Sapporo to Open New MICE Facility in 2033

SAPPORO, Sep 09 (News On Japan) - Sapporo announced plans to open a new large-scale MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facility in fiscal 2033, positioning the city to attract international conferences and exhibitions.

The project envisions a complex with a 2,000-seat main hall and a multipurpose hall of 3,200 square meters, accommodating up to 5,000 people. Officials said the goal is to create a venue capable of hosting major global events.

The site is slated for the grounds of the Sapporo Park Hotel, which will close in April 2027. Construction is scheduled to begin after the site becomes available in February 2027, with completion and opening expected in fiscal 2033.

The city estimates an annual economic ripple effect of 49.2 billion yen, driven by visitor spending on accommodations, dining, and other services.

However, project costs have risen sharply. Initially planned at less than half the current figure, the budget has ballooned due to surging construction expenses and expansion of the land to be acquired. The latest estimate stands at 59.2 billion yen.

Source: Hokkaido News UHB

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