Japan is expected to open a second integrated resort bidding round on 6 May 2027, with proposals due by 5 November, according to the report. The Japan Tourism Agency is also seeking public comments through 16 January 2026; two of the three permits authorised in 2018 remain unissued.
Potential applicants and prefectures have a defined window to prepare proposals for Japan’s remaining resort permits.
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Oto town plans to submit its integrated resort proposal to Fukuoka prefecture in October and seek prefectural assembly consideration in December, Mayor Joji Nagahara said. The town needs prefectural backing to advance the proposal as Japan prepares to accept new IR applications in 2027.
Aichi Prefecture has launched a request for proposals as it considers an integrated resort bid in Japan, according to the report. The prefecture selected a site at Chubu Centrair International Airport; applications for the country’s second bidding window are due from 6 May through 5 November 2027.
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 Prefecture said three foreign casino operators and 12 domestic companies responded to its inquiry about a possible integrated resort. Japan is expected to hold a second casino bidding round in 2027, while Hokkaido, Wakayama and Sasebo have expressed interest in potential developments.
Universal Entertainment said it had made no decision on joining Japan’s second integrated resort bidding round, scheduled from May to November 2027. In a summary of its 27 March shareholders meeting, the company said it had acknowledged the opportunity but remained cautious about consortium participation and investment structure.