Japan Evaluates New Bidding Round for Integrated Casino Resorts
Japan.- March 12, 2026 www.zonadeazar.com The Japanese government is evaluating a new bidding round for the development of integrated resorts with casinos (IRs), a move that could accelerate the expansion of the country’s casino sector after years of limited progress.
The initiative would allow prefectures and designated cities to submit proposals to compete for two additional integrated resort licences under the country’s regulatory framework.
Overview
Japan authorized integrated resorts through legislation enacted in 2018, which allows the construction of large-scale tourism complexes combining casinos with hotels, convention centres, entertainment venues and leisure attractions.
The law permits up to three casino resorts nationwide, although only one project has been approved so far.
That project is MGM Osaka, currently under construction through a partnership between MGM Resorts International and Orix Corporation, with an expected opening in 2030.
Details and context
The Japanese government confirmed that the new application window will run from May to November 2027, allowing local authorities to submit development plans for integrated resort projects.
To participate, prefectures must present an IR district development plan in partnership with a private operator, which will then be evaluated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
Several regions are already studying the possibility of submitting bids, including Hokkaido, Aichi and Nagasaki, all of which have previously expressed interest in hosting casino resorts.
Future outlook
The new bidding round could represent a major step in Japan’s strategy to develop its casino tourism sector, considered one of the most promising in Asia due to the country’s economic scale and tourism potential.
Industry experts believe Japan aims to follow models similar to Singapore’s integrated resort strategy, where casinos operate as part of broader tourism ecosystems.
If the process moves forward as planned, Japan could approve two additional integrated resorts, gradually expanding its regulated casino market.
EditĂł: @MaiaDigital www.zonadeazar.com