Authorities in Japan’s Hokkaido have launched a formal process to appoint a research partner to the prefecture, as it reconsiders plans to develop an integrated resort (IR) featuring a casino, signalling a careful but notable step forward.

According to details released on 23 March 2026, the selected service provider will work with the prefectural government from the date of contract signing until 29 January 2027. The role is centred on assessing whether such a project would be viable and how it could realistically be delivered.

The scope of work includes planning an overall schedule and conducting various surveys and studies on the potential for a casino resort in the region. This involves analysing tourism demand, infrastructure capacity, and other economic factors that development could generate.
 

Seeking private partnership

A key part of the process is engaging with private sector operators. The appointed firm is expected to interview three IR operators to better understand investment appetite, operational challenges, and expectations within Japan’s tightly regulated market.

Officials are also seeking a business model tailored specifically to Hokkaido. Unlike larger urban centres, the prefecture faces different conditions, including a colder climate and a more seasonal tourism base. As a result, authorities appear keen to avoid simply replicating models used elsewhere.

For comparison, Japan’s first approved IR is being developed in Osaka, a major metropolitan area with strong international visitor traffic. Hokkaido’s approach is expected to reflect its own local characteristics rather than follow the same path.

The selected provider will also take part in expert panel discussions organised by the prefectural government. These meetings are likely to bring together policymakers, tourism specialists and industry figures. Findings from these discussions will be compiled into reports to support decision-making.

The prefecture plans to revise its official “basic stance” on IR development by autumn 2026. This updated position is expected to outline whether Hokkaido intends to move forward with a bid and could also identify a preferred location for any future project.
 

Tomakomai races ahead in IR race

So far, Tomakomai has been the only city within the prefecture to publicly express interest in hosting a casino resort. Located on the southern coast, the port city has previously been seen as a potential candidate due to its transport links and available land.

Funding for the research has already been set aside. In February, the prefecture allocated JPY9.98 million ($62,000) in its draft budget for the 2026 fiscal year. The relatively modest amount reflects the early stage of the process, which is focused on analysis rather than construction.

At the national level, Japan is preparing for a second round of IR applications. A Cabinet order, confirmed earlier this month, stated that local governments will be able to submit bids between May and November 2027.

Any proposal from Hokkaido would need to be developed in partnership with private operators and submitted as part of an IR District Development Plan for approval by central authorities.

For now, officials appear to be taking a measured approach, focusing on research and consultation as they weigh the possible economic gains against the regulatory and social considerations involving casino development.

 

 

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