Hokkaido Set to Present Draft Paper on Integrated Resort

Hokkaido Prefecture is preparing to present a draft position paper on November 26, signalling renewed consideration for an integrated resort (IR) that would include a casino. While no specific location is officially named, the documents highlight Tomakomai as the frontrunner and outline key criteria, social safeguards and economic objectives for a potential bid.

The paper will cover four areas: the overall goal of establishing an IR, the intended functions and capacity of the resort, evaluation of potential sites and measures to mitigate social harms associated with gambling. These plans build on a recent survey of all 179 municipalities in Hokkaido, which gathered local opinions on the IR initiative.

The timing coincides with reports that Japan may reopen its IR application window as early as 2026, with prefectures such as Hokkaido and Nagasaki emerging as potential new applicants. Hokkaido did not participate in the initial 2019 round, while Nagasaki failed to secure approval due to financial concerns. Support from Japan’s pro-IR Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has reportedly encouraged the tourism ministry to actively promote IR policy as part of regional growth strategies.

Local sentiment appears broadly supportive, particularly around Tomakomai, which is valued for its airport access and natural surroundings. The proposed IR is envisioned as more than a gambling venue, functioning as a tourism and entertainment hub with strong social safeguards. Other municipalities, including Hakodate, have expressed interest but are currently less committed to pursuing a bid.

The draft reflects lessons from Osaka, where the MGM Osaka resort developed by MGM Resorts International with Japanese partners including Orix Corp is set to open in 2030. Hokkaido aims to leverage best practices from Osaka while tailoring safeguards to its environmental and social priorities.

The position paper’s presentation to the prefectural assembly will mark the next step in Hokkaido’s deliberations. The prefecture’s decisions in the coming months will shape the region’s approach to integrated resorts and highlight how local communities, economic development and social responsibility are balanced in Japan’s evolving casino landscape.