Open to All Attendees
Mon 27 May
1:30 PM — 3:30 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown PLAZA B1F, Ishinki sculpture
Study Tour | MIYASHITA PARK: Transformation through Urban Renewal
Category
Placemaking
Previously a public park located along the Yamanote line, the revitalised MIYASHITA PARK is now home to a shopping mall, a variety of restaurants and cafe´s, as well as a hotel. In its overhaul, it was reimagined as a multi-dimensional facility with something to suit everyone. The highlight is its spacious green rooftop park, complete with skate park, a bouldering wall, a sand-covered court perfect for beach volleyball, and an open lawn area. The park is a shining example of enhancing public land utilisation and successful placemaking of public space through urban renewal in a new era that resonates with the younger demographic, offering a welcoming environment for social and cultural interaction and community engagement.
Meeting point: Tokyo Midtown
Bus transportation will be provided between Tokyo Midtown and Miyashita Park.
Tour registration fee: US$50. Spaces on the tour are limited and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register here to sign up for the Asia Pacific Summit and select this study tour.
Already registered? Manage your Summit registration here to select this study tour or email Customer Service for assistance.
Tour programmes are correct at time of publication and subject to change without prior notice.
Tue 28 May
8:00 AM — 9:00 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Conference, Midtown Tower 4F, ULI Registration Desk
Registration and Networking
Tue 28 May
8:30 AM — 12:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown PLAZA B1F, Ishinki sculpture
Study Tour | Reaching New Heights: ESR Higashi Ogishima DC – A Revolution in Logistics
The Higashi Ogishima Distribution Centre set a new benchmark in modern logistics infrastructure and now represents a beacon in urban rejuvenation. At nine storeys tall, it stands as Japan's tallest and one of its largest logistics facilities, delivering significant scale and capacity. Its human-centric and sustainable design have earned it S-rank CASBEE certification and BELS five stars rating. To meet the diverse needs of its users and enhance operational efficiency, the facility incorporates a range of amenities including three lounges, bowling alleys, 24-hour stores, a sky deck, private dining options, a park, fitness facilities, shower rooms, a free children's day-care center, and restrooms for drivers.
This tour will provide ULI members unique access and insights into this unique and groundbreaking facility.
Meeting point: Tokyo Midtown
Bus transportation will be provided between Tokyo Midtown and the distribution centre.
Tour registration fee: US$50. Spaces on the tour are limited and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register here to sign up for the Asia Pacific Summit and select this study tour.
Already registered? Manage your Summit registration here to select this study tour or email Customer Service for assistance.
Tour programmes are correct at time of publication and subject to change without prior notice.
Sold Out
Tue 28 May
8:45 AM — 11:30 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Roppongi Station Exit 4B, Taxi stand
Study Tour | Azabudai Hills: City-Within-a-City in Central Tokyo
Azabudai Hills embodies the concept of a modern urban village, offering a vast open space in the heart of Tokyo filled with lush greenery that fosters community building and connectivity. It prioritises "Green & Wellness," creating an environment where residents can live in harmony with nature, promoting healthy and fulfilling lifestyles. Its sustainability efforts have led to it receiving preliminary certifications in LEED-ND, LEED-BD+C, and WELL as of March 2024, showcasing its commitment to environmental responsibility and wellness. In collaboration with renown global architects like Heatherwick Studios, Azabudai Hills has created a vibrant urban space where art and culture seamlessly blend together, making it a unique and transformative urban development in Tokyo that prioritises community well-being and environmental sustainability.
Join us on this stakeholder led tour by Mori Building as we delve into the inner workings of this extraordinary new development in the heart of central Tokyo.
Meeting point: Roppongi Station
Participants will be walking to Azabudai Hills. All will disperse from Azabudai Hills after the tour.
This is an all-weather tour. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Spaces on the tour are limited and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register here to sign up for the Asia Pacific Summit and select this study tour.
