![Taiwan [TWN]](/assets/images/flags/4x3/tw.svg "Taiwan [TWN]"){kind=small}
Taiwan, Taipei City
- Guaranteed Prize Pool
- NT$2,000,000
- Number of Events
- 18 (28)
AJPC Samurai Circuit - Taiwan 2026 | May 11-18 | CTP Asia Poker Arena
The AJPC Samurai Circuit returns to the heart of Taiwan in May 2026, offering a week of high-octane poker action in Taipe i. The prestigious CTP Asia Poker Arena will host the festivities from May 11 to May 18, 2026 . This series perfectly blends Japanese precision with the dynamic energy of the Taiwanese poker community, promising massive fields and significant prize pools for players across the region.
AJPC Samurai Circuit Taiwan 2026 Highlighted Events
The core of this eight-day festival is built around the fan-favorite Samurai Main Event and the high-stakes High Roller tournaments. These events offer more than just prestigious trophies; they provide life-changing prize money and the chance to compete against Asia’s elite players.
Full Tournament Schedule
With over a dozen events scheduled throughout the week, the festival caters to all bankroll levels. The lineup includes classic formats alongside fast-paced Turbo editions and specialty games to keep the action fresh for every participant.
Learn more about the rules of the most popular poker variants here:
- Texas Hold’em (NLH)
- Pot Limit Omaha (PLO)
- Short Deck (6+)
Satellites & Qualification
Players can secure their seats in the major events for a fraction of the cost via on-site live satellites. These qualifiers typically run in the mornings or on the days leading up to the main attractions, providing an accessible path to the high-stakes glory.
Poker & Travel Guide
Taiwan, and specifically Taipei, stands out as one of Asia’s safest and most accessible poker destinations. The city is renowned for its world-class public transport, breathtaking night markets, and incredibly welcoming atmosphere. The CTP Asia Poker Arena is perfectly situated, surrounded by numerous hotels and dining options. The Taiwanese poker scene has exploded in recent years, ensuring a vibrant and competitive environment for international visitors. While the weather in May is generally pleasant, occasional showers are common in this tropical metropolis.
Official Poker Guide (Rules & Structures)
Tournaments follow international standards, utilizing a Big Blind Ante format to ensure smooth gameplay. The blind structures and starting stacks are designed to provide ample room for tactical play, favoring skill and strategy.
For more details, visit the official guide.
Registration & Buy-in Information
Registration takes place directly at the CTP Asia Poker Arena registration desk. To avoid long queues, players are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of their intended tournament.
- Currency: All buy-ins are accepted exclusively in New Taiwan Dollars (TWD).
- Identification: A valid photo ID or passport is mandatory for registration.
Destination Guide & Must See
Exploring Taipei is a treat for any poker traveler. The city offers a unique blend of modern marvels and traditional culture. Make sure to visit the local night markets for a true taste of Taiwan after your sessions.
- Taipei 101: The city’s iconic skyscraper offering panoramic views of the entire valley.
- Shilin Night Market: The largest and most famous night market for authentic street food.
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: A magnificent historical landmark in the heart of the city.
Travel Essentials
Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) serves as the primary gateway for international arrivals.
- Airport Transfer: The Taoyuan Airport MRT or a taxi is the fastest way to reach the city center (approx. 40-50 minutes).
- Transportation: Within Taipei, the Metro (MRT) is highly efficient. Ride-sharing apps like Grab/Uber are also widely available.
- Accommodation: Numerous hotels ranging from luxury to budget are located within walking distance of the CTP Arena.
Past Results & Champions
The AJPC Samurai Circuit has established a strong foothold in Taiwan, with each stop attracting growing crowds. Historical data shows a healthy mix of local talent and international professionals, drawn by the high level of organization and prize pools.
