Why is gambling so big in Japan?
Gambling has a long history in several countries across Asia, especially in the Land of the Rising Sun - Japan. The first evidence of gambling in Japan goes back to the time of the samurai several centuries ago. Gambling was initially a free activity until gambling laws appeared centuries later. Then, samurai and regular people were forbidden from gambling and wagering. The execution was the punishment for being caught gambling.
It was only at the beginning of the 18th century that some forms of wagering were legalized - it was the most flourishing epoch for gambling in Japan. However, two centuries later, new and stricter gambling laws of the Penal Code of 1907 established that all forms of gambling were banned from the country.
How Gambling Is Seen Today In Japan
Foreigners visiting Japan might think it's weird to see so many restrictions on gambling, especially British tourists. But Japan has a different regulatory system that bans all forms of wagering. That's why Japan has no physical casinos. However, there's an exception to this rule: Pachinko. Originating during World War 2, this Japanese game has flourished into a thriving industry in the Land of the Rising Sun. Pachinko continues to captivate millions of Japanese players as a profitable and enthralling form of entertainment. In terms of sheer statistics, Pachinko boasts an astounding workforce of over 300,000 employees and attracts a staggering 30 million devoted players nationwide.
How Could Pachinko Develop In Japan?
It may seem unusual that Pachinko has achieved such widespread success in a country with stringent gambling regulations. However, the truth is, Pachinko has never been classified as gambling. Therefore, it has been exempted from the restrictions imposed by the Penal Code, owing to its cultural significance, and has continued to gain popularity to this day.
However, there is another factor that contributed to the government's acceptance of Pachinko: its immense financial profitability. In fact, the revenue generated by Pachinko alone surpasses that of all the casinos in Las Vegas combined, amounting to over $200 billion annually!
The dual combination of cultural significance and substantial financial gain has propelled Pachinko to its extraordinary position in Japanese society today.
Online Gambling In Today's Japan
Today, Pachinko isn't the only gambling entertainment available in Japan. The game has many strong competitors, such as online sports betting platforms and casinos. Japanese laws about online gambling are vague, however, casino operators and bettors both risk arrest if caught gambling. As a result, Japanese gamblers use a VPN connection to play outside of the country on international online casinos. Japanbets is one of the most recommended casino directories for updates and tips about betting on sports and casino games.
The legality of playing online is also unsure, but the risk to be questioned about gambling online is quite remote. As a result, Japanese casino fans look for online alternatives suggested on platforms such as Japanbets.
A Forecast On The Future Of Gambling In Japan
The revenue perspective from legal gambling is often tempting for governments to change the laws. Gambling can generate huge profits for the government to use for several services in the public interest, like health research, hospitals, education, and others.
Furthermore, the legalization of gambling can create employment while fighting the spread of illegal gambling under the control of criminal groups.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, gambling in Japan has a complex history shaped by strict regulations and exceptions like Pachinko. While the cultural significance of Pachinko and its immense financial profitability have allowed it to thrive, the online gambling industry is also gaining momentum. The uncertain legal landscape surrounding online gambling calls for a reevaluation of Japan's gambling laws. The potential revenue and employment opportunities that legalizing gambling can bring are enticing, and it may be time for the government to consider the benefits of regulation.
