Online bingo is strictly illegal in Japan under the Criminal Code (Articles 185-186) and the amended Basic Act on Measures against Gambling and Other Addiction, which took effect on September 25, 2025 (1). Japan prohibits all forms of online gambling regardless of whether the operators are licensed in foreign jurisdictions. Participating in online bingo or any online gambling activity constitutes a criminal offense under Japanese law, with no exceptions for foreign-licensed platforms (1).
Individuals caught engaging in online bingo face criminal penalties including fines up to ¥500,000 (approximately USD 3,400) for simple gambling offenses, and imprisonment up to three years for habitual gambling (2). The revised law criminalizes not only the participation in online bingo but also the promotion, advertisement, and any form of encouragement of online gambling activities. Operating online gambling websites or providing referral links to foreign platforms is prohibited, and social media platforms are required to remove gambling-related content upon government request (1). Banks are also instructed to block transactions related to known online gambling platforms (2).
"The Japanese government emphasises that gambling remains illegal under its Criminal Code, even when conducted on platforms that are legally licensed and operated overseas. The revised law reinforces this by stating that any bets placed through such platforms by residents of Japan constitute a criminal offence."
Japan has taken unprecedented international action by requesting eight foreign jurisdictions (Canada, Costa Rica, Georgia, Malta, Curacao, Isle of Man, Gibraltar, and Anjouan) to block access to their licensed online casino websites for Japanese residents (2). The government recognizes that approximately 3.37 million Japanese people are engaged in online gambling, with most being under 40 years old, reflecting serious addiction concerns. Despite these restrictions, enforcement primarily targets operators and promoters rather than individual players, though players face legal risk if detected. The government emphasizes responsible gambling through awareness campaigns and educational programs conducted in schools and workplaces. Japan's conservative approach reflects its commitment to protecting citizens from gambling addiction while only allowing tightly regulated land-based casinos within designated Integrated Resort developments.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/japan-enforces-new-law-to-curb-gambling-addiction-and-restrict-online-casinos/
https://next.io/news/regulation/japan-reinforces-anti-casino-stance-updated-law/
Last updated: 31-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
