The mayor of Tomakomai has reactivated the proposal to make the city the next host of an Integrated Resort (IR), seeking backing from the Hokkaido prefectural government to advance this ambitious project. Despite setbacks in 2019, when the prefecture declined to submit an official bid due to environmental concerns and lack of consensus, the increasing importance of IRs in Japan has prompted local authorities to reconsider their strategy.
Japan’s IR market is projected to generate over $20 billion annually, according to a 2023 study by Global Market Insights. With Osaka’s IR set to open in 2029 and Nagasaki’s project progressing, the industry is seen as a major economic driver.
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Tomakomai, with its strategic location and connection to international markets, positions itself as a key candidate to expand this industry.
The city’s main argument is its potential to attract foreign visitors, particularly from neighboring Asian markets such as China and South Korea. Additionally, its proximity to New Chitose Airport facilitates access for both international and domestic tourists, making it an appealing destination for a high-level IR.
Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki has yet to confirm his stance on this renewed initiative, though Tomakomai’s local administration is in the process of gathering environmental impact studies and economic models to support its proposal. Experts suggest that an IR in Hokkaido could create over 15,000 jobs and generate annual revenues exceeding $3 billion, benefiting both the city and the region.
The revival of this proposal not only strengthens the local economy but also contributes to solidifying Japan’s presence in the competitive global entertainment and tourism industry. With the experience gained in Osaka and Nagasaki, Tomakomai could become a key industry player, creating new opportunities for investment and long-term employment.
