A beginner’s guide to playing pachinko
Six starting steps, understanding the screen, calling staff and recovering unused money when you finish.
Read the English playing guideGLOBAL PACHINKO · ENGLISH
Discover pachinko in Japan
Want to understand how to play, find a hall to visit or learn about working in a pachinko hall? Start with the guide that fits your needs.
Learn to play pachinkoWhat would you like to know?
Working in a pachinko hall
Check your status of residence and required permission before applying. Learn about your first shift, safety and useful Japanese phrases.
Read the English work guideFind halls in Tokyo and Osaka
Explore partner halls, directions, opening hours and language-support options. Listings and individual hall pages are currently in English; check what support is available before visiting.
Browse halls (English)How are pachinko and pachislot different?
Pachinko uses balls and a handle. Pachislot (パチスロ) uses reels, a start lever and stop buttons. Both may be found in the same hall, but their controls and game flow differ. The playing guide below focuses on pachinko with an LCD screen.
Before visiting a hall
- People under 18 cannot enter a pachinko hall as customers. Also check each hall’s entry rules and bring identification for age checks when needed.
- Set spending and time limits before playing. No amount guarantees a Bonus or the recovery of money spent.
- Check the ball-rental rate and machine instructions. If you do not understand a control, press the call button for staff.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I learn if I do not speak Japanese?
Read the English playing guide and show staff the Japanese questions included in it. Language support varies between halls; do not assume that English-speaking staff are available.
Read the full guideHow much money do I need to play pachinko?
The cost depends on ball-rental rates and how you play. Read the rate displayed at the machine, choose a suitable spending limit and stop when you reach it. Ball-rental prices differ from prize-exchange value; no spending amount guarantees a playing outcome.
Does permission to work 28 hours a week allow a job in a pachinko hall?
The 28-hour limit alone does not establish eligibility. From 1 October 2026, people with Dependent (家族滞在) status may apply for individual permission to work at eligible halls. Work may begin only after permission is granted and its conditions are met. People with Student (留学) status are not covered by this scheme. Consult the work guide and official sources for your own situation.
Read the full guideFor businesses
Sources
Machine explanations refer to guidance from manufacturer SANKYO. Work-permission information refers to Japan’s Immigration Services Agency. Check the machine instructions, hall rules and official information that apply to your situation.