While gambling in Japan has historically been classified as a restricted activity, things seem set to change drastically in the near future. The changes on the horizon will allow citizens of Japan more freedom in terms of access to brick-and-mortar casinos, as well as online gambling activities. The new legislation is coming into effect with the help of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Since gambling is one of the most profitable industries in the world, Japan casino license modifications will allow casino operators and local governments to capitalize on profits through integrated resorts.

What are Integrated Resorts?

Many people refer to an integrated resort as a ‘casino resort’ because these two terms are essentially describing the same thing. An integrated resort (IR) is a complex property that comprises a variety of hotel accommodations, high-class retail facilities, plenty of restaurants, convention centers, and there will often be an amusement park. These resorts offer a variety of entertainment to visitors, such as gambling at the casino and live entertainment shows. So if you were looking for a reason to visit Japan, then this is one of them.

Are There Gambling Alternatives?

Gambling in Japan has always been a gray area. The reason for the confusion is that the laws against gambling are quite strict, even though there are almost no recorded cases of citizens been fined for not adhering to the laws. Adding to the uncertainty is the fact that certain gambling activities are legal. These include horse racing, various motorsports, pachinko, and the lottery.

Despite the fact that online gambling licenses have never been awarded in Japan, there are plenty of casino operators that allow players from Japan to play. It might be trickier for citizens to find these reputable online casino sites, but pikachucasinos.com lists some of the best slot casinos available. Players from Japan can select any one of the online casinos listed and be assured of an entertaining round on the slots. Many of the casinos also have Live Dealer games, progressive jackpots, and table games.

How Many Integrated Resorts?

According to the Integrated Resort Development Act and the Integrated Resort Promotion Act, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism can approve a maximum of three integrated resort plans nationwide. A Local government of a large city will have to submit an application if it wishes to vie for the opportunity to have an integrated resort built-in that territory.

While three seems like a small number, these types of resorts require vast amounts of resources to establish, and the number could be increased in the future. The Integrated Resort Development Act was passed in 2018, making it relatively new. It can be found on the National Printing Bureau’s website where any updates will likely also be made available as they are released.

Who are the Key Players?

We are still waiting patiently for the official list of territories and resort partners. The bids are only expected to be finalized in 2021. The delay has been compounded by the fact that COVID-19 has made it difficult for potential partners to travel. According to Reuters, the potential bidders include Yokohama, Tokyo, and Osaka.

Reuters also states that one of the forerunners in the bidding competition, Las Vegas Sands, recently retracted its application. The retracement came as a surprise to many stakeholders, as the Las Vegas Sands group has already developed many casino resort facilities throughout Asia and the US. The retraction of Las Vegas Sands left the MGM group is the current leading potential bidder.

Closing Thoughts

The development of integrated casino resorts will almost certainly increase tourist activity in Japan and increase the economic profits and public finance in the country. Byproducts of these developments could see the gambling laws in Japan becoming more relaxed, offering Japanese residents more opportunity to gamble online freely. The COVID-19 pandemic might have slowed the changes, but casino gambling seems sure to come to Japan.

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