Japan Plans to Revise Casino Licensing Areas; Hokkaido and Tokyo Express Interest according to Report
Japan's gambling scene is heating up as the Land of the Rising Sun prepares to issue two more licenses for integrated resorts (IRs) with casinos by the end of 2027. This development follows the groundbreaking ceremony for the MGM Osaka project, Japan's first foray into the casino resort sector, which is expected to open around 2030[1][3][5].
Casinos Coming to Hokkaido and Tokyo?
Hokkaido, the northernmost prefecture of Japan, has expressed interest in securing an IR license. heavy hitters like Hard Rock International, Mohegan Gaming, and Rush Street have previously shown interest in building a resort there[1][3]. Japan's capital, Tokyo, is also rumored to reconsider its bid, thanks to its massive population, infrastructure, and position as the country's main international gateway[1][3].
The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission aims to reopen the application process this year (2025) with hopes of awarding up to two more IR licenses by the end of 2027[1][3][4]. New projects might take several years to take shape after Japan's first IR in Osaka opens.
Boosting Japan's Economy
The Osaka IR, led by MGM Resorts and ORIX, is projected to be a major economic driver, with annual revenues estimated at around ¥520 billion (around USD 3.6 billion). It's projected to attract around 6 million international tourists and 14 million domestic visitors annually[5]. If the Osaka IR succeeds, experts believe it will encourage the development of additional resorts, revitalizing tourism, hospitality, retail, and convention sectors[1].
The integrated resorts are expected to create tens of thousands of jobs directly and indirectly while supporting urban redevelopment initiatives, especially on Yumeshima island and adjacent Expo 2025 sites[5].
Impact on the iGaming Industry
While the IRs focus on physical casinos, the scale and appeal of these mega-resorts may challenge online betting platforms, driving innovation and complementary offerings in Japan's iGaming sector[1]. The integrated resorts might also catalyze regulatory clarity and expansion in Japan’s online gaming and sports betting markets as large casino operators often have interests in both online and offline gaming[1].
With Hokkaido and Tokyo emerging as frontrunners for IR licenses, it's shaping up to be an exciting future for Japan's burgeoning casino industry. Stay tuned for more updates!
- Hokkaido and Tokyo are considered frontrunners for securing integrated resort (IR) licenses with casinos, following Japan's decision to issue two more IR licenses by the end of 2027.
- Companies like Hard Rock International, Mohegan Gaming, and Rush Street have expressed interest in building casinos in Hokkaido.
- The potential for tens of thousands of jobs and urban redevelopment initiatives, especially on Yumeshima island and adjacent Expo 2025 sites, is a significant draw for both Hokkaido and Tokyo.
- The success of the Osaka IR, set to open around 2030, could lead to a redefinition of Japan's sports, tourism, hospitality, retail, and convention sectors, as well as innovation in the iGaming sector due to competition with physical casinos.
