Toyonori Takahashi, representing Orix, MGM Resorts' partner, believes Japan's first integrated resort has the potential to surpass its Asian competitors. Construction for MGM Osaka is set to commence this April.

Orix Corporation, the often-overlooked partner of MGM Resorts in the multibillion-dollar integrated resort (IR) project in Osaka, Japan, is stepping into the spotlight as the April groundbreaking approaches.
On 9 January, Toyonori Takahashi, Kansai region representative for Orix, shared his optimism on the company’s website, stating that the IR “will attract a significant number of visitors and tourists, both domestically and internationally.” He also expressed confidence that MGM Osaka will compete effectively with established IRs in Asia, particularly those in Macau and Singapore.
Takahashi highlighted Japan’s unique appeal, emphasizing its diverse attractions, including “food, culture, and nature,” which give it an edge over these smaller cities. MGM Osaka, located on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay, is scheduled to open its doors in 2030.
Investment Potential: JPY1.6 Trillion
MGM Resorts and Orix Corporation have committed up to JPY1.6 trillion (£8.2 billion/€9.7 billion/$10 billion) for the development of Japan’s first integrated resort (IR). This project benefits from a significant head start—no domestic competition.
Under Japan’s 2018 IR legislation, three licenses were made available, but only one was granted. In 2023, MGM and Orix secured the exclusive license, giving their resort a monopoly on casino gaming in Japan for the foreseeable future. MGM and Orix each hold a 40% share in the project, with the remaining 20% distributed among local investors, including transportation and energy companies.
Orix’s deep ties to the Kansai region further strengthen its position. The company developed and operates Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport, manages local car rental services, and acquired two hotels in Osaka last year. It even owns the Orix Buffaloes baseball team.
Founded as a leasing company, Orix celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024 as a global conglomerate operating in 30 countries. Its diverse portfolio spans industries such as finance, real estate, banking, energy, shipping, and aviation. These extensive regional and international networks provide a solid foundation for the success of the MGM Osaka project.
Japan Bolsters Prospects for Orix and MGM
Orix Corporation sees the Osaka integrated resort (IR) as a key component of its broader Kansai strategy, aimed at attracting and accommodating tourists to the region.
“The Yumeshima project aligns with our goals and contributes to both our company and the Kansai area as a whole,” said Toyonori Takahashi, Kansai region representative for Orix. “I am confident in the success of Japan’s first integrated resort.”
The project also strengthens MGM Resorts’ standing in the global gaming market, according to financial analyst Albert Anthony.
“While the macroeconomic outlook for Las Vegas is mixed heading into 2025, MGM has been expanding its presence in Asia and diversifying its U.S. portfolio beyond Las Vegas,” Anthony wrote on the financial platform Seeking Alpha.
He gave MGM stock a “buy” rating, in line with analyst consensus on Seeking Alpha and Wall Street.
Expanding Attractions for Yumeshima Island
Osaka Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama revealed ambitious plans for Yumeshima Island, which is set to host the 2025 World Expo from April to October.
As reported by Kyodo News, the 1.5 million-square-meter site will undergo further development after the expo concludes. Proposed projects include a motor racing circuit or a water-themed resort, adding to the island’s appeal as a premier destination.