The complex will open in the western city of Osaka in 2029.

Casinos have long been illegal in Japan. But a law was passed in 2018 providing exceptions to games, such as poker or baccarat, to create jobs and boost tourism.

Public opinion has been split, with some concerned about a rise in crime and gambling addiction.

Besides the casino, the 5.3 million square-foot (49ha) complex will include a hotel, conference centre, shopping mall and museum.

"We hope (the casino) will become a tourism base that promotes Japan's charms to the world," according to Prime Minster Fumio Kishida.

The project has an initial investment of 1.8tn yen ($13.5bn, £10.7bn) with US-based casino operator MGM and Japan's Orix Group each owning a 40% stake in the company.

The other 20% will be owned by local companies such as West Japan Rail, Kansai Electric Power and Osaka-based Panasonic.

Officials expect the resort to attract around 20 million visitors annually and bring in roughly 1tn yen in annual economic benefits to the region, according to a Japanese news service.

The project was proposed years ago, but it was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and a corruption scandal involving a ruling-party lawmaker who was accused of accepting bribes while in charge of casino policy.

Japan is seen a promising market for gambling. It is the world's third largest economy with a population of roughly 126 million.

It also has close proximity to wealthy Asian gamblers, particularly from China. Macau is the only Chinese city where casino gambling is legal.

A similar plan has been submitted by the Nagasaki prefecture to build a casino at Huis Ten Bosch, a Dutch-themed theme park.