Already registered? Manage your Summit registration here to select this study tour or email Customer Service for assistance.
Tour programmes are correct at time of publication and subject to change without prior notice.
Tue 28 May
9:00 AM — 12:30 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Conference, Midtown Tower 4F, Room 9
Decarbonisation and Resilience Forum
This is a must-attend event for real estate professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in the face of increasing sustainability challenges. Through thought-provoking panels and presentations, attendees will gain the knowledge and tools needed to address critical challenges, such as navigating ESG frameworks, future-proofing assets against climate risks, unlocking value through retrofits, and embracing whole-life carbon planning. Take advantage of this opportunity to future-proof your real estate portfolio and contribute to a more sustainable built environment.
8.30am Registration and networking
9.00am Welcome and introductions
Mavis Ma, Sustainability Manager, GLP Capital Partners Japan
9.05am Mapping ESG: Clarity from Complexity
With the proliferation of global ESG frameworks, real estate stakeholders must stay informed about the latest developments and understand how to navigate this alphabet soup effectively.
- How are the various frameworks evolving to provide greater clarity and consistency for investors?
- What are the critical ESG factors that investors should prioritise to maximise both sustainability impact and financial returns?
9.20am Panel Discussion
Value-At-Risk - Future-Proof Today
Investors face growing pressure to account for climate risk in real estate valuation and decision-making.
- How are investors, insurers, and asset managers navigating the challenges presented by physical and transition risks?
- What best practices have they developed for assessing and mitigating climate-related impacts on real estate portfolios?
Panelists
Mark Cameron, Head of Sustainability, Asia Pacific, Nuveen Real Estate
Calvin Kwan, Head of Sustainability and Risk Governance, Link Asset Management
Cecilia Tse, ESG, Climate and Enterprise Risk, National Practice Lead, New Zealand, AON
10.05am Lightning Round #1:
Carbon Pricing Shifts Cost Curve For All
Understand how carbon pricing mechanisms fundamentally alter the cost-benefit analysis of decarbonisation efforts, which propel the development and deployment of innovative, low-carbon solutions.
10.20am Networking refreshments
10.40am Panel Discussion
Smart Retrofits to Unlock New Values
Retrofitting existing buildings is crucial for the world to achieve its net-zero goals, as 80% of the buildings that will stand in 2050 are already built.
- What are the main barriers preventing widespread acceleration of retrofits?
- How can owners plan effective retrofits that enhance building performance, reduce emissions, and improve tenant well-being while enhancing long-term asset value?
Moderator
Bradford Dockser, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Green Generation
Panelists
Helen Amos, Head of Sustainability, Hong Kong, JLL
Vram Malek, Principal, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
11.25am Lightning Round #2:
Refrigerant Emission: The Hidden Elephant
Shed light on refrigerant emissions in real estate, as these sneaky greenhouse gas contributors have a disproportionately large (and often underestimated) impact on global warming.
11.40am Panel Discussion
Plan for Whole-life Carbon Today
The real estate industry must shift toward a whole-life carbon perspective in order to drive long-term business success in an increasingly sustainability-focused market.
- How can the real estate industry effectively measure and reduce projects' whole-life carbon impact to meet regulatory requirements, investor expectations, and tenant preferences?
- What are the best practices for integrating whole-life carbon considerations into real estate projects to drive cost savings, mitigate climate-related risks, and optimise resource efficiency?
Panelists
Giovanni Cossu, Head of Sustainability, CapitaLand Development
Eddie Tse, Group Sustainability Manager, Gammon Construction
Pritya Pravina Widiarta, Director, Climate Change, Asia Pacific, HSBC
12.25pm Closing remarks
Programme is correct at time of publication and subject to change without prior notice.
