April 2025, Osaka – Japan has officially begun construction of its first integrated resort (IR) including a casino, marking a historic moment in the country’s tourism and entertainment landscape. The project, located on the man-made island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay, is a joint venture between Japanese conglomerate Orix Corporation and U.S. gaming giant MGM Resorts International.
A Vision for the Future
The Osaka IR is envisioned as a world-class entertainment hub combining a casino, luxury hotels, international convention centers, theaters, restaurants, and commercial facilities. The project’s total investment exceeds ¥1.27 trillion (about $8.6 billion USD).
Construction officially began in Spring 2025, and the resort is scheduled to open its doors by autumn of 2030. The development is expected to attract 20 million visitors annually and create around 15,000 new jobs.
Key Features
Casino: A regulated facility for foreign visitors, integrated with responsible gambling programs. Hotels: Multiple luxury hotel brands, offering over 2,500 rooms. Conference Center: A large-scale MICE facility (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). Entertainment: Shopping complexes, theaters, and cultural showcases. Sustainability: Built with eco-friendly designs and green energy solutions.
Social Impact and Challenges
While the IR promises economic revitalization and global tourism appeal, concerns remain over gambling addiction, infrastructure strain, and environmental impacts. Japan’s government has implemented strict entry regulations for Japanese citizens, such as limiting visits and charging entrance fees, to mitigate addiction risks.
Local governments have also addressed land subsidence and earthquake preparedness, given Yumeshima’s soft soil and reclaimed land structure.
Strategic Timing
The construction aligns closely with the upcoming Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, which will also take place on Yumeshima. The synergy of these two mega-projects is expected to redefine Osaka’s international image and position it as a gateway to Asia for business, culture, and leisure.
