Gambling in Japan is a curious mix of strict laws and surprising exceptions....

https://www.bookmark-url.win/gambling-in-japan-comes-with-a-curious-twist-while-mostly-illegal-a-few

Gambling in Japan is a curious mix of strict laws and surprising exceptions. While most betting is illegal, certain activities like pachinko, horse racing, keirin cycling, and kyōtei boat racing are fully regulated and popular with locals