Hokkaido Opens Research Tender for Japan Casino Resort

Hokkaido has started a bidding process for research tied to a possible integrated resort with a casino. The step keeps the prefecture in the conversation ahead of Japans second round of IR applications in 2027.

Good to Know

• The research contract would run through January 29, 2027.
• Hokkaido plans to revise its basic IR stance by autumn and name a recommended location.
• Tomakomai remains the only city in the prefecture to publicly back an IR.

Hokkaido Starts Formal IR Research Work

The selected provider will build an overall development schedule and carry out surveys and analysis tied to a possible casino resort in Hokkaido. That work includes testing whether a large-scale IR makes sense in the prefecture, interviewing three IR operators, reviewing a business model that fits Hokkaido, and joining expert panel meetings organized by the prefectural government.

The provider will also prepare reports based on those discussions. In February, Hokkaido set aside JPY9.98 million, about US$62,439, for IR research and review in its fiscal 2026 draft budget.

Timing matters here. A national Cabinet Order confirmed on March 10 that local governments can submit second-round IR applications from May through November 2027. Any prefecture that wants to move ahead will need a commercial partner for its IR District Development Plan before sending it to central authorities.

Hokkaido now wants more structure before making that call. By autumn, prefectural officials plan to update the basic stance on IR and include a recommended site for any future casino complex.

So far, Tomakomai has been the only city in Hokkaido to publicly show interest in hosting an IR. That keeps the port city in focus as the review continues, although the prefecture has not made a final decision.

FAQ

What did Hokkaido announce?

Hokkaido launched a bidding process to choose a service provider for research on a possible integrated resort with a casino.

How long will the contract run?

The contract period would run from signing through January 29, 2027.

What will the research cover?

The work includes feasibility analysis, interviews with three IR operators, business model review, and support for expert panel meetings.

Has Hokkaido chosen a location yet?

No. The prefecture plans to revise its IR stance by autumn and name a recommended location then.

Which city has shown public interest so far?

Tomakomai is the only city in Hokkaido that has publicly supported hosting a casino resort.

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