Clifford Chance (Gaikokuho Kyodo Jigyo)’s real estate team in Tokyo offers broad expertise that encompasses asset acquisitions and divestments, developments, M&A, equity capital raisings, and joint ventures, among other matters. Practice head Yoshiaki Shimizu specialises in real estate finance, but also acts for financial institutions, real estate and sovereign wealth funds, developers, and trading companies in investments, developments, structured finance, and fund regulations. Leng-Fong Lai assists sponsors and financiers with various kinds of real estate investments and financings, including cross-border mezzanine loans. Yusuke Abe and Natsuko Sugihara are key contacts in the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Yoshiaki Shimizu is a standout member of the real estate team. His in-depth knowledge of the domestic real estate finance landscape, combined with his exceptional ability to collaborate with colleagues in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Germany, makes him an invaluable asset to clients.’
‘They are familiar both with Japan and the investor's country.’
‘Clifford Chance distinguishes itself through its seamless integration of global expertise with deep local market knowledge. The team's ability to navigate complex cross-border transactions is unparalleled. Potential clients can expect comprehensive services through diverse jurisdictions such as Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Germany.’
‘Their real estate team has good local knowledge.'
Key clients
- PIMCO Prime Real Estate
Work highlights
Advised PIMCO Prime Real Estate (formerly known as Allianz Real Estate, rebranded as of 1 March 2023) on its series of acquisitions of residential portfolio under the fund platform formed by PIMCO Prime Real Estate and co-invested by Ivanhoe Cambridge.
Lawyers
Leading partners: Bengoshi
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners: Bengoshi
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Yoshiaki Shimizu
Other key lawyers
Leng-Fong Lai; Yusuke Abe; Natsuko Sugihara