Ise Hotel (left) and Izumo Hotel
Luxury residential property developer Lead Real Estate Co., Ltd (LRE) was prominently featured in a recent report on tourism hospitality published by Newsweek International, entitled Deep Japan: How Culture, Comfort and Curiosity Are Shaping Tomorrow’s Journeys.
LRE’s Jinryu Hotel Series, with properties located near significant Japanese cultural landmarks, was included in the coverage of Japan’s evolving hospitality sector.
The editorial discussed broad trends shaping Japan’s travel and hospitality landscape and appeared on Newsweek International’s digital platform as part of its global coverage. The content was produced as sponsored editorial material and was not prepared by the Company.
And in an interview on January 30 with World Folio business website, LRE CEO Eiji Nagahara said of Japan’s booming inbound tourism market, “The younger generation today doesn’t carry that same burden of wartime memories. We’ve entered an era where people—especially in the US and Europe—see Japan not through the lens of the past but with fresh curiosity and appreciation. That generational shift has opened the door for many to experience Japan as it truly is.”
He also said many international visitors are drawn to Japan’s deep spiritual and cultural traditions, particularly Buddhism. “There’s a growing global interest in mindfulness, simplicity and spiritual balance—values that are deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Combined with the country’s technological sophistication, efficient transportation such as the Shinkansen, and its globally celebrated cuisine, these factors make Japan uniquely attractive.”
He added that the so-called Golden Route—Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka—has always been the main attraction for first-time visitors to Japan. “But beyond those major cities, there are countless destinations of remarkable natural beauty and deep cultural character. Personally, I would recommend two regions above all: Hokkaido in the north and Okinawa in the south. Hokkaido is blessed with magnificent nature, delicious food and many hot springs. Okinawa, on the other hand, offers an entirely different charm with its subtropical climate, stunning beaches and distinct culture shaped by its Ryukyu heritage. Tohoku, too, is wonderful—especially for travelers who enjoy onsen culture and a slower, more traditional pace of life.”
On the perceived skilled labor shortage, he said, “From my perspective, Japan’s so-called labor shortage is not as serious as people think—at least not for us. If you only look at the Japanese labor pool, it may seem challenging, but our workforce is already international.
“We have many dedicated and skilled staff from across Asia—China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and other countries—who contribute significantly. They are responsible, multilingual and highly capable. So, our operations naturally function in an international environment, which suits our guest demographics. We don’t limit ourselves by nationality. What matters is passion and ability, not where someone comes from. In our hotels, diversity strengthens us—it’s not a problem to solve, but an asset to embrace.”
LRE has around 20 new hotel projects underway, he explained. “Some are already under construction—such as one in front of Shinjuku Gyoen—and others are in Ueno, Meguro and Gakugei Daigaku, which is known as one of Tokyo’s most creative neighborhoods. These upcoming hotels will span all three of LRE’s core brands: Ent Terrace, Jinryu and the Global Design series. “We’ve already secured land in several prime locations, and we’re moving forward with development.”
About Lead Real Estate Co., Ltd
LRE is a Japanese developer of luxury residential properties, including single-family homes and condominiums, across Tokyo, Kanagawa Prefecture and Sapporo. In addition, the Company operates hotels in Tokyo and leases apartment building units to individual customers in Japan and Dallas, Texas.
LRE’s mission is to serve customers by offering stylish, safe and luxurious living. LRE’s vision is to adopt the kaizen (improvement) approach to continually improve its operations and to leverage its nationally recognized, award-winning luxury homes and strong market position in the luxury residential property market in Tokyo, Kanagawa Prefecture and Sapporo to create a global transaction platform allowing access to prime Japanese condominiums as well as overseas condominiums, including in the US and Hong Kong.
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