Kyōtei

Other popular types of motor boat racing include circuit racing and drag racing. Circuit racing takes place on closed courses, often around islands or other landmarks. Drag racing, meanwhile, is a straight-line race between two boats. The distinctive form of hydroplane racing called kyōtei is one of just a few types of gambling allowed under Japanese law. Proceeds from races are used to fund local municipalities and support the activities of nongovernmental organizations.

One theory suggests that a Ryukyun prince was studying in Nanjing, China, when he saw the local Chinese doing these races. Upon returning home, the prince made his own Sabani, and soon afterward, local Okinawan fishermen made theirs too to be used for fishing and later for racing competitions. These races were banned when Japan made the Ryukyuan Kingdom one of their prefectures. The races were temporarily revived until 1928 when it was once again abolished. Dragon boat races wouldn’t become a permanent yearly event until 1975. One of Okinawa’s biggest annual events, the Haarii festival runs over three days, and attracts more than 150,000 spectators.

Powerful races, as you can see throughout the video, are sometimes called "water martial arts." "BOAT RACE and the City │ Boat Race PR （BOAT RACE and the City │ボートレースPR【ボートレース公式 BOATRACE official】）" is a PR video work that allows you to enjoy the power of boat racing. According to the ancient Chinese imperial calendar, the Dragon Boat Festival was held in the Fifth month , it is known as a popular seasonal disease outbreak period -- summer, which commonly known as "evil" in the old days. During this time, all acting in the aim of keeping with the principle of rest, otherwise, people will get sick easily. We tried various ways of predicting winners – we listened to the engine noise to try to pick the best boat; we looked at the statistics for each racer; we chose the racer wearing our favorite color, etc.

Up until 2012, they were also permitted to use their own propellers. Once a race begins, boats fight for the best position entering the first turn marker. Race winners are often decided on the very first turn of the race.

Nagasaki was greatly influenced by the Chinese, many of whom crossed over to Japan bringing with them their cuisine and lively festivals. The Yokohama Dragon Boat races take place over the weekend and the one prior but the final Sunday is the day of the International Champions Cup race in which 15 teams are expected to participate. The best place to see the action is from the seaside path of Yamashita Park where there will also be stage events and booths selling food and drink. The Dragon Boat race is part of the wider Yokohama Port Festival that takes place over the same weekend. Keirin racing was originally developed in Japan as a form of gambling, and it remains one of the most popular forms of gambling in the country today.

The kyōtei season begins in January and runs the entire year. The premier fixture is the year-end grand prix, which is held 競艇 in December and features the circuit’s 18 highest earners. Securing a slot in this event is a major factor motivating racers over the long and arduous season. A unique aspect of the sport is the fact that women can compete as equally as men. As the weights of racers make an important difference in hydroplane racing, female racers, often lighter than their male counterparts, have certain advantages. Check out other events happening around Okinawa like these cherry blossom viewing spots, the Naha Matsuri, and the Tedako Festival.

See a celebration of Okinawa’s rich nautical history at the Naha Haarii, or dragon boat races. Every May during Japan’s Golden Week, the Naha Haarii transforms the Nahashin Port into a battle zone, as dragon boat teams compete in high-energy races. Hydroplane boat racing is one of a few varieties of public wagering allowed under Japan’s strict gambling laws. Other types include horse racing , bicycle racing , motorcycle speedway (ōtorēsu), and lotteries.

I had a great time learning how to bet on motorboats with friends. Another popular type of powerboat race in Japan is the circuit boat race, which takes place on a circular track. This type of race is often longer than a drag boat race, and can last for several hours.