U Series Championship Osaka 2026 | Feb 27 - Mar 4 | Umeda Sky Building, Osaka

The U Series Championship opens a new chapter in the Far East poker scene, arriving in one of Japan’s most exciting metropolises, Osaka , for its first stop of 2026. Running from February 27 to March 4, the festival will be hosted at the iconic Umeda Sky Building , providing a futuristic backdrop worthy of the region’s newest premium tournament series.

U Series Championship Highlights

Launching under this new brand, the festival immediately targets the highest standards: the 6-day schedule offers excitement for lovers of every game type. The series is anchored by the prestigious Main Event and High Roller tournaments attracting high-stakes players, guaranteeing a strong international field in Osaka.

Full Tournament Schedule

The U Series Championship Japan Q1 2026 schedule is tight and action-packed, specifically designed to deliver the maximum poker experience within a short timeframe. Buy-ins range widely, ensuring that everyone from recreational players to pros finds their place across various formats.

Texas Hold’em
Pot Limit Omaha
Short Deck

Click here for the full schedule of U Series Championship Japan Q1 2026

Poker and Travel Guide to Japan

Japan is one of the world’s safest and most fascinating destinations, and Osaka is known as the country’s “kitchen,” famous for its more relaxed atmosphere and excellent gastronomy. For poker players, it is important to note that due to Japanese regulations, tournament payouts may differ from standard casino systems (often in the form of sponsorship contracts or travel packages, running as a “Prize Pool”), but the organizational standard is always world-class.

Registration and Buy-in Information

The registration desk is located directly at the entrance of the tournament hall within the Umeda Sky Building event space. Buy-ins must be paid in local currency, Japanese Yen (JPY). For international players, exchanging cash (JPY) in advance is recommended, although limited card payment options may be available on-site.

Destination and Sightseeing in Osaka

Osaka’s vibrant nightlife and food scene are legendary. During breaks, it is worth exploring the neon-lit streets of the Dotonbori district and tasting the local specialty, takoyaki. A must-see attraction is the Osaka Castle itself, preserving history amidst a ring of modern skyscrapers.

Travel Logistics

The Umeda Sky Building is located in the center of Osaka, in the Umeda/Kita district, with excellent transport links.

• Airport Transfer: From Kansai International Airport (KIX), the easiest way to reach Osaka Station is via the JR Haruka express train or the airport limousine bus (approx. 50-60 minutes).
• Local Transport: In Osaka, the subway network and JR trains are the most efficient. Taxis can be more expensive but offer a convenient option directly to your hotel.
• Accommodation: It is advisable to book accommodation near Umeda Station, from where the venue is within walking distance.

Previous Results and Champions

This festival marks the very first event for the U Series Championship in this format and region, opening a completely new chapter in the organization’s history. As this is an inaugural event, there are no past champions or results to report yet—current competitors will have the first opportunity to write their names in the history books.

Champions (Current)

The list of 2026 U Series Championship Japan Q1 champions will be available here after the tournaments conclude. Follow the events to find out who will be the first titleholders!

The Venue: Umeda Sky Building

The tournament is hosted by the world-famous Umeda Sky Building (Umeda Sukai Biru), one of Osaka’s most recognizable landmarks. The event halls located beneath the “Floating Garden” observatory, which connects the two 40-story towers at the top, provide spacious areas and modern infrastructure for poker tournaments.

Umeda Sky Building Poker: Tournament Action at Osaka’s Sky Tower

Japan (JP)

Currency[JPY] ¥

Time ZoneUTC+09:00

Umeda Sky Building

Osaka

skybldg.co.jp/en

The Umeda Sky Building is an architectural marvel and a signature landmark of Osaka , consisting of two 40-story towers linked by a spectacular “Floating Garden Observatory”. While globally famous for its futuristic design and panoramic city views, it has also established itself as a premier venue for high-stakes international poker festivals. Located in the bustling Umeda district, the building offers a sophisticated, high-rise stage that combines Osaka’s ultra-modern energy with the professional world of competitive poker.

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Why Umeda Sky Building?

• Iconic Championship Stage: A recurring choice for prestigious series such as the U Series Championship (USC)  and the Ace Poker League (APL).
• Versatile Event Space: Features a total of 15 event venues, including the 684m² Stella Hall, providing column-free space capable of hosting hundreds of players.
• Futuristic Atmosphere: Provides a unique, high-end environment with glass-enclosed elevators and mid-air escalators that elevate the tournament experience for international visitors.

♠️
PRIMARY FOCUS
Tournaments

💰
BUY-INS
Low to High Roller

🚇
ACCESS
Walkable from Osaka Stn.

The Umeda Sky Championship Experience

The poker action at Umeda Sky Building is exclusively tournament-focused, serving as a prestige event location rather than a permanent poker room. During marquee festivals like the USOP Japan or APL Osaka, the building’s conference halls in Tower East are transformed into a world-class arena featuring professional dealers, high-quality equipment, and massive guaranteed prize pools. The venue is known for its streamlined registration and professional staff who handle record-breaking fields across formats ranging from No-Limit Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha to Mystery Bounty and High Roller championships.

Players at Umeda Sky Building are situated in the center of Osaka’s major business and entertainment hub. Between tournament flights, participants can enjoy the world-famous Floating Garden Observatory or explore the retro Takimi Koji underground market featuring dozens of local eateries. Its proximity to JR Osaka Station makes it the perfect base for international grinders looking to experience both high-stakes competition and the best of Japanese urban culture.

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Venue Logistics

📍 Location: Situated in the Kita Ward, approximately a 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station via a dedicated underground walkway.

🏨 Accommodations: The surrounding Shin-Umeda City area includes high-end options like The Westin Osaka and numerous business hotels within walking distance.

📝 Entry & Requirements: Entry requirements vary by event organizer, but international players must present a valid original passport for tournament registration and identity verification.

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♠️ Official Venue Information

Check for facility details and general building information.

Official Website

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