Japanese BOAT RACE is a professional six-boat racing sport where lightweight hydroplanes reach nearly 80 km/h and compete over three 600-meter laps. Each boat has a fixed number and color, with No. 1 starting inside and No. 6 outside, and racers use a precise “flying start” before battling for position through the first turn, where mistakes can quickly decide the race. Outcomes depend on the racer, starting position, equipment, and water conditions, while fans can place regulated bets starting at 100 yen. The sport attracted about ¥2.61 trillion (roughly US$17 billion) in wagers during 2025, making it a major part of Japan’s public betting culture.
Learn about DRAG BOAT RACING.
