Yokohama’s potential return to the casino bidding pool has been sparked by the resignation of Mayor Takeharu Yamanaka in the midst of controversy.
The findings of a third-party investigation into Yamanaka’s conduct were released in July, revealing his involvement in workplace harassment. Following a whistleblower’s complaint, it was disclosed that the mayor had engaged in coercive behavior towards city employees.
A report by a law firm showed that Yamanaka had mistreated his subordinates, using derogatory language such as “morons” and “human scum.” Yamanaka admitted to his wrongdoing, expressing deep regret and issuing an apology for his use of inappropriate language.
Elected in 2021, Yamanaka initially campaigned against casinos, describing gambling as a “poison apple.” Upon winning, he withdrew Yokohama from consideration as a potential casino site.
Yamanaka, reelected in August 2025, announced his resignation plans last month. The Yokohama City Council unanimously accepted his resignation on Sept. 7.
Yokohama Casino Reconsideration
With Yamanaka out of office, Yokohama may reconsider its bid for an integrated resort (IR). A special election on Oct. 18, 2026, will determine the city’s next mayor.
Attorney Atsumi Harasawa has announced her candidacy, stating, “I have decided to run in the Yokohama mayoral election to move our stagnant city administration forward and make this town overflowing with smiles.”
I have decided to run in the Yokohama mayoral election to move our stagnant city administration forward and make this town overflowing with smiles,” the 59-year-old Harasawa said.
Harasawa, a graduate of Keio University Graduate School, started her career as an engineer at Japan Airlines in 1992 before transitioning to law in 2009.
She currently serves as an outside director for several companies, including Kawasaki Kisen (K Line), a transportation conglomerate.
Harasawa is expected to receive support from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Japan’s ruling party led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
While Harasawa has not publicly shared her stance on Yokohama’s IR exploration, the LDP has been open to the idea of expanding Japan’s casino industry under Takaichi’s leadership.
Yokohama Casino Bid
During Japan’s initial casino bidding round, Yokohama had planned to participate but withdrew its IR eligibility after Yamanaka’s election. The city had garnered interest from major gaming operators like Las Vegas Sands, Wynn Resorts, Genting, Galaxy Entertainment, and Melco Resorts.
Japan is set to launch a second bidding round for the two remaining IR licenses in the near future.