Most gambling activities are illegal in Japan under Article 185 of the Criminal Code, with a few notable exceptions. I'll explain exactly what's allowed and what isn't under Japanese law.

Legal forms of gambling in Japan include:

• Public sports betting (soccer and horse racing)
• Lottery tickets (takarakuji)
• Pachinko and pachislot
• Motor boat racing
• Bicycle racing

The Japanese government strictly regulates these activities through various government bodies and local authorities. Pachinko, while technically not classified as gambling, operates in a legal grey area through a unique system where players exchange prizes for cash at separate locations.

Traditional casino gambling remains illegal in Japan, including:

• Table games (poker, blackjack, roulette)
• Slot machines (outside of pachislot parlors)
• Sports betting (except for authorized public sports)
• Online gambling websites

However, Japan passed the Integrated Resort (IR) Implementation Bill in 2018, which will allow up to three casino resorts to operate in the country. These resorts must include other facilities like hotels, shopping centers, and convention spaces. The first locations are expected to open in the late 2020s.

Penalties for illegal gambling in Japan can be severe. Operating an illegal gambling establishment can result in up to 5 years in prison and substantial fines. Even participating in illegal gambling activities can lead to fines and up to 3 years imprisonment.

Japanese citizens can face prosecution for gambling in unauthorized venues, even when traveling abroad. However, enforcement of this law is generally limited to organized crime-related cases.

For tourists visiting Japan, it's important to stick to legal gambling options like pachinko or authorized sports betting to avoid any legal issues. The gambling laws are strictly enforced, particularly when connected to organized crime or unlicensed operations.

While Japan maintains strict gambling regulations, the landscape is gradually changing with the upcoming integrated resorts. These changes reflect Japan's careful balance between maintaining social order and adapting to modern entertainment demands.

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