![Japan [JPN]](/assets/images/flags/4x3/jp.svg "Japan [JPN]"){kind=small}
Japan, Osaka
U Series Champ. Osaka Q2 2026 | April 29 – May 6, 2026 | Dojima River Forum
The U Series Champ. Osaka Q2 2026 is set to be one of the most exciting stops in Asia, bringing world-class poker back to the heart of Japan. This event will take place from April 29 to May 6, 2026, at the stunning Dojima River Forum . Following the “Unleash Your Inner Champion” theme, the series promises high-octane action with over 70 scheduled tournaments, catering to players from across the globe.
U Series Champ. Osaka Highlighted Events
The nine-day festival features a massive lineup led by the prestigious Main Event and the Mini Main Event. High-stakes enthusiasts can look forward to elite competitions such as the Super High Roller, Amazing High Roller, and the Marvelous High Roller, all offering significant prize pools and signature championship trophies.
Full Tournament Schedule
With more than 70 events on the calendar, the U Series Champ. Osaka Q2 2026 offers a diverse range of buy-ins and formats. From daily side events to multi-million yen High Roller showdowns, the schedule ensures nonstop competition for every level of player.
Key poker variants featured in the event:
- Texas Hold’em (NLH)
- Pot Limit Omaha (PLO)
- Short Deck (6+)
- Open-Face Chinese Poker (OFC)
Satellites & Qualification
Players can qualify for the Main Event and High Roller championships through live satellites held on-site. these events run throughout the opening days of the festival at the Dojima River Forum, providing an affordable pathway to the series’ biggest prize pools.
Live Stream & Coverage
The global poker community can stay connected with the action in Osaka through various digital platforms. The coverage aims to showcase the high technical standards and the unique atmosphere of the U Series Champ. series.
Poker & Travel Guide
Japan, and specifically Osaka, is widely regarded as one of the safest and most vibrant destinations for poker travelers. The city offers a unique mix of modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks, alongside a world-famous culinary scene. The local poker community is growing rapidly, known for its polite players and professional tournament atmosphere. You can find more details about local regulations in our Japan poker guide . Osaka boasts excellent transportation links, and the Dojima River Forum is centrally located for easy access to the city‘s best hotels.
Official Poker Guide
All tournaments follow international TDA rules, utilizing the Big Blind Ante format to ensure a smooth and fast-paced game. While structures vary depending on the event, the U Series Champ. is known for its deep-stack formats that favor skill and strategy.
Registration & Buy-in Information
Registration takes place at the Dojima River Forum and opens at least one hour before the start of each event. Players should be aware of specific local requirements regarding currency and payouts in Japan.
- Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY).
- Identification: A valid passport is mandatory for all international players to register.
Destination Guide & Must See
Known as “Japan’s Kitchen”, Osaka is a paradise for food lovers. Between sessions, players can explore the city‘s iconic landmarks and entertainment districts.
- Dotonbori: The heart of Osaka‘s nightlife, famous for its street food and the Glico Man sign.
- Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo): A historic landmark surrounded by a massive park.
- Umeda Sky Building: Offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
Travel Essentials
Traveling to Osaka is convenient for international visitors thanks to modern infrastructure.
- Airport Transfer: Kansai International Airport (KIX) is approximately 50-60 minutes from the city center via express train or bus.
- Transportation: The subway is the most efficient way to travel within Osaka, while the Grab app is also a reliable option for taxis.
- Accommodation: Numerous business and luxury hotels are located within walking distance of the venue in the Umeda (Kita) area.
Past Results & Champions
The U Series Champ. has quickly become a dominant force in Japan‘s poker landscape. The 2026 season started with record-breaking numbers, setting a high bar for the Osaka Q2 return.
Previous Festival Highlights
The U Series Champ. Japan Q1 2026 held in February 2026 was a massive success , attracting a record field of 1,178 entries for the Main Event. The title was won by local player Takubon, who earned a top prize of JPY 7,000,000 (~$44,500). A total of 49 trophies were awarded during the series, including the Mini Main Event, which was won by Judy from South Korea. The festival’s success solidified Osaka as one of the premier poker hubs in the region.
The Venue: Dojima River Forum
The Dojima River Forum is a modern, multi-purpose facility in central Osaka, offering spacious areas and excellent lighting for large-scale poker tournaments. Located right by the river, it provides an elegant setting and premium hospitality for the international field.
![Japan [JPN]](/assets/images/flags/1x1/jp.svg "Japan [JPN]"){kind=small}
Dojima River Forum is a striking, modern multipurpose hall situated on the banks of the Dojima River in the vibrant Nakanoshima district of Osaka . Known for its sleek, industrial-chic design and world-class facilities, it has evolved from a cultural landmark into one of Japan’s most significant poker battlegrounds. As a primary host for major international tours, the forum provides an elite stage that bridges the gap between traditional Japanese hospitality and the high-intensity world of professional poker.
Why Dojima River Forum?
- Major Championship Hub: A flagship venue for the Japan Open Poker Tour and the premier choice for the U Series Championship (USC) Japanese debut.
- High-Capacity Arena: Features a massive 830m² main hall capable of hosting over 100 tables, ensuring it can accommodate record-breaking festival fields.
- Upscale Environment: Offers a modern, bright, and spacious setting that provides optimal comfort and visibility for both players and spectators.
PRIMARY FOCUS
Tournaments
BUY-INS
Low to High Roller
ACCESS
Walkable from MRT
The Osaka Championship Experience
The poker action at Dojima River Forum is almost exclusively focused on large-scale tournament series. It is renowned for hosting elite events with professional dealers, high-quality equipment, and transparent structures, such as the 12% rake featured during USOP stops. While permanent casinos do not exist in Japan, the forum transforms into a world-class poker arena during festivals, offering a diverse lineup ranging from standard No-Limit Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha to Mystery Bounties and Platinum High Roller events.
The venue’s prime location in Fukushima-ku means players are just minutes away from some of Osaka’s best post-game attractions, including the National Museum of Art and the legendary nightlife of Namba. Whether acting as the main stage for the JOPT Osaka or hosting invite-only showcases like the SE7EN Dragon Asia Championship, the forum consistently sets a new standard for professional poker in Japan.
Venue Logistics
📍 Location: Situated in the Fukushima Ward, conveniently located on the banks of the Dojima River in Nakanoshima.
🏨 Accommodations: The surrounding area is densely packed with high-grade rental apartments and international hotels suitable for travelers attending multi-day series.
📝 Entry & Requirements: Tournament entry requirements vary by series, but international players should always have a valid passport available for registration at the venue.
♠️ Official Venue Information
Check for current event schedules and general facility updates.
