The battle for licenses at Japan's Integrated Resorts (IR) is set to reignite after years of dormancy. The Japan Tourism Agency has confirmed that a six-month application window will open from May to November 2027 for the remaining two IR licenses. Aichi Prefecture Governor Hideaki Omura is expected to announce his candidacy soon—having been an advocate for IR in the first round, his plans were shelved due to the pandemic. Now, with the opportunity arising again, the candidate site remains locked on a prime parcel adjacent to Chubu Centrair International Airport, targeting international traffic. Simply put, missed out during the pandemic, now looking to catch up. Meanwhile, Hokkaido (partnering with Hard Rock International) and Nagasaki Prefecture are also expected to join the fray. Want to follow the latest bidding dynamics of Asian Integrated Resorts? PASA's official website continues to dissect IR policies and capital strategies of various countries.
One, Japan IR License: A decade-long marathon, two more tables left
In 2018, the Japanese Diet passed the IR Implementation Law, authorizing up to three integrated resorts nationwide. This policy, strongly advocated by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, aims to attract foreign investment and international tourists. However, the pandemic disrupted the rhythm, and by 2023 only one valid bid was received—MGM Resorts International and the Orix Group secured the Osaka Prefecture license, with the $10 billion integrated resort expected to open in 2030.
The remaining two licenses will reopen for applications in 2027, with a six-month window period giving local governments and overseas operators ample preparation time.
Two, Aichi Prefecture: Four-term governor re-enters the fray, airport site a trump card
Hideaki Omura had actively promoted Aichi's candidacy in the first round of bidding, but the plan was shelved due to the pandemic. This time, the candidate site still targets the area near Chubu Centrair International Airport, with clear advantages:
Convenient transportation: Direct access from the airport, international tourists arrive directly
Economic foundation: Strong industrial strength in the Nagoya area, ample business travelers
Local will: The governor himself has been re-elected four times, political momentum stable
If Aichi ultimately submits an application, it will become another IR project centered around an airport outside the Kansai (Osaka) area, competing with the Tokyo area for differentiation.
Three, Hokkaido & Nagasaki: Each with their own calculations, who will have the last laugh?
Besides Aichi, at least two other regions have clearly indicated or are expected to run:
•Hokkaido: Governor Naomichi Suzuki initially declined due to environmental concerns, but last year changed his stance, stating IR "could contribute to the development of Hokkaido," and has already partnered with Hard Rock International. Snow season tourism resources + international brand, targeting high-end leisure clientele.
•Nagasaki Prefecture: Submitted a proposal in the first round but was not approved, likely to make another attempt this time. The Huis Ten Bosch park in Sasebo City remains its core location.
A 2024 report by Savills described Japan's gambling industry as a "vast sea of opportunities," citing its "service reputation, social stability, proximity to prosperous economies, and well-developed infrastructure" as major attractions drawing high-spending tourists back.
Four, Prime Minister's support: Sanae Takaichi continues Abe's legacy
The current Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's supportive stance on IR adds political certainty to the new round of bidding. Elected in October last year, she immediately instructed the Commissioner of the Tourism Agency to "advance IR and achieve attractive stay-type tourism." The Japan Times noted that her phrasing continues the promise of her political mentor Shinzo Abe to "bring Japan back to the center of the world."
Political will + local enthusiasm + international capital, Japan's second round of IR battles is bound to be more intense than the first.
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