Introduction
Many poker players dream of playing overseas. In recent years, amusement casinos and poker apps have become more common in Japan, and the overall skill level has steadily improved. Still, the moment you think about playing in a real casino abroad, it can feel like the hurdle gets much higher.
Which countries are beginner-friendly? Which destinations are best for improving your game? And what about access, costs, and local prices? There’s a lot to consider. In this guide, we’ll share recommended countries for playing poker abroad and explain what makes each one appealing from several angles.
1. Las Vegas
First up is the ultimate classic: Las Vegas, USA. From beginners to advanced players, it’s hard to name a more iconic poker destination. Las Vegas is essentially a massive entertainment hub, buzzing day and night with players and tourists from around the world. s and staff are used to first-timers, and if you say it’s your first time, they’ll often explain basic rules or quietly guide you on table etiquette. Casinos also tend to welcome beginners, so Las Vegas can be the perfect first overseas poker experience.
What may surprise you is how many casual players you’ll find in the US. Especially at low to mid stakes, the atmosphere is often relaxed. Some people sit down on a whim after playing other casino games, and others play casually after work with a beer in hand. If you expect every overseas player to be a crusher, you might be shocked at how laid-back some tables feel. In terms of how beatable the games can be, the US remains one of the top recommendations.
That said, flight times and hotel costs can be high. Travel time is often 10+ hours one way, and with rising prices, food and activities can cost more than in Japan. If you can handle the budget, Las Vegas truly is a dream stage for poker.
Key points
- The entire city feels like an entertainment playground, perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime experience
- Many casual players and a relaxed vibe, especially at low to mid stakes
- Higher travel costs and a higher cost of living can increase your overall budget
2. South Korea
If you want an easier first step into overseas poker, South Korea is a strong option. It’s extremely accessible from Japan, with flight times of around 2 to 3 hours. It feels almost like taking a domestic trip from Tokyo.
In South Korea, most casinos primarily serve foreign visitors, and Koreans generally cannot enter. As a result, you’ll often see a lot of Japanese players. It’s not unusual to find yourself at a table with mostly Japanese speakers, which can feel reassuring if you’re worried about language barriers.
However, poker players in Korea have improved significantly in recent years, and the overall level is not low. Compared to the more casual vibe you often see in the US, many Asian players treat poker as a competitive game and tend to play solid, strategic poker. If your goal is less about “going to crush” and more about “getting real live experience close to Japan,” South Korea is an excellent choice.
Key points
- tanding access from Japan
- Many Japanese players, which can make the experience feel more comfortable
3. The Philippines and Cambodia
Other popular options in Asia include the Philippines and Cambodia. In the past, these countries had a reputation for softer games and being “easy to win in,” but recently, players have been sharing information more actively and studying harder, so it’s not quite that simple anymore.
Even so, these destinations still offer a major advantage: lower costs of living and more affordable stays. They’re also great for sightseeing, so they can be a good fit if you want to enjoy more than just the casino.
Key points
- Lower cost of living helps keep travel and accommodation affordable
- Easy to combine poker with sightseeing and other activities
4. Europe
Europe also has many countries with strong poker scenes. Major destinations like the UK, France, and Germany have casinos across the region, and the player pool is highly international.
At the same time, Europe attracts travelers with a global mindset, and many poker players there tend to be stronger overall.
And when you factor in exchange rates and high prices, the cost of staying in Europe can be significant.
Europe may suit intermediate to advanced players who want to combine travel with poker and enjoy higher-level competition. Rather than focusing purely on profit, it’s a great choice if you want to experience poker in a uniquely European atmosphere.
Key points
- Higher cost of living
- Stronger competition, better suited to intermediate and advanced players
- Plenty of sightseeing and cultural attractions beyond the casino
Conclusion: Table manners matter everywhere
When you compare these destinations, it becomes clear that the best choice depends on your goals. If you want to experience the true home of live poker, the US is the top pick, and Las Vegas is hard to beat. If you want to keep costs down while gaining real overseas live experience, South Korea and nearby Asian countries are practical options. If you want to enjoy the trip itself, balance sightseeing with poker, and test your skills while experiencing different cultures, Europe and other regions can be a great challenge.
No matter where you go, you need to respect international table manners. Your English doesn’t have to be perfect, but you should make an effort to communicate at the table in a shared language (usually English). Most players won’t share your cultural background, and if you keep chatting only in Japanese, others may feel excluded or even suspicious. In many countries, poker is strongly viewed as entertainment, so instead of staying silent and overly serious, you may find it easier to fit in by enjoying the moment and exchanging light jokes at the table. When you understand the local vibe and playing style, you can develop your own approach to enjoying poker abroad and have a much better experience.
You should also plan your bankroll with each destination in mind. In the US, travel and living costs are high, and you’ll need to handle things like cash declaration requirements properly, so preparation matters. In Asia, lower travel and hotel costs may let you allocate more of your budget to playing. In Europe, it’s easy to overspend on tourism, which can make it harder to balance your poker bankroll. Wherever you go, build a comfortable budget and research safety and local conditions in advance.
In the end, the “best” country depends on what you value most: how beatable the games are, ease of access, sightseeing, cultural experience, player skill level, prices, and language barriers. You can start with the classic choice of Las Vegas, or you can take an easier first step by testing yourself in South Korea. Revisit your goals and your playing style, then choose the destination that fits you. Playing poker abroad will add depth to your poker journey and open up a whole new perspective.