Reviving Centuries-Old Cinemas: Future of Apartment Management

The influence of historic buildings on urban renewal is undeniable. This is particularly true in Matsumoto, Nagano, where the centennial Agetsu Cinema is undergoing a remarkable transformation aimed at revitalizing the local shopping district. The phenomenon of vacant stores and dwindling foot traffic in commercial areas has become a pressing issue across Japan, necessitating innovative strategies to breathe life back into these communities.

On November 20, 2025, the Apartment Future Value Research Institute, a part of the Daiwa House Group, will host a free online seminar entitled "Urban Revitalization near Matsumoto Castle: A Real Story of Agetsu Cinema's Revival." This event, exclusively for members of the institute's mailing list, will feature Toshi Hiro Momose, the president of Large Hill Inc., as the guest speaker. This seminar intends to shed light on how revitalizing Agetsu Cinema is not just about restoring a building; it involves reconstructing the cultural value of the community in a multifaceted manner.

In the seminar, participants will learn about the challenges and successes associated with refurbishing Agetsu Cinema, once a cultural staple, and its impact on the surrounding commercial district. Attendees will explore how apartment management can play a vital role in solving local issues and contributing to urban renewal.

Seminar Overview

Theme: Urban Revitalization near Matsumoto Castle—A Real Story of Agetsu Cinema's Revival
Date: November 20, 2025
Time: 16:00 JST
Platform: Online via Zoom Webinar
Participation: Free for mailing list members of the Apartment Future Value Research Institute
Guest Speaker: Toshi Hiro Momose, President of Large Hill Inc.

Toshi Hiro Momose graduated from the University of Tokyo's Faculty of Engineering and initially worked at Recruit Co., gaining experience in the system division and corporate planning. In 2005, he transitioned to Netmile Inc., where he contributed to new business development before establishing Large Hill Inc. in 2008. In addition, he has served as the Executive Director of the Agetsu Cinema Museum since 2012, emphasizing his commitment to cultural preservation.

The event will be moderated by Yoko Kubo, the director of the Apartment Future Value Research Institute, who brings a wealth of experience from her past roles in real estate and her expertise in condominium management. Kubo is also known for her book about the future of condos, which received an award from the Real Estate Association.

About the Apartment Future Value Research Institute

Founded in 2019, the Apartment Future Value Research Institute stands out as a pioneering comprehensive research facility in Japan's condominium management industry. The organization was established to address the challenges of aging residents, rising management costs, and the scarcity of sufficient maintenance funds in condominiums, which have become vital components of Japan's social infrastructure. The institute aims to analyze these issues and propose fresh strategies for creating value within condominiums, thus benefiting broader community interests.

For those interested in attending the upcoming seminar, registration is a straightforward process available through the Apartment Future Value Research Institute's website, where you can also sign up as a member of their mailing list.

Venue of Information Dissemination

The seminar will take place at the revamped Akasaka Plasta, a dynamic information dissemination platform that was renovated in April 2022 by Daiwa Life Next. This facility is equipped with large studios suitable for live audiences, fostering an environment for dialogue among professionals from various sectors including government and academia, as well as young researchers and NPOs. Akasaka Plasta aims to encourage exchanges that yield versatile insights and make them accessible to the public both online and offline.

Company Overview

Daiwa Life Next Inc.

- President: Eiichi Saito
- Capital: 1.301 billion yen
- Founded: March 8, 1983
- Location: Akasaka 5-1-33, Minato, Tokyo
- Services: Comprehensive building management for condominiums, rental apartments, commercial buildings, hotels, and more, including corporate support services.
- Website: Daiwa Life Next Corporate Site