,000.
- WSOP Asia Pacific: This event was held in Japan for the first time in 2017 and featured several tournaments, including a High Roller event with a buy-in of $25,000.
Despite the growing number of live tournaments, poker is still not widely accepted as a legitimate sport or form of entertainment in Japan. Many locals still see it as a form of gambling and view players with suspicion or disapproval.
The Future of Poker in Japan
With the upcoming 2020 Olympics being held in Tokyo, there has been some speculation that poker may be included as an exhibition sport. However, this seems unlikely given the current legal status of the game.
Nonetheless, the popularity of online poker continues to grow in Japan, and many players are hopeful that the government will eventually legalize and regulate poker as they have done with other forms of gambling.
In conclusion, while poker is not yet widely accepted or played in Japan, its popularity among local players is on the rise. With more live tournaments being held and online poker sites becoming more accessible, it is likely that we will see an increase in Japanese players on the international poker scene in the coming years.
