A nation is preparing to officially open its inaugural casino, marking a historic milestone for the country.

Just a few years ago, the idea of Japan hosting its first land-based casino seemed completely unimaginable. However, with the ever-increasing effects of globalization, the world is constantly evolving and attitudes towards casinos are changing in many countries. While some states have embraced both physical and virtual casinos, others have remained hesitant and cautious. Japan, however, is now joining the ranks of countries that allow land-based casinos. It is a significant step forward for the Land of the Rising Sun and a clear indication of how things are shifting on a global scale. The transformation is undeniable and serves as a testament to the changing landscape of the gambling industry.

Formerly resistant laws that currently support the endorsement of gambling establishments

Under the influence of Shinzo Abe, Parliament ultimately passed a law in late 2016 that legalized brick-and-mortar casinos, a decision that had long been indecisive. This significant shift in direction was driven by the Prime Minister's attentiveness to a portion of the Japanese society who, up until now, had been limited to enjoying pachinko, a combination of a pinball machine and a slot machine. However, it would be oversimplifying matters to attribute this transformative change solely to the appeasement of this somewhat manipulative perspective.

In a bid to revive its economy and boost tourism, Japan finds itself grappling with the daunting task of repaying a debt amounting to 230% of its GDP. To address this pressing issue, the country has taken a bold step by enacting a law in 2016 that permits the establishment of three casino resorts within its archipelago. The government remains optimistic that these ventures will yield a staggering revenue of 10 billion dollars, breathing new life into Japan's financial landscape.

In 2025, the city of Osaka will witness the grand opening of its first-ever land-based casino.

Since 2016, there has been a fierce battle among investors to secure positions in the limited number of authorized casino resorts, despite the tough competition they may face from Macau. These high-demand establishments have been the topic of extensive discussions over the past three years.

MGM Resorts, a renowned global casino entity, has emerged victorious in a heated competition against its rival Las Vegas Sands, solidifying its position as the front-runner in the industry. Boasting an impressive financial weight of over $14 billion, MGM Resorts is set to become the pioneering casino resort to grace the shores of Japan. The eagerly anticipated license approval is expected to be granted by 2020, paving the way for the grand opening of the establishment in Osaka in 2025, coinciding with the city's hosting of the World Expo. While the Japanese populace eagerly awaits this momentous occasion, they will continue to engage in their beloved pachinko, while astute investors scramble to explore the untapped potential of the remaining two destinations.