Japan, known for its rich culture, technological advancements, and stunning landscapes, is set to embark on a new journey with its first casino resort in Osaka. The government’s recent approval aims to boost tourism and the economy, but also raises concerns over responsible gambling.
Japan has long been known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and technological advancements. Now, the Land of the Rising Sun has another feather in its cap as it approved the construction of its first-ever casino resort in Osaka. The government approved the plan in 2021 as part of a larger effort to boost tourism and the economy.
The government of Japan has given the green light to the construction of the country’s first-ever casino resort in Osaka, a massive JPY1.08 trillion complex set to open in 2029. The resort, to be built on the reclaimed island of Yumeshima, will feature a casino, hotels, a conference center, shopping malls, a museum, a ferry terminal, and a private helicopter landing pad. MGM Resorts International and Japan-based Orix Corp. are leading the project, each owning a 40% stake, with 20 other companies holding the remaining 20% stakes. The resort is expected to generate JPY520 billion in revenues and attract 20 million visitors annually. However, there are concerns about the impact of gambling addiction and the need to ensure responsible gambling measures are in place.
The casino resort will be built on a 49-hectare site on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay. The site is currently a large industrial area, but the government plans to transform it into a world-class entertainment destination. The casino resort will be the centerpiece of the development, with hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment facilities built around it.
The resort is expected to cost over $10 billion and will be a joint venture between local businesses and international casino operators. The construction is set to begin in 2022 and is expected to take several years to complete. The casino is expected to open its doors to visitors in the mid-2020s.
One of the most exciting aspects of the casino resort is the potential for it to showcase Japanese culture to the world. The resort will feature traditional Japanese architecture and design, and will also offer visitors the chance to experience traditional Japanese hospitality, food, and entertainment. This will not only attract tourists but also help to preserve and promote Japanese culture.
However, the introduction of casinos in Japan has been controversial, with concerns raised about gambling addiction and the negative impact it could have on society. To address these concerns, the Japanese government has put in place strict regulations and measures to prevent gambling addiction and promote responsible gambling. These measures include limits on the number of visits to the casino, mandatory ID checks, and a requirement for casinos to offer counseling services to those who need it.
In conclusion, the approval of Japan’s first casino resort in Osaka is a significant milestone for the country’s tourism industry. It has the potential to attract millions of visitors and generate billions of dollars in revenue. However, it is important that the government continues to prioritize responsible gambling and ensure that the resort does not have a negative impact on society. With the right regulations and measures in place, the casino resort could be a valuable addition to Japan’s economy and cultural landscape.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
