#Japan #Osaka #Gaming Industry #Casino Trends #Michiya Koyama

Exploring Gaming Trends with Michiya Koyama

Introduction

In September 2025, Michiya Koyama, a prominent casino journalist based in Europe, shared his insights on the gaming industry through a series of interviews published on his Note page and Spotify podcast channel. The four-part series discusses the evolving landscape of Integrated Resorts (IR) in Japan, with a particular focus on the Osaka IR project, and its significance in both a local and global context.

The Relevance of Integrated Resorts

IRs are often viewed as a new venture in Japan. Yet, across the globe, these establishments have served as popular tourist destinations and vital sources of revenue for many countries. Koyama has been deeply involved in the gaming business since 2015, operating mainly out of Hong Kong and Europe, and he utilizes his experiences and accumulated knowledge to analyze the latest trends in the sector. His insights draw on the success stories from other nations, academic studies, and personal experiences, making him a vital resource for understanding the current state of the global gaming industry.

Part 1: An Integrated Approach is Essential for IR and Casino Businesses

The necessity for integrating government, industry, and academia was emphasized in the first installment of Koyama's series. As IRs become a focal point for Japan’s tourism strategy, learning from the global best practices is crucial for successful implementation.

Part 2: Improving Gambling Addiction Measures Based on the UK Model

The second segment discusses the pressing issue of gambling addiction, advocating for a refined approach modeled after the UK's strategies. Koyama argues that addressing responsible gambling is critical for the long-term sustainability of the gaming sector.

Part 3: The Dilemma of Balancing Capitalism with Confucian Values

In the third installment, Koyama reflects on the tension between capitalist ideologies and Confucian principles, raising concerns about how this balance impacts the gaming industry's evolution. He asserts that this dilemma poses a significant challenge as IRs look to attract a diverse clientele while remaining socially responsible.

Part 4: The Need for Dialogue on Casinos as Revenue Sources

The final part underscores the necessity of creating platforms for discussing the role of casinos in generating revenue. Koyama believes such discussions will not only enhance public understanding but also help shape policies that govern the gaming industry.

Guest Profile: Michiya Koyama

Born on June 1, 1989, in Kobe, Japan, Michiya Koyama moved to New York at a young age due to his father’s job at a major trading company. This exposure to diverse cultures sparked his interest in strategic games and sports.

Despite fracturing his arm while playing American football at 14, Koyama redirected his focus to board games and poker. After obtaining a degree in business from Boston University and a master's in marketing from the University of Warwick, Koyama sought a career path that resonated with his interests. It was in 2015, through a friend's introduction, that he began his journey in the gaming sector.

Today, Koyama is committed to disseminating knowledge about gaming and casino businesses through his podcast, World Casino Times, where he aims to bridge gaps in understanding.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Koyama is a dog lover and currently raises multiple Boston Terriers. A self-proclaimed sweet tooth, he finds his daily motivation in Dubai chocolate.

Conclusion

As the global gaming landscape continues to evolve, experts like Michiya Koyama play an essential role in informing both the industry and the public about its complexities and ongoing challenges. His multifaceted approach not only highlights the importance of learning from global standards but also engages crucial discussions surrounding the future of IRs in Japan and beyond.