Tue 28 May
12:30 PM — 2:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Conference, Midtown Tower 4F, Rooms 1-4
Networking Lunch
Tue 28 May
12:30 PM — 2:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Conference, Midtown Tower 4F, Room 5
NEXT Regional Networking Lunch
This networking lunch has limited capacity. Registrants must opt in to attend and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tue 28 May
2:00 PM — 5:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Conference, Midtown Tower 4F, Room 9
Capital Markets Forum
ULI APAC Capital Markets Forum is the marquee event for the ULI investors and capital markets professionals' community.
In this three-hour forum, we will review the forecast for key indicators, hear from leading investors on their investment prospects and challenges versus opportunities, learn about the continuous rise of credit investments, and dive into discussions on the hottest asset classes in Japan and whether the office is still necessary.
2.00pm Introduction and welcome
Welcome remarks and setting the scene.
Ryuta Takeuchi, Head of Capital Markets, Japan, JLL
2.05pm Market Overview
Where are the real estate markets headed in APAC? Are we out of the woods when it comes to fundraising? Where are the global inflows and outflows, and what are the trends we are able to establish? To answer those and many other questions, JLL will be providing a comprehensive state of the market overview.
Pamela Ambler, Head of Investor Intelligence & Strategy Capital Markets, Asia Pacific, JLL
2.20pm Institutional Investors' View of the World - LP Panel
On this flagship panel, LPs based in Japan as well as international LPs investing across APAC will discuss the Forecast's results, as well as their outlook toward the capital markets and investment environment. What are they investing in or avoiding as an asset class? Where are the opportunities in APAC and how do returns compare on a global basis? And how are those investors implementing ESG requirements across their portfolios?
Moderator
Joyce Lo, Director, Private Capital Advisory Group, Lazard
3.00pm Networking refreshments
3.20pm Deep Dive
Deep dive on cutting edge sustainability in mixed use project design and operations featuring a project in Kita Osaka - Green Garden?
Yuichi Kanbayashi, General Manager of Grand Green Osaka Office, Mitsubishi Estate
3.40pm Fireside chat - Japan investment strategies
What is next for Japan's real estate markets? What are the most attractive opportunities that investors are seeing at the moment, and how do they capture those opportunities?
Moderator
Jon Tanaka, Senior Managing Director and Country Head, Japan, Hines
Panelists
Seiko Ikeda, Head of Japan, M&G Real Estate
Taku Yamaumi, Partner and Head of Japan, L Catterton Real Estate
4.20pm Credit Panel
Whilst the sharp rise in interest rates since 2022 has been negative for real estate equity strategies, it is favourable for real estate debt strategies. Higher base rates and wider credit spreads combined with more caution among commercial banks, have contributed to an attractive environment for private credit strategies. Today private real estate credit is playing an increasingly important role in institutional portfolios, due to its income profile and loss protection characteristics. However, will credit funds continue to enjoy their popularity in the near future? And what are the preferred debt strategies and which markets in APAC are currently offering better opportunities?
Panelists
Paul Brindley, Head of Debt Advisory, Capital Markets, Asia Pacific, JLL
Arjun Pandit, Managing Director, Funds Management, CapitaLand Investment
Bryan Southergill, Partner, Head of Real Estate, ARES
Benett Theseira, Managing Director and Head of Asia Pacific, PGIM Real Estate
5.05pm Closing and summary
Key takeaways and Forum adjourns
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Programme is correct at time of publication and subject to change without prior notice.
Tue 28 May
5:00 PM — 7:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Conference, Midtown Tower 4F, Rooms 1-4
Welcome Cocktails
Wed 29 May
8:00 AM — 8:55 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Conference, Midtown Tower 4F, Rooms 1-4
Registration and Networking
Wed 29 May
8:55 AM — 9:00 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Opening Address
Welcome and introductions
Wed 29 May
9:00 AM — 9:20 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Opening Keynote Address: Humanising Our Cities
When did everything become so boring and homogenous? Who is really thinking about how to make buildings, places, and objects mean something to us - to lift our spirits and connect us? How can we make our cities more human?
