Japanese Governor Proposes Casino-Resort to Establish New International Tourism Hub

(AsiaGameHub) –   The governor of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture has announced plans to build a major integrated casino-resort (IR) on an artificial island in hopes of establishing an international tourism hub. However, the chances of success may be slim.

According to the Japanese newspaper Mainichi Shimbun, Aichi Governor Hideaki Omura stated that the resort would serve as an “international tourism hub.”

The proposed site is located adjacent to Chubu Centrair International Airport, near the city of Nagoya.

Chubu operates flights to various Asian destinations, including Beijing, Seoul, Taipei, Manila, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Shanghai.

Japanese Governor’s IR Dream

As the gambling market in Asia continues to expand, Tokyo has identified the IR sector as a key growth driver for the future.

The central government intends to approve three IR projects nationwide, with provinces required to submit their applications by the end of 2027.

However, opposition from local residents and anti-gambling advocates has led to a slow response.

So far, Tokyo has approved only one IR project: MGM Osaka, scheduled to open in 2030.

Aichi had initially considered submitting a bid in 2019 but suspended its efforts due to the coronavirus pandemic.

This year, however, Omura and his administration decided to revive the plan. Last month, the prefecture set a July 31 deadline for potential operators to submit bids.

Aichi aims to select a preferred operator between autumn 2026 and spring 2027.

Mainichi reported that since April, Aichi officials have been reviewing proposals from several operators.

Why Does Aichi Want to Build a Casino-Resort?

Omura’s initiative is reportedly driven by three main factors. First, no other regions besides Osaka have submitted proposals, meaning that if Aichi develops a strong plan before next year, it could face little resistance in gaining approval.

Second, attracting international tourists is a significant incentive for Aichi. The prefecture receives fewer foreign visitors compared to other major cities in Japan.

An increase in tourism, Omura believes, could help revitalize the local economy, which has suffered from population decline in recent years.

Lastly, Aichi is seeking stable funding sources. Officials expect revenue from the IR to provide substantial financial support, which could be used to develop medical and welfare policies.

Nevertheless, success remains uncertain, according to the newspaper.

Experts predict prolonged increases in construction materials and costs due to the “unstable international situation.”

This, along with other factors, has contributed to a “significant rise” in expenses related to Osaka’s IR project, they say.

Therefore, concerns persist within Aichi about whether reputable domestic or overseas businesses will be willing to undertake the “enormous initial investment” required to build an IR in the region.