Previous Festival Highlights
The most recent AJPC Samurai Circuit Taiwan 2025 Oct was a landmark event at CTP Asia Poker Arena. It attracted hundreds of unique entries, resulting in prize pools that shattered initial expectations. High-profile regional pros and rising local stars competed fiercely, solidifying the series’ reputation as a must-play tour in Asia. The Main Event in particular saw massive participation, highlighting the rapid growth of the brand in Taipei.
| Event | Buy-In | Winner | Country | 1st Prize | Entries | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11,000 NTD (10,000 + 1,000) | ![Hong Kong [HKG]](/assets/images/flags/4x3/hk.svg "Hong Kong [HKG]"){kind=small} HKG | $14,215 435,000 NTD | 184 ITM: 30 | Finished | ||
| 16,500 NTD (15,000 + 1,500) | HKG | $26,140 800,000 NTD | 265 ITM: 42 | Finished | ||
| 8,000 NTD (7,000 + 1,000) | HKG | $7,955 243,500 NTD | 179 ITM: 27 | Finished | ||
| 22,000 NTD (20,000 + 2,000) | ![Netherlands [NLD]](/assets/images/flags/4x3/nl.svg "Netherlands [NLD]"){kind=small} NLD | $1,880 57,600 NTD | 3 ITM: 1 | Finished | ||
| 33,000 NTD (30,000 + 3,000) | HKG | $7,985 244,400 NTD | 13 ITM: 2 | Finished | ||
Past Champions
Here is the list of winners from the most recent 2025 October series:
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong KongThe Venue: CTP Asia Poker Arena
Located in central Taipei, the CTP Asia Poker Arena is currently the most modern and largest dedicated poker room in the region. The venue features professional tables, comfortable seating, and highly trained staff, offering a world-class gaming experience 24/7.
![Taiwan [TWN]](/assets/images/flags/1x1/tw.svg "Taiwan [TWN]"){kind=small}
CTP Asia Poker Arena (APA) is the crown jewel of Taiwan’s booming poker scene and stands as the largest dedicated tournament venue in Asia. Located in the heart of Taipei, this 540-square-meter facility was established by the Chinese Texas Hold’em Poker Association (CTP) to provide a world-class environment for “mind sports.” With its sleek, modern design and state-of-the-art livestreaming capabilities, the Arena serves as the primary home for international giants like the World Poker Tour (WPT) and Asian Poker Tour (APT) when they visit the island.
Why CTP Asia Poker Arena?
- Massive Capacity: A sprawling venue that can accommodate up to 65 tables, ensuring space for massive player fields during international series.
- Livestream Ready: Features a professional 9-player feature table equipped with the latest RFID technology and a dedicated commentary room.
- Automated Experience: Membership and registration are fully integrated through the CTP app, streamlining seat assignments and chip distribution.
GAMES
Tournaments Only
LOCATION
Zhongshan, Taipei
MEMBERSHIP
CTP App Required
The Tournament Experience
The Arena is strictly a tournament destination, as cash games are not permitted under Taiwan’s current legal framework. Action runs daily, typically starting at 11:00 AM and continuing until the final table of the night concludes. Buy-ins for daily events usually range from TWD 1,000 to TWD 4,000 (~$30–$125), making it accessible for local enthusiasts.
For the more serious grinders, the venue hosts major regional series like the Taiwan Millions Tournament (TMT) , Zodiac Series of Poker (ZSOP) , Players Series (PS) , Asia Poker Championship (APC) , and Ola Poker Tour . During these festivals, buy-ins scale significantly, with Main Events around TWD 9,000–45,000 (~$285–$1,425) and High Roller events reaching upwards of TWD 100,000. The facility even includes a dedicated section for Match Poker, a team-based variation that has gained significant traction in Taiwan.
Venue Logistics
📍 Location: B1, No. 80, Section 1, Jianguo North Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City. It is easily accessible via the Taipei Metro (MRT).
🍴 Amenities: The venue features an on-site restaurant, Mr. Chee, and a lounge area. Its central location means hundreds of local food vendors and convenience stores are within walking distance.
🎒 Travel Tip: Most players stay in the Zhongshan or Songshan districts. A 5–10 minute taxi or Uber ride is the most convenient way to reach the Arena from most major hotels.
