The Osaka city government has announced plans to sell approximately 500,000 square meters of prime land at the center of the former 2025 World Exposition site, according to the Japan Times.Â
The proposed development aims to complement the integrated resort currently under construction on the adjacent MGM Osaka site.
The city, in collaboration with the Osaka prefectural government, has solicited development concepts from the private sector and selected two outstanding proposals. Officials plan to formally invite applications from developers around spring 2026. The development project is intended to carry forward the expo’s core philosophy while ensuring compatibility with the neighboring integrated resort.
Among the leading proposals, one envisions the construction of a racing circuit and a large-scale arena, while the other outlines a world-class luxury resort featuring a water park. Both concepts are considered highly compatible with the IR project. There is also growing momentum behind efforts to bring Formula 1 racing to Osaka, which could further enhance the site’s appeal as an entertainment destination.
The Osaka IR is scheduled to open around autumn 2030 as Japan’s first large-scale complex to incorporate a casino. Expectations are high that the development will attract affluent international visitors and catalyze regional economic growth.
The 2025 World Exposition, held over 6 months through October 13th, 2025, on Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka Bay, drew more than 25 million ticketed visitors.