In this opening address Thomas Heatherwick, Founder of Heatherwick Studio, will outline his thoughts on how designers and city makers can create more human places, and explain how a fundamental understanding of emotion is the crucial ingredient that is missing in so much of design today.
Brought to you by:
Wed 29 May
9:20 AM — 9:40 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Fireside Chat: Japan’s Leadership in the New Global Order
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan has remained committed to its economic recovery and investment in innovation. The country's strong financial system and well-developed healthcare infrastructure have helped to mitigate the impact of the pandemic, while its focus on sustainability has positioned it well for the future. From innovative urban planning to sustainable development practices, Japan's real estate sector serves as a model for the world.
What are the lessons and strategies that can be gleaned from Japan's success to thrive in the dynamic and interconnected world of real estate?
Wed 29 May
9:40 AM — 10:20 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Panel Discussion: Navigating the Geopolitical Currents Reshaping Real Estate
This panel discussion delves into the resilience of property portfolios amidst escalating global uncertainties. Panelists explore the intricate relationship between geopolitics and real estate, analysing how the US-China power struggle affects Asian property markets, how global conflicts reshape safe havens, how trade disruptions challenge logistics real estate, and how economic shifts endanger housing markets.
Wed 29 May
10:20 AM — 10:50 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, Hall A
Coffee break
Wed 29 May
10:30 AM — 10:45 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, INSIGHTS, Hall A
The Ultimate Digital Access Experience for Rental Housing
Grab a coffee and a bite to eat, and take a seat at INSIGHTS to share the latest insights in technology and trends from our esteemed sponsor.
Speaker:
Cedric Duigou, Living Spaces, APAC Lead, SALTO Systems
Wed 29 May
10:50 AM — 11:30 AM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Panel Discussion: Embracing Global Demographic Shifts
The future of real estate is moving beyond mere bricks and mortar, prioritising the creation of vibrant communities with a strong social impact. This shift demands a move away from building "glass towers" and towards prioritising the social aspects of ESG, not just for public image, but as a strategic necessity. Imagine unlocking talent in underserved areas, building brand loyalty through social purpose, and attracting investors to projects that foster shared prosperity. Achieving this requires acknowledging demographic shifts, like an aging population needing specialised healthcare and flexible housing, and a growing middle class demanding adaptable spaces for diverse families. Additionally, attracting top talent necessitates innovative workspaces that prioritise well-being and productivity.
This panel discussion will explore these trends, focusing on equitable development and creating urban centres that not only meet current and future needs, but also contribute to community well-being, economic vitality, and a positive human experience for all.
Wed 29 May
11:30 AM — 12:10 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Live Long, Live Green: Sustainable Strategies for Asia’s Ageing Infrastructure
As Asia's population develops and ages, a critical challenge emerges: how can we create a sustainable built environment that empowers our youth, young families, and senior citizens? In this session, we'll explore innovative retrofitting strategies for existing buildings in developed nations as well as delve into preparing fast-growing economies for societies as they mature, examining how to construct new buildings. We'll discuss design, green building practices, and policy changes to achieve a thriving and sustainable Asia for all generations. 
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Wed 29 May
12:10 PM — 12:20 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, INSIGHTS, Hall A
ULI Hines Student Competition Asia Pacific
Designed to raise interest among young people in creating better communities and improving urban development patterns, the ULI Hines Student Competiton Asia Pacific encourages cooperation and teamwork among future land-use professionals. Teams of university students were invited to devise a comprehensive design and proposal for a real-world urban site in Tokyo reflecting responsible use of land. Meet the region’s competition champions and hear their fresh perspectives on future urban development.
Wed 29 May
12:20 PM — 1:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Panel Discussion: Bridging Wisdom and Passion for Impact
We'll explore how inter-generational collaboration can help understand the aspirations of young people, adapt investments like student housing, and navigate the impact of social changes like remote work on real estate demand. We'll also delve into the role of emerging technologies in optimising real estate assets. This insightful discussion witnesses experts across generations delving into economic, demographic, and social trends that shape future investments.
