Key Moments:
- Tomakomai has received support from several nearby municipalities as it declares its intention to apply to host an integrated resort with a casino.
- Kushiro, Chitose, and Shiraoi have all endorsed Tomakomai’s candidacy, with Kushiro seeking joint tourism initiatives if the resort proceeds.
- The Hokkaido prefectural assembly is set to evaluate its integrated resort policy in November, while national developments add momentum to the process.
Municipal Support Bolsters Tomakomai’s Bid
Tomakomai, located on Hokkaido’s central southern coast, has formally put forward its interest in joining the next round of national applications to host an integrated resort, including a casino. This move, now bolstered by endorsements from multiple neighboring areas, positions Tomakomai as a prominent contender for such a facility in Hokkaido.
According to information sourced from the Hokkaido prefectural government in a Yomiuri Shimbun report, Tomakomai has secured the approval of surrounding municipalities. Chitose, situated inland about a 30-minute drive to the north, supports the prospect—advocating for a location close to New Chitose Airport, the island’s main air portal and a regional transportation hub.
Kushiro city, which had previously been considered as a potential integrated resort site in 2018, has also thrown its support behind Tomakomai. Citing Tomakomai’s strong development framework, Kushiro plans to join forces in tourism marketing, positioning itself to attract visitors from the planned resort to its own extensive marshlands and wildlife watching destinations, along with local museums and seafood attractions.
Additionally, the neighboring town of Shiraoi, recognized for its lakes, hot springs, and Ainu culture museum, has become part of this network advocating for Tomakomai.
Tomakomai’s Strategic Advantages and Regional Dynamics
City officials in Tomakomai highlight its status as a transportation center with a major port and developing sectors tied to semiconductor manufacturing. Leaders believe that becoming an integrated resort host would give a significant boost to the local economy and foster continued industrial growth.
Elsewhere in Hokkaido, Hakodate has shown measured interest. The city acknowledges its direct connection to Honshu via high-speed rail and an undersea tunnel, but its mayor has indicated as of September that pursuing an integrated resort bid is not currently on the agenda.
Evolving Policy Landscape and Prospects Ahead
The Hokkaido prefectural government declined to participate in Japan’s original round of resort applications following a 2019 announcement by Governor Naomichi Suzuki. This year, however, signals potential change, with the prefectural assembly scheduled to review and potentially update its integrated resort policy stance in November.
Nationwide, the recent appointment of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, noted for her backing of integrated resort development, has re-energized discussions around a new bid cycle for casino resorts across Japan.
Osaka, the sole approved jurisdiction from the first application round that concluded in December 2023, is advancing with the MGM Osaka IR led by MGM Resorts International and Orix Corp. The project, located on Honshu’s southern central coast, broke ground in April of 2025 and its projected investment has climbed to JPY1.51 trillion, or US$10 billion. It is scheduled to open by the end of 2030.
With support from neighboring communities and an evolving regional outlook, Tomakomai is emerging as a key candidate for Hokkaido’s integrated resort bid, setting the stage for upcoming decisions at both the prefectural and national levels.
Overview of Key Regional Players
| Municipality | Support for Tomakomai IR Bid | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tomakomai | Lead applicant | Major port, transport hub, semiconductor industry |
| Chitose | Support | Proximity to New Chitose Airport |
| Kushiro | Support, joint marketing planned | Marshlands, bird watching, museums, seafood |
| Shiraoi | Support | Lakes, hot springs, Ainu culture museum |
| Hakodate | No active pursuit | Direct high-speed rail to Honshu |
- Author
Daniel Williams
