Wakayama Governor Signals Support for a New Casino IR Push

Wakayama Could Back a Private-Sector Integrated Resort Proposal

Miyazaki made the comments during a regular press briefing, following the announcement that fav hospitality group, a unit of Tokyo-listed real estate developer Kasumigaseki Capital Co Ltd, had acquired 100% of Wakayama Marina City Co Ltd.

The waterfront development was previously selected as the proposed location for an integrated resort when Wakayama Prefecture was pursuing a casino resort project.

“The prefecture has always had high hopes for Wakayama Marina City to be a major resort serving as the hub of tourism promotion,” Miyazaki said.

He added that the prefecture has “high expectations for Kasumigaseki Capital to take the lead to develop it further,” noting that Wakayama Prefecture and Wakayama City would be willing to support the company’s development plans.

Governor Open to Casino Resort Development at Marina City

Significantly for Japan’s casino and integrated resort sector, Miyazaki said the prefecture would cooperate if Kasumigaseki Capital decided to pursue an IR project at Wakayama Marina City.

“If Kasumigaseki Capital wishes to have an IR in Wakayama Marina City, the prefecture should cooperate to go ahead with it,” the governor stated.

Under Japan’s Integrated Resort Act, local governments must first select a casino operator and other private-sector partners before submitting an official application to the national government to host an IR.

Any future project in Wakayama would therefore require a coordinated proposal involving the prefecture, the local authorities and a qualified private-sector consortium.

A Possible Return to Japan’s IR Landscape

Wakayama had previously been considered one of the Japanese locations interested in hosting an integrated resort. However, the prefectural assembly rejected the proposed IR plan in April 2022, preventing the community from participating in the first round of applications to the national government.

More recently, Miyazaki had indicated that Wakayama was likely to remain outside the next application process, citing a tight timeline.

Japan’s second round for IR applications is scheduled to open on May 6, 2027, with submissions accepted until November 5, 2027.

Kasumigaseki Capital Acquisition Revives IR Speculation

The acquisition of Wakayama Marina City by fav hospitality group has now brought renewed attention to the site and its potential role in Japan’s future integrated resort development.

While no formal casino proposal has been announced, the governor’s comments indicate that the prefecture is prepared to support a new IR initiative if one is led by the private sector.

For the international gaming industry, Wakayama’s position could be significant as Japan prepares for its next IR application round. The development of a new project would add another potential destination to a market where integrated resort opportunities remain closely watched by global casino operators and investors.

Whether Kasumigaseki Capital or another private-sector consortium ultimately moves forward with a formal proposal remains to be seen, but Wakayama Marina City has once again emerged as a potential candidate in Japan’s evolving casino IR landscape.