Item: Biwako Boat Race: Experience Japan's Daring Aquatic Betting Tradition
Rating: 5
Author: 577rebeccaq

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Biwako Boat Race: Experience Japan's Daring Aquatic Betting Tradition

5.0

2 Ratings

Kyoto

Experience the thrilling aquatic tradition of Biwako Boat Race in Japan. Bet on high-powered boats and watch exciting races on Lake Biwa. Legal and safe gambling with a guide's 20 years of experience.

Duration: 4 hours

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Boat Race Biwako - The aquatic version of the famous keirin racing, Biwako’s Boat Race makes for a thrilling afternoon.

Boat racing is one of the unique publicly operated forms of gambling that originated in Japan, and the organizer of the Biwako Boat Race is Shiga Prefecture. It is a legal and safe form of gambling. Enjoy (legal!) betting on the high powered boats and watching the thrilling races.

Beginning at Kyoto Station, you’ll travel to the beautiful Lake Biwa in Shiga for the event.

Duration: 4 hours

Group size: 2-6 people

¥20,000 per person including travel costs (Kyoto station to the stadium), a light meal, an entry fee and a reserved seat

Money or tickets used for any betting are not included

Not suitable for individuals 19 years and under

Availability will vary MONTH to MONTH.

The Booking Price does not include insurance of any type. You are responsible for obtaining sufficient insurance coverage. We strongly encourage you to obtain travel insurance.

What's Included

Private transportation
Entry fee for Biwako Boat Race
Reserved seat at the stadium
Snacks

What's Not Included

Money or tickets for betting
Insurance of any type

Additional Information

The aquatic version of the famous keirin racing, Biwako’s Boat Race, offers an exhilarating experience. Engage in (legal!) wagering on the robust motorboats and revel in the captivating races.

Boat racing stands as a distinctive, publicly sanctioned gambling activity that took root in Japan, and the Biwako Boat Race events are managed by Shiga Prefecture. It is a lawful and secure betting environment. The guide, with his 20 years of boat racing expertise, will give comprehensive guidance on how to take pleasure in the races and how to competently place wagers. Spectators will watch the contests from an exclusive seating arrangement.

Individuals who are at least 20 years old and have a casual interest in gambling, as well as a desire to witness the electrifying boat races and the stunning scenery of Lake Biwa, are cordially invited.

Group size: 2-6 people

Not suitable for travelers under the age of 20

Location

Kyoto Station

I'll be waiting for you near the big gate that says "JR Kyoto Station" at the main entrance to Kyoto station. You'll know me by my navy blue LINNELL'S backpack. I've included a photo of the meeting point -- which includes me and my big blue backpack -- in the photos above.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

5.0

(2 Ratings)

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1 star

Excursion00169676343

Feb 9, 2024

Amazing Local Experience! - Thanks to Kenji, I had a fantastic time watching Japanese boat racing. As a big American sports fan who loves to go to sports stadiums in the United States, I was expecting the American 'ballpark' experience: overpriced food, crowded seating, and rowdy fans. Japanese boat racing stadiums reject each one of these three negatives about American sports. First, you're allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the stadium. Second, you can enjoy your meal at spacious tables with a pristine view of the stadium lake. Third, although the fans are very respectful, they are still enthusiastic about the races. Kenji enhanced the boat racing experience through his extensive knowledge of the sport. He knew the betting system in great detail, informing me how to incorporate the racing, driver, and stadium data to give me the best chance to win. Thanks to Kenji, I felt comfortable trying my odds against the house. If you are interested in the excitement of sports, immersing yourself in Japanese culture, and having a great time, I highly recommend booking this tour with Kenji.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

577rebeccaq

Feb 8, 2024

Very interesting Japanese Boat Race - I have traveled to Japan many times but have never thought of watching a Japanese boat race. Thank you to Kenji San for introducing me and my family to this wonderful and fun event. Even though I am normally not into any sports race, it was quite fun to watch all the boats racing against each other, especially since there were all women racing which was easier for me to relate to. I would highly recommend going for this fun event.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

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up to 6 guests