Article 185 of the Japanese Penal Code (Act No. 45 of April 24, 1907) provides that a person who gambles shall be punished by a fine or a petty fine of not more than JPY 500,000, unless the item which is placed on bet is that of momentary amusement.

Japan is not known for casinos because they were banned by the Criminal Code at the start of the 20th century. This made casino gaming including slots and table games like poker all illegal, in an effort to prevent addiction.