Hokkaido is once again exploring the possibility of hosting a casino resort, nearly six years after Governor Naomichi Suzuki halted earlier plans.Â
According to The Japan Times, the Hokkaido government in August conducted a survey of municipalities to gauge interest in developing an integrated resort (IR), reigniting speculation about the northern island’s role in Japan’s long-delayed casino expansion.
The renewed discussions come as Japan’s first IR, led by MGM Resorts and Orix in Osaka Prefecture, moves toward its planned 2030 opening. The multibillion-dollar project will feature a casino alongside hotels, shopping facilities, and convention space. With Osaka securing the country’s sole license to date, Hokkaido’s latest moves suggest local leaders are positioning themselves should additional approvals be granted.
Tomakomai, a port city south of New Chitose Airport, has reemerged as a frontrunner. Mayor Hirofumi Iwakura confirmed that the city responded positively to the government’s inquiry, emphasizing its existing infrastructure, proximity to international transport links, and potential to drive inbound tourism. Tomakomai previously advanced a proposal in 2019 but withdrew after environmental concerns and time constraints prevented a formal bid.
Kushiro, in eastern Hokkaido, has also expressed interest. Mayor Hidenori Tsuruma has argued that a resort could help transform Lake Akan into a major tourist hub. He has pointed to global examples of Indigenous involvement in gaming ventures, suggesting that local Ainu communities could potentially be included in such a project.
Another municipality, Hakodate, indicated that while it has no concrete plans, it is currently gathering information on the possibility of participating in a future bid.
Governor Suzuki has acknowledged that circumstances have shifted since 2019. While only Osaka has secured approval, he noted that the central government had originally envisioned up to three IR sites. He described a casino resort as a possible driver of private investment and tourism spending, while also highlighting the need to address environmental and social concerns, including gambling addiction.
Any Hokkaido bid would require municipal approval, followed by endorsement from the governor, before advancing to the central government for consideration. Even if a bid is launched, the process is expected to take years, with no certainty that Hokkaido will ultimately secure a license.
