How to Buy Horse Racing Tickets in Japan
Introduction
Visiting Japan offers many unique experiences, and Japanese horse racing—known as Keiba—is one of them. Beyond the thrill of watching fast horses, buying a horse racing ticket (bet) is an exciting local tradition that allows you to participate in the action. This guide will show foreign visitors exactly how to buy horse racing tickets in Japan, even if it’s your first time.
Understanding Horse Racing Bets in Japan
Japanese horse racing offers several types of bets, from simple to complex. Here are the main ones:
| Bet Type | Description | Difficulty | Recommended for Beginners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tansho (Win) | Bet on a horse to finish 1st | Easy | ✅ |
| Fukusho (Place) | Bet on a horse to finish 1st, 2nd, or 3rd | Easy | ✅ |
| Umaren (Exacta) | Pick 1st and 2nd place horses in any order | Medium | ⚪ |
| Umatan (Exacta Order) | Pick 1st and 2nd place horses in exact order | Hard | ⚪ |
| Sanrenpuku / Sanrentan (Trifecta / Superfecta) | Pick top 3 horses (any or exact order) | Very Hard | ❌ |
For beginners, it is best to start with Tansho (Win) or Fukusho (Place) bets.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Horse Racing Tickets
1. Choose a Racecourse
Some popular racecourses accessible for foreign visitors include:
- Tokyo Racecourse – Fuchu, Tokyo; 30 min from Shinjuku
- Nakayama Racecourse – Chiba; 40 min from Tokyo Station
- Kyoto Racecourse – Kyoto; 30 min from Kyoto Station
Check the race schedule online or at the racecourse entrance.
2. Decide on the Bet Type
- Start with Tansho (Win) or Fukusho (Place).
- Check the racecard for horse numbers, jockey names, and odds.
- Decide how much money to bet. For beginners, ¥500–¥1,000 per ticket is enough to enjoy the experience.
3. Buying Tickets at the Racecourse
Ticket Counters
- Staff are usually friendly and can assist foreign visitors.
- Show the horse number and bet type.
- Pay cash and receive a paper ticket.
Ticket Machines
- Most racecourses have English menus.
- Steps:
- Select the race number.
- Choose horse number(s).
- Select bet type and amount.
- Confirm and print your ticket.
4. Placing Bets Online (Optional)
- Some racecourses allow pre-purchase via apps or websites.
- Create an account and use your credit card or Japanese payment options.
- Useful for busy weekends or major events like the Japan Cup.
5. Watching the Race
- Find your favorite horse and enjoy the race!
- Bets are paid out at the ticket counter if your horse wins.
- Keep your ticket safe; you need it to claim any payout.
Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Minimum Age: 20 years old to place bets.
- Start Small: Enjoy the experience without high stakes.
- Observe Locals: Learn cheers, gestures, and betting habits.
- Etiquette: Do not litter, respect staff, and maintain a friendly atmosphere.
- Responsible Gambling: Bet within your budget. Japanese races are fun but can be addictive.
Conclusion
Buying horse racing tickets in Japan is easier than you might think. With clear instructions, English-friendly signage, and helpful staff, even first-time visitors can participate safely. Start with simple bets like Tansho (Win), enjoy the excitement of the race, and immerse yourself in a unique aspect of Japanese culture.
Next time you visit Japan, try betting on a horse and cheer alongside local fans for an unforgettable experience!
Travel Tip Summary:
- Minimum age: 20
- Budget: ¥500–¥1,000 per ticket for beginners
- Recommended bet type: Tansho (Win) or Fukusho (Place)
- Watch for race times and schedules
- Bet responsibly
Notes
- All illustrations are AI-generated.
- Focus on tourist-friendly, English-accessible environments.
- Avoid gambling promotion; emphasize cultural experience and fun.