Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki said the prefecture plans to revise its position on an integrated resort including a casino by autumn 2026. The draft fiscal 2026 budget includes JPY9.98 million for research and review; any decision to proceed would require a development plan submitted to Japan’s national government.
The review could determine whether Hokkaido prepares a formal resort proposal and later invites private-sector bids.
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Hokkaido’s IR expert panel presented lawmakers with a revised draft on 16 July, adding measures to address objections as the prefecture considers a bid for an integrated resort. The proposals include tighter entry controls and counselling and treatment links; Hokkaido has not decided whether to proceed.
Hokkaido announced a tender on 23 March for research into whether to pursue an integrated resort with a casino. The selected provider will assess feasibility, interview three IR operators and help prepare a development schedule; the contract is due to run through 29 January 2027.
Hokkaido said three overseas integrated resort operators and 12 domestic companies responded to questionnaires on potential investor interest. The prefecture will begin considering candidate locations, but has not decided whether to pursue a bid or selected a site. It plans to present draft IR documents to the assembly next month and expects to finalise them in October.
Ōtō Mayor Joji Nagahara asked Fukuoka prefecture to prepare an integrated resort application ahead of Japan’s 6 May to 5 November 2027 window. He urged the prefectural assembly to decide during its December session, while Governor Seitaro Hattori cited the time needed for planning, developer selection and public consultation.
Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said the MGM Osaka casino resort remains compliant with its approved development plan. As the project moves towards its planned 2030 opening, the ministry called for consumer-demand estimates and plans for reinvestment.
The MGM Osaka casino resort still satisfies the conditions of its approved development plan, according to Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. With a 2030 opening targeted, the ministry sought consumer-demand estimates from the scheme's promoters, along with their reinvestment plans.