Japan Restarts Application for Integrated Resort Licenses; Aiming for Two New Gambling Hubs by 2027
By: Lucas Dunn | 05/08/2025 01:08 ⚙️🌐Photo by Pexels, CC0 1.0
Hey there, gamblers! It's your pal Lucas Dunn, here to spill the tea on Japan's casino scene. I got seasoned in the world of casino, software provider, and game reviews, news, and blogs, with more than six years of experience under my belt. I've worked with clients from all around the globe—the US, UK, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Canada, and beyond!
Before diving into this casino-tastic adventure, I spent a bit of time at Rutgers University pursuing a degree in psychology, just for kicks. And when I decided the world of academia wasn't my jam, I chucked it all and became a painter, following in my father's footsteps. Nowadays, I write full-time, with the paintbrush coming out every once in a while! 🎨
Key Points to Remember
- One and Only: At present, only one integrated resort (IR) license, the MGM Osaka project, has been given the green light. Construction is underway with an expected grand opening in 2030. 🏗️
- New Opportunities: Hokkaido and Tokyo signal a renewed interest in securing licenses for potential casino projects.
- Speeding Things Up: The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission plans to reopen the bidding for two more licenses to have up to two new casinos up and running by the end of 2027. 🚀
The Next Game Changers
Hokkaido: A Potential Casinopolis 🎲
Despite initially postponing their application certification, Hokkaido remains a candidate for future IR development. The region's charming, picturesque landscapes might just be the perfect backdrop for a high-stakes casino paradise! ⛳️🌲
Tokyo: And the Capital Loses its Cool 💸🌃
Tokyo is seriously considering entering the casino race, which could have a massive impact on Japan's casino landscape, given its enormous population and economic clout. Just imagine the non-stop action in Tokyo's neon-lit streets! 🎲🏙️
Smoother Sailing Ahead
- IR District Development Plans: Regions interested in hosting casinos are expected to present comprehensive plans for developing IR Districts, in line with Japan's casino legislation.
- Feedback from the People: August 2025 will see a public comment period, focusing on a cabinet order that outlines the new IR application process. 🗣️
With these developments, it's clear that Japan is steaming full speed ahead, ready to expand its casino industry and entertaining millions of gamblers worldwide! 🎉🎭 But remember, regulatory challenges and public sentiment could be potential speed bumps in this exciting journey!
Stay tuned for more updates from me, and don't forget to spin that roulette wheel! 🎳✨
Sources:
- Japan Casinos, Inc., Oct 12, 2022. IR Expo Report: What's New in 2022
- Bloomberg, Oct 25, 2022. Japan Plans to Consider IR Bid by Tokyo After Osaka Project
- The Japan Times, Nov 9, 2022. Reform of Japan's Casino Bill set for Submission to Diet
- AP News, Nov 10, 2022. MGM's Integrated Resort Casino Moves Forward in Japan
- GGRAsia, Oct 26, 2022. Tokyo sets eyes on casino plan, sees total of 3 or more IRs in Japan
- In the vibrant cityscape of Tokyo, you could potentially be enjoying the excitement of sports betting, free spins, or even hitting a jackpot at one of the upcoming casinos, as Japan's capital expresses interest in entering the casino race.
- While Hokkaido initially held back on their application certification, the region's breathtaking landscapes could soon provide the perfect setting for gamblers to seek their luck with sports betting, free spins, and more, as Hokkaido remains a candidate for future casino development.
