More details have emerged about possible non-gaming facilities by third-party private investors that might go near the under-development MGM Osaka, Japan’s first and so far only integrated resort (IR) with casino.
The additional information mentions there would be four “zones” for such non-gaming, including a hotel and exhibition venue to support the IR, and facilities for “advanced medical care” as well as for “life science”.
On Saturday the Yomiuri Shimbun news outlet reported the fresh information, citing people connected to the Osaka prefectural and city governments. They are the authorities coordinating development at Yumeshima (pictured in a file photo), an artificial island in Osaka Bay that will be home to MGM Osaka.
The master plan for “Yumeshima Phase 2” might be announced in March, added the news outlet, according to information reviewed by GGRAsia’s Japan correspondent.
Phase 1 is for the JPY1.27-trillion (US$8.38 billion currently) casino resort developed by United States-based MGM Resorts International and Japan’s Orix Corp, along with smaller investment from other Japanese entities. MGM Osaka will have its own hotel with about 2,500 rooms, according to plans previously outlined by the authorities.
Yumeshima Phase 2 would cover 50 hectares (123.6 acres) and would be divided into four zones.
The main portion would be a “zone for entertainment and recreation” including an already-reported racing circuit and a “world-class” water park.
There would be a “zone for cooperation with the IR” to include facilities such as a hotel and a large exhibition venue.
Additionally anticipated is a zone for facilities for advanced medical care and life science. A “gateway zone”, featuring commercial facilities, would be connected to the recently-opened subway station on the island, called Yumeshima Station.
The news outlet cited the people as saying the Osaka prefecture and city authorities expected Yumeshima Phase 2 to open in calendar year 2030, the same time as the 50-hectare Phase 1 for MGM Osaka.
A ground breaking ceremony for MGM Osaka is to be held on April 24 this year, said on Wednesday Bill Hornbuckle, chief executive and president of MGM Resorts, speaking on the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call.
He stated MGM Osaka was “advancing as planned,” adding that “ground preparation is targeted for completion this year, with main construction set to commence shortly thereafter”.
