The Japan Cup is one of the most important international turf races in the world. The 2026 edition is scheduled for November 29 at Tokyo Racecourse and will be contested over 2400 metres on turf for horses age three and older.
Japan Racing Association lists a maximum field of 18 and total race value of ¥1.09 billion, with ¥500 million awarded to the winner.
Japan Cup 2026 key details
Date: November 29, 2026
Venue: Tokyo Racecourse
Distance: 2400 metres on turf
Eligibility: Horses age three and older
Maximum field: 18 starters
Total value: ¥1.09 billion
Winner prize: ¥500 million
International entry timeline
The early nomination deadline is October 6. Overseas runners must arrive in Japan by November 19, and declarations are due November 26.
Those dates make the Japan Cup a major late season target for elite turf horses emerging from championship races in Europe, North America, Australia and Asia.
A record bonus opportunity
Japan Racing Association expanded the Japan Cup bonus system for 2026. A qualifying horse that wins a top tier designated race can earn an additional US$5 million by winning the Japan Cup. JRA states that the combination of the race prize and maximum bonus can bring the winner’s return to US$8.2 million.
The qualifying structure includes major international races and now considers selected performances from both the current year and the previous year. This strengthens the Japan Cup’s role as a global championship target rather than an isolated domestic event.
Tokyo Racecourse challenge
The Japan Cup is run on the left handed turf course at Tokyo Racecourse. The home stretch measures 525 metres, giving runners a long final run to the finish after negotiating the final turn.
Calandagan won the 2025 Japan Cup in 2:20.3, which JRA lists as the current 2400 metre turf course record at Tokyo as of February 2026.
Where the Japan Cup fits in the season
The Japan Cup sits near the end of the international turf calendar and often brings together horses with form from major championship events. OTB Bet will update this hub as official nominations, overseas invitations and the final field become available.
For more international championship coverage, visit the Melbourne Cup guide, Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe guide and the Breeders’ Cup hub. The broader season map is available in the Major Races center.
Sources: Japan Racing Association, official 2026 Japan Cup race information and Japan Cup international program.