Pachinko - Casino Japanese Style - Tokyo - Japan

Pachinko is a Japanese gaming machine for amusement and gambling. A pachinko machine looks like a vertical pinball with no flippers and small balls. The machines are widespread in establishments called "pachinko parlors", which also often feature a number of slot machines. Pachinko parlors share the reputation of slot machine dens and casinos. It impossible to miss them, normally located near train stations, they have garish decoration; over-the-top architecture; a low-hanging cloud of cigarette smoke; the constant noise of the machines, music, announcements; and flashing lights. Because gambling for cash is illegal in Japan, balls won cannot be exchanged directly for cash in the parlor. Instead, the balls are exchanged for token prizes, which can then be taken outside and traded in for cash at a business that is separate from the parlor.

Landing Away in Japan