Japan could launch a fresh round of bidding for casino licenses later this year, with the goal of approving two additional integrated resorts by the end of 2027.
According to a Tuesday report from Hokkaido Shimbun, the government is exploring ways to fully leverage the 2018 law that allows for up to three casino resorts nationwide. Only one project — MGM Osaka — has been approved so far.
The report notes that during an informal survey conducted in November last year, several prefectures expressed renewed interest in pursuing a casino bid, including Hokkaido, which previously postponed its certification application.
Tokyo — the nation’s capital and one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas — is also reportedly revisiting the possibility of hosting an integrated resort.
Tokyo Could Transform Japan’s Casino Outlook
When Japan first initiated its integrated resort process in 2019, despite delays caused by the pandemic and regulatory uncertainty, Tokyo was long seen as the ultimate prize. With a metropolitan population of more than 37 million, the city represents one of the most attractive gaming markets in the world.
However, Tokyo was always considered unlikely to approve a casino project, pushing operators to shift their focus to Yokohama. But stiff local opposition there, combined with Tokyo’s perceived reluctance, eventually led major global operators to withdraw from Japan entirely.
If Tokyo now signals genuine interest, it could trigger a fierce bidding war among leading casino companies, especially given the limited expansion opportunities outside Las Vegas, Macau, and Singapore. The appeal is further amplified by the fact that licensing in Macau and Singapore won’t open again for years.
Hokkaido Could Attract Major Contenders
Though not as populous as Tokyo, Hokkaido still boasts 5.1 million residents — a larger population than many U.S. casino markets.
The prefecture previously drew strong interest from major operators such as Hard Rock International, Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE), and Rush Street Japan. Yet hurdles remain. Concerns about environmental impacts and political divisions within Hokkaido’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party have historically slowed progress, and similar challenges may resurface in any new bid.
As Japan explores adding two more integrated resorts, both Tokyo and Hokkaido could play pivotal roles in shaping the country’s long-term casino landscape.
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