Guaranteed Prize Pool: ¥43,000,000

Number of Events: 49 (58)

U Series Championship Japan Q1 2026 | Feb 27 - Mar 4 | Umeda Sky Building, Osaka

Jessy is a technical editor and data specialist at Somuchpoker, leveraging a background in programming to manage our live event database. He is responsible for the rapid and accurate publication of all poker festival schedules. His work is critical in upholding SMP's commitment to being the most reliable and timely news source for the poker community.

Updated: 2026.01.17

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.

Event	Buy-In	GTD
#1 Main Event 2025.02.27 - 2025.03.02	60,000 JPY	33,000,000

#2 Mini Main Event 2025.03.02 - 2025.03.04	30,000 JPY	10,000,000

#3 Super High Roller -35Ecap- 2025.02.28	200,000 JPY

#4 Marvelous High Roller -35Ecap- 2025.03.01	500,000 JPY

#5 【6max】High Roller -50Ecap- 2025.03.02	100,000 JPY

#6 【7max】 Super High Roller -50Ecap- 2025.03.03	200,000 JPY

#7 【6max】 Ultra High Roller -35Ecap- 2025.03.04	300,000 JPY

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 - SOMUCHPOKER

Umeda Sky Building is one of Osaka’s most iconic architectural landmarks, best known for the Floating Garden Observatory, cultural exhibitions, offices, and premium event spaces. While the venue can host a wide range of private and corporate events, poker-related activities may only occur occasionally, such as invitation-only tournaments, promotional events, or closed-group poker gatherings.

It is important to note that Umeda Sky Building does not operate a public poker room or daily cash games. Due to Japan’s strict gambling regulations, traditional poker rooms are uncommon, and poker is typically offered through private clubs, membership-based venues, or carefully structured legal events. In this context, Umeda Sky Building should be regarded as a prestige event location, not a regular poker destination.