As Japan moves closer to reopening its IR licensing process, international operators are once again positioning themselves for what could be a decisive phase in the country’s casino market development. This week, the Japan Tourism Agency released a draft Cabinet order outlining a new application period from May 6 to November 5, 2027, during which local municipalities will be able to submit proposals to host integrated resorts with casino gaming.

The upcoming round could see up to two additional IR licenses awarded, after Osaka emerged as the sole successful applicant in the first process, securing approval in 2021 through a consortium led by MGM Resorts and Orix.

Hard Rock Eyes Renewed Opportunities

Against this backdrop, Hard Rock International has reiterated its long-term interest in Japan. Speaking to industry media, Ado Machida, President of Hard Rock Japan, said the company welcomed the government’s decision and remains focused on the market despite years of uncertainty.

“We are very pleased that a new round of national licenses is being conducted,” Machida said. “Hard Rock has stayed committed to Japan throughout the COVID period with the goal of developing a world-class destination resort tailored to the Japanese market and to the growing influx of international visitors.”

Hard Rock previously identified Hokkaido as its preferred prefecture and established a local presence in Tomakomai in 2018 in preparation for an IR bid. Notably, the group never formally withdrew its interest, even after Hokkaido opted out of the first licensing round in 2019 due to environmental and local concerns.

Hokkaido Back in the Spotlight

Since Osaka secured the country’s first and only IR approval, interest in integrated resort development has been gradually reignited in other regions. In Hokkaido, several government authorities have revisited the concept of an IR as a catalyst for tourism growth and regional economic revitalization, making the prefecture one of the most closely watched potential bidders in the upcoming round, alongside Nagasaki.

With the 2027 application window now taking shape, Hard Rock’s reaffirmed stance underscores a broader trend: global casino operators are once again preparing for what could become a pivotal expansion phase in Japan’s tightly regulated but highly coveted gaming market.