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

https://www.oscarbookmarks.win/gambling-in-japan-is-a-curious-blend-of-strict-laws-and-curious-loopholes

Gambling in Japan is a curious mix of strict laws and surprising exceptions. While most forms of betting are illegal, a few government-regulated games like pachinko, horse racing, and keirin cycling races offer legal ways to try your luck