Haseko Corporation's Role in the Registration of Asuka Fujiwara as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Celebrating Cultural Heritage: Haseko Corporation's Commitment to Asuka Fujiwara

Haseko Corporation, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has officially congratulated the registration of the Asuka Fujiwara cultural heritage site on July 26, 2026, as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognition comes after the company’s extensive and ongoing contributions to the region. On August 11, the chairman of Haseko, Noritaka Tsuji, was honored with the title of honorary citizen of Asuka Village in appreciation of these efforts.

Since 2015, Haseko Corporation has been actively involved in promoting local agricultural products within its managed condominiums, significantly enhancing regional support and the local economy. By signing a comprehensive cooperation agreement with Asuka Village and the Asuka Village Regional Promotion Public Interest Incorporated Foundation in September 2017, the company launched a series of initiatives centered around experiencing local vegetables, tourism, and hospitality.

The implementation of the corporate hometown tax system has been particularly beneficial since 2018, directing resources towards the preservation and rejuvenation of historic landscapes in the ancient city of Asuka. This includes improving agricultural facilities, addressing wildlife threats, and restoring the Kanegusuka Tomb—one of the site’s significant attributes. Additionally, environmental efforts have seen the maintenance of bamboo groves surrounding the Sakubune Stone site.

In terms of agricultural promotion, Haseko has supported the development of the Asuka Community Farm, which includes a rental farming initiative. The company is renowned for its involvement in the Asuka Half Marathon, offering special sponsorship since its inaugural event and consistently providing over 300 employee volunteers for logistical support.

Haseko's collaboration extends to educational experiences, such as baseball clinics led by local professional athletes and fencing events conducted by its employees who are national representatives. This commitment to youth engagement, including the establishment of new hospitality and dining facilities, aims to immerse visitors in the rich history, culture, and nature of Asuka.

Through these diverse initiatives, Haseko Corporation’s long-standing engagement in community revitalization has provided a platform for enhancing the attractiveness and sustainability of Asuka. The combination of employee-led community exchange programs, civic enterprise cooperation, and the proactive use of the corporate hometown tax system has culminated in the honorary title bestowed on Chairman Tsuji.

Looking forward, Haseko Corporation is dedicated to collaborating with Asuka Village to support efforts in passing down the value of this UNESCO World Heritage site to future generations. The goal is to create new value by leveraging unique regional attributes and resources, while also expanding the community’s relational population. The company will continue to strive for the sustained development and value enhancement of Asuka, ensuring that the cultural richness of this unique area continues to thrive for years to come.