Japan’s Aichi Prefecture launched a Request for Proposals on Tuesday, signaling its renewed pursuit of an integrated resort license. This move positions the region for the second bidding round opening in 2027, after missing the first due to Covid-19 disruptions. Success here could transform Chubu Centrair International Airport into a hub for international tourism and MICE events.
Japan's Turbulent Path to Integrated Resorts
Japan legalized integrated resorts a decade ago through the 2016 Integrated Resort Promotion Act, followed by 2018 legislation designating resort areas. The first bidding round in 2023 attracted only two applications for three available licenses; MGM Resorts International and Orix Corp secured approval for a $10.2 billion project on Osaka’s Yumeshima Island, which broke ground in April 2025 and aims to open in 2030. Authorities rejected a Casinos Austria and Nagasaki proposal over financing issues, while pandemic delays, slow deliberations, and strict regulations like gaming space limits stalled broader progress.
Aichi's Prime Location and Evaluation Framework
Aichi targets a site at Chubu Centrair International Airport, a manmade island near Nagoya boasting connections to 20 regional and international destinations including Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines. Gaming analyst Andrew Klebanow describes it as “literally near ideal,” citing an eight-minute walk from baggage claim to the site, a nearby ferry terminal, an underutilized convention center, and thousands of spare hotel rooms. Governor Hideaki Omura views the project as vital to counter population decline and boost tourism, with the airport seeking to double capacity to 20 million passengers by 2030.
Prospects Amid Political Momentum
The prefecture will score proposals on a 1,000-point scale, prioritizing international tourism contributions (450 points), operational stability (250 points), and adverse effect mitigation (150 points). Applications open from 6 May through 5 November 2027. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, elected last October and a follower of IR advocate Shinzo Abe, bolsters hopes, as does the new Casino Regulatory Commission convened last December. Aichi’s lack of local opposition and focus on economic impact could make it a frontrunner.
