Withers Japan, Zeirishi Houjin’s real estate practice remains active in the digital infrastructure space and continues to specialise in green financings. Gerald Fujii focuses on advising real estate investment funds, REITs, and lenders on cross-border acquisitions, financings, and development projects. Naoki Ueyama is noted for his experience acting for Japanese and international investors and financial institutions in real estate finance transactions. Toshihiko Tsuchiya’s practice covers the securitisation and liquidation of real estate assets, including TMK-structured development deals. Akinari Nakano is also a key contact in the group. Steven Wheeler left the practice in 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Toshihiko Tsuchiya and Akinari Nakano are very experienced business lawyers, offering extensive experience in protecting our legal/business interests and handling complex real estate acquisition/ financing transactions in an efficient way. Both have been involved in numerous transactions for our platform in Japan and have resolved complex issues.'
‘Tsuchiya Toshihiko from Withers has demonstrated his ability to balance legal considerations and practical business considerations. He is able to provide clear, actionable advice that directly aligns with clients' business interests, making the transaction smooth and efficient. His pragmatic approach and thorough understanding of the commercial real estate market is invaluable.'
‘The team seems to have ample experience in Japanese real estate transactions.'
‘Their experience and knowledge is extensive in Japan's real estate space and they respond quickly to resolve complicated transaction and business needs. Lawyers are flexible and considering their experience, their fee levels are reasonable. ’
‘A reliable and experienced team with expertise and knowledge in a very wide range of fields. The team culture is very entrepreneurial and open to new challenges and ideas which helped us make investments in new market and new sectors in Japan.’
‘Very talented and seasoned individuals mixed with young and energetic talents supporting.’
‘This practice stands out for its client-centric approach. The team has extensive experience and understanding in the commercial real estate in Japan. Their turnaround time for critical documents is above clients' expectations, and it also demonstrates the team's commitment to meeting tight timelines and maintaining high service standards.’
Key clients
- Alyssa Partners Japan
- Capital Land
- CLSA Capital
- Deutsche Bank
- JP Morgan
- LaSalle Investment Management
- Maiora Asset Management Pte Ltd
- Mapletree Investments
- Morgan Stanley
- Nuveen
- PAG Investment Management Ltd.
- Shinsei Bank
- Starwood Capital Asia Limited
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Gerald Fujii, Naoki Ueyama, Toshihiko Tsuchiya