Yokohama IR faces opposition

The chairman of the Yokohama Harbor Transport Association has declared war on the IR project, to be located at the Yamashita Pier.

Japan.- The proposed Yokohama integrated resort (IR) had been gaining momentum but is now facing some opposition. As the prefecture voiced its intentions to push for development, it targeted the Yamashita Pier as its location.

However, Yokohama Harbor Transport Association Chairman Yukio Fujiki has declared war on the development. As he controls part of the pier, he says he “shall not be evicted” and now poses as a threat to the project.

The businessman is angry after his own plans for a Yokohama IR were unsuccessful.

According to Fujiki, a casino is not necessary to make the area into a profitable resort. “Everything is possible without a casino,” he said, as quoted by AGBrief. 

However, Mayor Hayashi insists that a casino will be a cash generator for the project to work. “Do not create a gambling hall that will only increase the number of gambling addiction patients!” Fujiki fired.

“This area is sacred land to the people of the harbour like us, so don’t turn it into a gambling den,” he said about the Yokohama IR. “What we must do is to protect Yamashita Pier. My wish is to leave behind a beautiful port for the children of the future.”