The CEO of Mori Building hopes to bring an integrated resort, which will include a casino, to Tokyo. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
Interesting plans
One of Japan’s major real estate developers is now eyeing a potential casino project in Tokyo. Shingo Tsuji is the CEO of Mori Building, the company behind some of the capital’s most iconic buildings. He mentioned the possibility of an integrated casino resort as part of the company’s next mega project.
It will allow Tokyo to compare favorably with other major global cities
The 63-year-old stated that having a gambling facility in the area is a “necessary piece” and that it will allow Tokyo to compare favorably with other major global cities. The city has a population of 14 million people, and the integrated resort will also provide shopping, entertainment, accommodation and other types of facilities.
Senior developer
Mori has been central to the development of Tokyo since the 1950s. She was most recently responsible for the construction of a $4 billion complex of luxury residences, restaurants, shops and offices in Azabudai Hills.
It aims to transform the city into a global center closer to London and New York
Some of its other well-known projects include Toranomon Hills and Roppongi Hills. The company aims to transform the city into a global center similar to London and New York when attracting foreign investments.
Tsuji noted that demand for offices in Japan is much stronger than in American cities such as San Francisco and New York, as people in the country usually prefer to work in offices due to the small size of homes and efficient public transportation options.
Get her first casino
Integrated resorts first became legal in Japan in 2018, paving the way for the country to get its first ever casinos. The initial idea behind the legislation was to compete with Macau to become the gambling hub of Asia. Interest has waned somewhat due to various delays and opposition from certain circles.
Some other regions that have shown interest in obtaining a license before withdrawing from racing for the time being include Nagasaki, Wakayama and Yokohama.
Three casino licenses are available, with only one project so far getting the green light. MGM Resorts International is working with local company Orix Corporation to create an integrated resort in Osaka. Still in the planning phase, the project is scheduled to cost at least US$8.5 billion and is expected to open its doors by fall 2030.