Wed 29 May
1:00 PM — 2:15 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, Hall A
Networking Lunch
Wed 29 May
1:30 PM — 1:45 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, INSIGHTS, Hall A
One Museum Place: Best Practices in Sustainability
Grab a coffee and a bite to eat, and take a seat at INSIGHTS to share the latest insights in technology and trends from our esteemed sponsor.
Speaker:
Kitty Cheung, Director of Marketing and ESG for Greater China, Hines
Wed 29 May
2:15 PM — 2:35 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Fireside Chat: The Leadership View – Through the Lens of the CEO
In the face of unprecedented change, CEOs play a pivotal role in shaping the future of real estate. How do leaders navigate tech shifts and market fluctuations? What strategies guide decisions amid global economic influences and data analytics? CEOs go beyond norms, driving growth through strategic partnerships, shaping urban spaces, and addressing sustainability challenges. These questions define this discussion, charting a course toward a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive future for real estate.
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Wed 29 May
2:35 PM — 2:45 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
ULI Asia Pacific Awards for Excellence
Widely recognised as one of the real estate industry's most prestigious competitions, this year’s winners represent the highest standards of development practice in the region’s private, public, and non-profit sectors.
Meet the outstanding winners of the 2024 ULI Asia Pacific Awards for Excellence and celebrate their exemplary work which will inspire our industry.
Wed 29 May
2:45 PM — 3:35 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Panel Discussion: Beyond Megacities – Growth and Revitalisation in a Decentralised Future
The rise of remote work is reshaping Asia's real estate landscape. This session explores how changing work practices are leading to exciting investment and development opportunities in smaller cities across the region. From India to Australia, we will dive into the unique stories of various markets, examining the impact of transportation, cultural preferences, and demographics on space needs.
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Wed 29 May
3:35 PM — 4:05 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, Hall A
Coffee break
Wed 29 May
4:05 PM — 4:45 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Panel Discussion: Is Real Estate Investment Dead? Decalibration in 2024’s Real Estate Capital Shift
Amid the dynamic 2024 real estate capital markets, a significant shift is underway, driven by the intricate interplay of rising interest rates and geopolitical complexities. This panel takes a deep dive into the complexities of transitioning from equity to debt, shedding light on distinctive challenges present in various global real estate sectors.
As the discussion unfolds, the panel not only addresses the intricacies of this global landscape but also unveils innovative investment models and resilient strategies to set the stage for a new era of possibilities within the international real estate capital markets.
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Wed 29 May
4:45 PM — 5:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, General Session, Hall B
Closing Keynote Address: How Technology and Human Connection Can Reshape Our Cities
Forget forgotten corners. Imagine them pulsating with life thanks to XR technology. Interactive museums, captivating avatars, and boundless cultural experiences paint the future of real estate. Join Masahiro Yamaguchi's closing keynote as he explores how XR can revitalise urban spaces, fostering vibrant hubs and reshaping the industry. It's not just about filling spaces; it's about reimagining cities and forging a future where technology and human connection create dynamic, engaging experiences.
Wed 29 May
5:00 PM — 7:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown Hall, Midtown East B1F, Hall A
ULI Closing Ceremony & Reception
Sold Out
Thu 30 May
5:30 AM — 12:30 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown PLAZA B1F, Ishinki sculpture
Study Tour | Disney Behind the Glitter: Making Dreamland Run
Join our hosts as the team from Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour of Tokyo DisneySea.
Participants will enjoy a private early morning tour of the resort before the day's official opening. As the resort receives its first visitors for the day, the group will return to Walt Disney Animation Japan via a back of house (BOH) route, where the group will see BOH operations in progress. Our hosts will share an in-depth presentation of the history and relationship between Disney and Oriental Land Company (OLC), an introduction to WDI, and a glimpse into the Imagineering process.
Meeting point: Tokyo Midtown
Bus transportation will be provided between Tokyo Midtown and Disney.
