The city of Aichi has begun preparations to re-enter the bidding process for integrated resorts in Japan. The region, located in the center of the country, intends to compete for a license to develop an integrated resort with a casino.
According to local media reports, Aichi is among the few regions that have shown interest in the new round of applications. This move follows a period of internal analysis and review of administrative priorities. Governor Hideaki Omura is expected to officially announce the decision to seek the license soon.
Why did Aichi decide to resume the bidding process for an integrated resort?
The decision represents a significant shift in the region’s strategy. Initially, Aichi considered participating in the first round, but opted not to submit a formal proposal. At the time, the administration cited the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic as a determining factor for withdrawing in 2022.
The city government plans to submit applications between May and November 2027. The timeline follows the announcement by the Japan Tourism Agency, which confirmed the opening of a new application window during that period.
Furthermore, Aichi is not acting in isolation. Hokkaido has also confirmed its intention to submit an application for an Integrated Resort (IR). Thus, both became the first regions to formalize plans after the central government reopened the process.
Local information indicates that the project may occupy reclaimed land near Chubu Centrair International Airport. The terminal serves as a regional logistics hub and could increase the attractiveness of the development for domestic and international visitors.
To gauge market interest, the Aichi Prefectural Government will launch a Request for Information (RFI). This initiative aims to assess developer appetite before a formal bidding process is eventually opened. The results will then guide the next steps.
Governor Omura, currently in his fourth term, is expected to publicly detail the renewed plans. He had previously expressed support for obtaining an Integrated Resort license to boost the local economy and tourism.
Status of integrated resort licensing in Japan
The national government has established a new registration window between May 6, 2027, and November 5, 2027. This measure follows the guidelines of the Integrated Resorts Law, approved in 2018, which regulated casino development in Japan.
According to local media, the current model provides for the issuance of three licenses. Two remain available for interested regions.
While Aichi and Hokkaido resume their plans, Nagasaki is also expected to participate in the next round. In contrast, Wakayama has decided not to submit a bid in this new cycle.
In the first round, Osaka secured the only approval. The MGM-ORIX consortium has begun construction on the MGM Osaka IR project, valued at US$10 billion. The project is scheduled to open in 2030.
With the resumption of the process, Aichi seeks to position itself in the competition for one of the remaining licenses. Its proximity to Chubu Centrair International Airport could strengthen its bid.
