Japan Casinos: Aichi Eyes 2027 Casino Resort Application Window

Aichi prefecture may return to Japans integrated resort race as national government prepares the next casino application window. Local media reports on Thursday indicate the prefectural government plans to resume efforts to host an integrated resort featuring a casino.

Good to Know

• Next Japan IR application window runs May 6 to November 5, 2027
• Proposed site sits on reclaimed land near Chubu Centrair International Airport
• Only Osaka has secured approval so far under the 2018 Integrated Resort Act

National government released a draft Cabinet order in December outlining the likely timeline for the next round of integrated resort applications. Communities seeking to host a casino resort can apply between May 6, 2027 and November 5 that year. Window reopens debate across Japan about where large scale casino resorts may take shape.

Aichi appears ready to test investor appetite before making a final commitment. Reports suggest prefectural officials will launch a request for information to gauge interest from potential developers and global casino operators. After reviewing responses, leaders will decide whether to submit a formal bid.

Proposed location centers on reclaimed land currently used by Chubu Centrair International Airport, one of the main air hubs in central Japan. Airport proximity often plays a key role in integrated resort strategy, as international visitor access supports hotel, convention, and gaming revenue.

Under the 2018 Integrated Resort Act, lawmakers envisioned up to three IR developments nationwide during the first liberalization phase. Process moved slowly. Only Osaka secured approval and continues to advance MGM Osaka, a large scale project expected to open in 2030.

Aichi previously explored participation during the initial application round but stepped back in 2022. Governor Hideaki Omura cited disruption linked to the Covid 19 pandemic as the main reason for withdrawing at the time. Pandemic uncertainty affected tourism forecasts, investor confidence, and public sentiment around large entertainment complexes.

Now serving a fourth term, Omura is expected to hold a press briefing soon to outline renewed interest in pursuing an integrated resort project. Local reports did not cite sources but indicate momentum is building inside the prefectural government.

Japan casino policy remains closely watched by global gaming operators. Integrated resorts combine hotels, convention centers, retail, entertainment venues, and limited casino gaming under strict regulatory oversight. Central government approval process includes detailed background checks, financial capability reviews, and long term economic impact assessments.

Search activity around Japan IR application 2027, Aichi casino resort plan, Integrated Resort Act, and Chubu Centrair IR site has increased following release of the draft timeline. Developers that missed out during the first round may view a new window as a fresh opportunity.

Public opinion in Japan toward casino legalization has remained mixed. Supporters point to tourism growth, job creation, and foreign investment. Critics often raise concerns around problem gambling and social impact. Local government backing and national level approval both remain critical for any proposal to move forward.

Aichi next steps depend on response to the request for information. If global operators show strong interest, prefectural leaders may advance toward a formal application in 2027. If feedback proves limited, officials could reassess strategy before committing resources to a full scale bid.

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