This is an all-weather tour. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Tour registration fee: US$50. Spaces on the tour are limited and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register here to sign up for the Asia Pacific Summit and select this study tour.
Already registered? Manage your Summit registration here to select this study tour or email Customer Service for assistance.
Already registered? Manage your Summit registration here to select this study tour or email Customer Service for assistance.
Tour programmes are correct at time of publication and subject to change without prior notice.
ULI thanks our tour hosts:
Peter Arnet, Project Management Executive, Walt Disney Imagineering
Graduate from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo, with a bachelor's degree in Architecture and a master's in Business Administration. Peter started his career with Walt Disney Imagineering in 1989 as Principal Project Planner for Mickey's Toontown and Indiana Jones at Disneyland in Anaheim. After WDI, Peter joined Universal Studios as Project Director for Universal Lands of Adventure in Orlando and Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. Leaving the theme park world for eleven years, he joined the management teams who led mega-resort projects in Las Vegas, museums for the Smithsonian Institute and the DHS campus in Washington D.C. as well as foreign assignments like the Hilton Waterfront project in Tripoli, Libya. He rejoined WDI as a Project Executive to help deliver Shanghai Disneyland Resort. Peter currently resides in Tokyo, completing the Fantasy Springs project as Project Management Executive.
Sarah Bader, Representative Director and Principal, Gensler
As Managing Director for Gensler’s Tokyo office, I lead local and global teams and clients through delivering solutions that meet both the aesthetic and business requirements for clients around the world. With three years of leading the firm’s 300 person Chicago office, My strengths stem from analyzing strategic business goals through leading teams in creating world-class programming, space planning, conceptual development and design development. As a project director, I have spent two decades taking projects from concept through execution with an exceptional ability to understand issues and provide custom, client-focused solutions. My background spans across a wide variety of industries and project types, which have proven to be successful for large and small projects alike. From new high-rise hospitals in the heart of a city’s bustling downtown, to familiar and intimate workplace design, My constant curiosity has led me to travel the world, seeing design from multiple viewpoints, and create distinctive and compelling solutions for clients around the globe.
Andy Chew, Principal Landscape Architect, Walt Disney Imagineering
Graduate from Cal Poly State University, Pomona, with a bachelor of science in Landscape Architecture. Andy joined Walt Disney Imagineering in 2011 to support the design and development of Adventure Isle and Treasure Cove for Shanghai Disneyland. After SHDL, Andy joined the Tokyo team to support a number of projects primarily focused on early development. In 2013, the project now known as Fantasy Springs began its Blue-Sky phase. Andy worked closely with both WDI and OLC over the next ten years, leading the Area Development design team and ultimately relocating to Japan to oversee construction. Andy currently lives in Tokyo with his wife and daughter, completing the Fantasy Springs project as Principal Landscape Architect.
Mark Schirmer, Executive Creative Producer, Walt Disney Imagineering
For the past three years, Mark has been based in Japan and leads the Imagineering creative, in-field team as part of the largest expansion at the Tokyo Disney Resort - Fantasy Springs. It becomes the 8th Themed Port at Tokyo DisneySea and is set to grand open on June 6, 2024. Previously, Mark held the position of Creative Executive for Walt Disney Imagineering Asia where he was based in Hong Kong. He was involved as part of the leadership team for Walt Disney Imagineering-Asia supporting growth and development in the region as as the three Disney resorts in Shanghai, Tokyo and Hong Kong. In addition, he continued the Imagineering tradition of a creative outreach to the region's design/creative community and served 3 years as a Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) Board member. Mark was also positioned as the Director of Design Development for the Tokyo Disney Resort and based at the Resort in Maihama, Japan. His responsibilities included oversight of the existing property and collaborating with Park partners, including the Oriental Land Company to expand growth opportunities for the Resort. Prior to his role in Tokyo, Mark was Executive Creative Director of Mystic Point, the third chapter of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort's expansion projects. In his role, Mark oversaw the creative direction of the entire themed land, including the innovative Mystic Manor attraction. Mark has 35 years of experience at Walt Disney Imagineering. He began his Disney career as an intern at Walt Disney World in Orlando, before becoming a full-time Imagineer. Since that time, he has worked at every Disney resort, collaborating with various creative and project teams on a wide range of projects from concept to installation. Prior to joining Disney, Mark worked for two landscape architecture/planning firms in the United States, Peridian Group in southern California and Brickman Industries in Philadelphia, PA. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Landscape Architecture degree from the Ohio State University.
