Japan prepares to open bidding for two additional integrated resorts

Japan is preparing to accept proposals for two additional integrated resorts following cabinet approval of legal revisions tied to a new bidding framework, according to Nikkei Asia. Under the current law enacted in 2018, the national government can approve up to three integrated resorts. However, only the Osaka project has been certified to date. It received approval in 2023 and is scheduled to open in autumn 2030.

Japan aims to attract 60 million international visitors by 2030 with annual tourist spending reaching JP¥15trn (US$95.2bn). Officials believe that expanding integrated resorts beyond Osaka could help distribute tourism more evenly across the country.

During the previous application window, which ran from late 2021 to spring 2022, Nagasaki submitted a proposal that was later rejected due to concerns about financing clarity. Yokohama and Wakayama also explored bids but halted plans amid public resistance driven by fears over gambling addiction and broader local impact.

The new bidding period will run from May to November 2027. Several regions have already begun preparing. Aichi prefecture is assessing the feasibility of an integrated resort on a 50 hectare site near Chubu Centrair International Airport, reviving discussions that were paused during the pandemic. Governor Hideaki Omura said the project could serve as a strategic draw for international visitors.

Hokkaido has also renewed interest. After shelving an earlier bid due to environmental concerns, the prefecture convened an expert panel in January to revisit the opportunity. Cities including Tomakomai and Hakodate have indicated potential interest while the Hokkaido Economic Federation has engaged local businesses through workshops.

Tokyo continues long term consideration of an integrated resort, funding exploratory research annually since 2015. Despite strong operator interest from global companies, officials acknowledge that such developments require substantial capital. Osaka’s project, for example, has seen projected costs rise from JP¥1.08trn to JP¥1.51trn.

Industry analysts note that viable integrated resorts may only succeed in major metropolitan areas with sufficient demand from domestic and international travellers.