Tomakomai Steps Up Efforts for Hokkaido Casino Bid

Tomakomai, located in Hokkaido’s central-southern coastal region, is intensifying its efforts to secure an integrated resort with a casino. This week, Mayor Suguru Kanazawa told reporters that the city intends to make the most of the current opportunity, especially as national policies around casino resorts become clearer. With promotional initiatives already planned for fiscal year 2026, Tomakomai is presenting itself as a proactive partner in Hokkaido’s renewed push for an IR.

City Budget Supports IR Push

Mayor Kanazawa emphasized that the integrated resort initiative is included in the city’s draft budget for the coming year, highlighting that the plan goes beyond discussion to tangible commitment. He noted that moves by the central government have clarified the steps needed, prompting Tomakomai to intensify its efforts alongside the prefecture. The mayor also stressed that the city views this as a strategic window of opportunity it intends to seize.

For Tomakomai, the project carries significant local importance. Kanazawa pointed out that an integrated resort would bring benefits not just to the city but to the entire Hokkaido region. As such, Tomakomai plans to work with the prefecture while simultaneously pursuing independent initiatives to enhance its chances of being selected as an IR host city.

Hokkaido Re-enters the IR Race

Hokkaido prefecture is actively aiming to host a casino resort, preparing for the next national application round. The prefecture had expressed interest during Japan’s first IR process but withdrew in late 2019. With new regulations in place, Hokkaido is ready to participate in round two, while Tomakomai is also gearing up. The national government has set the timeframe for applications from May 6 to November 5, 2027. In the previous round, MGM Osaka won the only approved IR project, valued at JPY1.51 trillion ($9.57 billion) and slated for completion by 2030. While only one winner emerged, the project has set a precedent that other cities, including Tomakomai, now hope to follow.

Economic Case for Tomakomai

Kanazawa’s bid frames an integrated resort as a catalyst for growth, aiming to attract investment, tourism and jobs, with broader benefits for Hokkaido. By collaborating with the prefecture and pursuing city-led initiatives, Tomakomai maintains strategic flexibility. Prefectural oversight covers regulatory issues, while city-driven efforts highlight local advantages, such as coastal location, connectivity and proximity to existing tourist routes. Preliminary steps, including site scouting and initial discussions with operators, indicate that Tomakomai is actively preparing for the bid.

Rising Regional Competition

Tomakomai is not alone in gearing up for the next IR round. Aichi Prefecture has also announced intentions to apply. With the May 2027 deadline approaching, Hokkaido will need to move decisively to meet submission requirements.

Mayor Kanazawa’s public statements underline Tomakomai’s long-term commitment. While a successful selection is not guaranteed, the city is signaling that it will pursue the integrated resort bid vigorously, leveraging both prefectural support and independent city initiatives.