Japan Relaunches Competition for Integrated Resort Permits; Aims to Establish Two Fresh Casino Centers by 2027
Let's Get Down to the Nitty-Gritty of Japan's Casino SceneBy: Lucas Dunn05/08/2025 01:08 World Photo by Pexels, CC0 1.0
The Scoop:
- MGM Osaka maintains its spot as the only approved casino IR in Japan
- Hokkaido and Tokyo express renewed enthusiasm for upcoming licenses
- Regulatory reforms seek to kickstart stalled casino projects
Meet Lucas, a Jersey-born copywriting whiz who juggles casino, software, and game reviews, news, and blogs. With a writing career spanning over six years, he's wowed clients across the globe, from the US to South Africa and beyond. Before he dived headfirst into the gaming world, Lucas earned a psychology degree at Rutgers University. And just to mix things up, he picked up painting—following in his old man's footsteps. Now, he writes full-time, with occasional brushes of paint to keep things interesting [wink]
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Dive Deeper
What's Up with the Casino Scene in Japan?
Japan is tiptoeing closer to implementing its first casino licenses as part of IR projects, which combine casinos with hotels, entertainment, and convention centers. The Casino Regulatory Commission is gearing up for this evolution, with leadership changes aimed at solidifying control[2].
The government has signed implementation agreements with certain operators, paving the way for the country's initial casino licenses. These licensees will operate under strict regulations to combat issues like money laundering, a problem that has plagued neighboring regions like Macau[1][5].
Tokyo Time
Though concrete details on Tokyo's casino licensing progress are scarce, the city—Japan's bustling capital—is seen as a prime contender for future IRs. Tokyo's regulatory strategy mirrors the nationwide framework set by the Casino Regulatory Commission. It's expected to follow similar licensing procedures, involving certification, governmental approval, and local agreements[3].
Making Waves in Hokkaido
The latest search results offer no fresh updates on Hokkaido's casino licensing. However, given its emphasis on tourism development, Hokkaido had been a potential destination for IRs earlier. For now, there's no news on current formal agreements or construction plans[3]. Regardless, expectations are that Hokkaido will adhere to the national regulatory framework, featuring strict measures like anti-money laundering controls and collaboration with local governments[3].
Extra Scoop
- Osaka's Yumeshima island IR serves as a blueprint for Japan's casino licensing process. MGM Resorts and local partners have sealed an Implementation Agreement with Osaka prefecture and city authorities. Construction for the resort is scheduled to start in 2025, targeting a 2030 grand opening[1]. This sets a precedent for other regions to follow.
- Japan places a heavy emphasis on prohibiting criminal activities in casinos, learning from past issues in Macau, such as strong anti-money laundering efforts[4].
- Recent data from the National Police Agency highlights rampant online gambling in Japan, indicating the government's growing focus on regulating all gambling arenas[2].
Wrapping it Up
| Region | Current Status | Next Steps / Outlook ||--------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------|| Tokyo | Bracing for licensing under national regulatory framework; a front-runner city | Pending formal agreements and certifications; ongoing regulatory refinements || Hokkaido | No recent updates on IRs or formal agreements | Expected to follow national framework; no established projects or licenses yet || National | Casino Regulatory Commission active; first licenses in play (e.g., Osaka IR moving forward) | Formal license issuance pending government approval; construction imminent in Osaka in 2025 |
In brief, Japan is making steady progress in its casino licensing and regulatory overhauls. Osaka is leading the charge, with Hokkaido and Tokyo showing renewed interest. So keep an eye out—this could be just the beginning! [smirk]
On his Japan-focused blog, Lucas Dunn reviews the potential for sports enthusiasts to enjoy free spins at casinos in Tokyo and Hokkaido. As these regions await formal licenses, the weather in these cities may impact the opening timelines for resorts offering sports betting and gaming attractions.