Sold Out
Thu 30 May
8:00 AM — 1:00 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown PLAZA B1F, Ishinki sculpture
Study Tour | Beyond the Neon Lights: Shibuya’s Transformation into a Sustainable Urban Oasis
Image credit: Shibuya Scramble Square
This walking tour through Shibuya delves into the district's ongoing transformation, offering a firsthand perspective on its evolution. The tour kicks off with a presentation on the redevelopment of Shibuya and properties along the railway line. We will move on to Shibuya Hikarie, where you will gain insights into the district's ongoing transformation. Witness cutting-edge innovation at QWS in Shibuya Scramble Square, followed by a breathtaking ascent to the Shibuya Sky observation deck for panoramic cityscapes. Immerse yourself in the local artistic spirit at the newly opened Hotel Indigo. Finally, the tour concludes at the reimagined Shibuya PARCO, a legendary landmark reborn in 2019. This multi-experience destination offers a unique blend of retail, food, and entertainment, culminating in a spiraling outdoor journey with rooftop views of Mount Fuji. The comprehensive tour unveils Shibuya's past, present, and future, showcasing its dynamic mix of modern development, vibrant arts scene, and iconic landmarks.
Meeting point: Tokyo Midtown
Bus transportation will only be provided from Tokyo Midtown to Shibuya. Participants will disperse after the last stop at Shibuya PARCO.
This is an all-weather tour. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Do take note of the rules for entry to Shibuya Sky.
Tour registration fee: US$50. Spaces on the tour are limited and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register here to sign up for the Asia Pacific Summit and select this study tour.
Already registered? Manage your Summit registration here to select this study tour or email Customer Service for assistance.
Thu 30 May
8:30 AM — 4:30 PM (GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo
Shinjuku Station, East Exit, Ground floor, Gold Lion statue
Study Tour | From Forest to Future: Exploring the Responsible Management of Okutama Forest
In August 2021, Nomura Real Estate (Nomura) entered into partnership with Okutama township to work towards preserving the biodiversity and rich natural environment of Tokyo's forests. Under this agreement, Nomura would actively acquire the forest to contribute toward solving social issues and promote sustainability. Now Nomura manages these forests, currently consisting of 74% cedar and cypress trees (with an average age of 63 years) and 26% broad-leaved trees, by applying forest management methods that contribute to biodiversity with an emphasis on environmental conservation. The forest is now certified as a 'Site for Symbiosis with Nature' by the Ministry of the Environment and approved by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for the Promotion of Wood Use Buildings, with policies evaluated by government investors.
With this tour, we will learn how Nomura is working to responsibly manage the forest area and sustainably introduce timber into the life cycle of Nomura's developments.
Broad tour itinerary:
- Overview presentation at Okutama+
- Tour of Tsunagu Forest by a nature guide commissioned by the Nature Education Research Center, Inc., and inspection of logging and forestation sites
- Lunch and sightseeing at Shiromaru Dam and Kazumasa Bridge scenic spot on the upper reaches of the Tama River
- Visit to an Okutama processing plant
Meeting point: Shinjuku Station
The group will depart by train for JR Ome station from Shinjuku station.
This is an all-weather tour. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Spaces on the tour are limited and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register here to sign up for the Asia Pacific Summit and select this study tour.
Already registered? Manage your Summit registration here to select this study tour or email Customer Service for assistance.