Hokkaido has advanced its potential casino resort plans by releasing a proposed revision to its integrated resort policy that includes a call for the national government to relax size requirements for MICE and accommodation facilities.
The proposal, published on September 7th, outlines a resort-style integrated resort surrounded by Hokkaido’s distinct seasons and natural environment. The IR would serve as a hub directing visitors to destinations across the prefecture while supporting tourism and business links between Asia-Pacific, North America and Europe.
Under the framework, Hokkaido would first identify a candidate site and develop a basic concept before deciding whether to prepare an implementation policy, select an operator and submit an area development plan.
Each stage would require relevant conditions to be met, consultations with stakeholders and efforts to build public understanding. No candidate site has been selected, and the document does not confirm that Hokkaido will participate in Japan’s next IR application period, scheduled from May 6th to November 5th, 2027.
Separate questionnaires showed that two of three unnamed overseas IR operators expressed interest in Hokkaido, while all three saw competitive advantages in the prefecture. Twelve of 13 domestic IR-related companies also indicated interest.
Among Hokkaido’s 179 municipalities, Tomakomai expressed interest under the current facility requirements. Hakodate indicated some interest but remained undecided over whether the existing requirements were suitable.
The proposal also emphasizes measures addressing gambling addiction, money laundering, crime and other potential social impacts.
