Even as prediction platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi surged into the global mainstream in recent years, Japan — like its Asian neighbors China and South Korea — remained a no-go zone due to strict anti-gambling regulations. That may be starting to change, thanks to enterprising new startups that are finding ways to skirt regulations.

Leading the charge are homegrown platforms launched by Gen Z entrepreneurs. Spearheaded by seven-month-old Miraima, the apps allow users to wager on real-world events and win points that can be converted into monetary rewards such as gift cards — an indirect payout system that’s similar to the workaround employed by pachinko, the country’s $100 billion pinball gaming industry, to remain legal.

“It’s a bit addictive,” said Ryoga Kamei, an IT engineer in his 20s who says he’s earned more than ¥10,000 a month in points on Miraima and similar apps. A soccer fan, he mostly bets on sports matches. “I find myself opening the apps whenever I have a spare moment, or when there’s news that might move the odds,” he said.