The CEO of Mori Building hopes to bring an integrated resort with a casino to Tokyo. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
Interesting plans
A major real estate developer in Japan is currently eyeing a potential casino project in Tokyo. Shingo Tsuji is the CEO of Mori Building, the company behind some of the capital’s most famous structures. He mentioned the possibility of an integrated casino resort as part of the company’s next mega-project.
would allow Tokyo to compare favorably with other major cities in the world
The 63-year-old mentioned that establishing a gaming facility in the region was “a necessary component” and that it would allow Tokyo to perform well compared to other major cities in the world. The city’s metropolis is home to 14 million people and an integrated resort would also provide shopping, entertainment, accommodation and other types of facilities.
A major developer
Mori has been central to Tokyo’s development since the 1950s. Most recently, the company was responsible for the construction of the $4 billion complex of luxury residences, restaurants, shops and offices in Azabudai Hills.
The aim is to make the city a global center similar to London and New York
His other well-known projects include Toranomon Hills and Roppongi Hills. The company’s aim is to make the city a global center similar to London and New York and to attract foreign investment.
Tsuji noted that demand for offices in Japan is much stronger than in U.S. cities such as San Francisco and New York, with people in rural areas typically preferring to work in an office environment due to smaller apartments and efficient public transportation.
Gets his first casino
Integrated resorts were legalized in Japan back in 2018, paving the way for the country’s first casinos. The original idea behind legalization was to compete with Macau as Asia’s gambling hub. Due to various delays and resistance from certain quarters, interest has decreased somewhat.
Other regions showing interest in a license before withdrawing from the race for now include Nagasaki, Wakayama and Yokohama.
There are three casino licenses available, although only one project has been given the green light so far. MGM Resorts International is partnering with local company Orix Corporation to create an integrated resort in Osaka. The project, which is still in the planning phase, is expected to cost at least $8.5 billion and is expected to open its doors in fall 2030.
