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Lunchtime Talk Session in Collaboration with HERALBONY Inc.
Overview
On Oct. 28, 2025, we hosted a lunchtime talk session for firm members featuring executives from HERALBONY Inc., a client of the firm and organizer of HERALBONY Art Prize 2025, which Nishimura & Asahi sponsors. The session welcomed Takaya Matsuda, representative director and co-CEO of HERALBONY, and Yujin Gen, executive officer and chief legal officer, who is also a lawyer and a Nishimura & Asahi alumni. 150 people attended the hybrid event.
The program consisted of two parts:
Part 1: Dialogue — “From Japan: New Horizons for an Affluent and Fair Society”
Speakers: Takaya Matsuda (HERALBONY, Co-CEO) and Ryutaro Nakayama (Managing Partner, Nishimura & Asahi)
Part 2: Panel Discussion — “The Social Impact Nishimura & Asahi Creates with its Clients”
Panelists: Yujin Gen (HERALBONY, CLO), Akihisa Yamamoto (Partner, Nishimura & Asahi), and Chiharu Tokunaga (Professional Assistance Department)
Moderator: Arisa Inuzuka (Partner, Nishimura & Asahi)
Dialogue: “From Japan: New Horizons for an Affluent and Fair Society”
Nishimura & Asahi has sponsored the HERALBONY Art Prize since its inaugural year (2024). HERALBONY’s rapid growth and expanding global presence have drawn attention both in Japan and abroad. Central to this success is the company’s approach of presenting works on their own artistic merit, rather than framing them through labels such as “art by people with disabilities,” “SDGs,” or “diversity and inclusion.”
During the dialogue, Ryutaro Nakayama highlighted Nishimura & Asahi’s mission to realize an affluent and fair society based on the rule of law, emphasizing that the firm’s client-first approach also aims to contribute to positive social change. He noted that deeply understanding the value a client brings to society helps lawyers offer their best support. He described HERALBONY’s challenges and growth as a powerful source of inspiration for the firm.
Referring to the firm’s slogan, Leading You Forward, Ryutaro noted that lawyers are often seen primarily as representing clients through the rule of law. However, Nishimura & Asahi positions itself as a proactive partner that moves forward together with its clients and society—at times taking the lead, and at times being led by its clients. The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to continue walking alongside clients and, together, creating new value going forward.
Panel Discussion: “The Social Impact Nishimura & Asahi Creates with its Clients”
The panel discussion centered on three themes: professional fulfillment, the value the firm provides to innovative clients such as HERALBONY, and messages for lawyers and staff. This panel discussion featured Yujin Gen from HERALBONY, along with Akihisa Yamamoto, the company’s outside counsel, and Chiharu Tokunaga, a professional assistant from Nishimura & Asahi.
The panelists shared their perspectives on their daily sense of fulfillment, how they engage with clients, and how gaining a deeper understanding of clients connects directly to their professional responsibilities. The session offered practical insights into building trust with clients, providing valuable takeaways for both lawyers and staff and making it a highly instructive and meaningful discussion.
Participant Feedback
Post-session surveys reflected strong engagement and positive reactions. Many participants commented that hearing more about Nishimura & Asahi and HERALBONY’s collaboration made them feel proud to be part of the firm. Others noted that the session reinforced the importance of understanding the broader significance of a client’s activities.
Several respondents also remarked that hearing candid client perspectives, alongside insights from both lawyers and staff, demonstrated how the firm’s values and its Leading You Forward promise are embodied in daily practice.
Looking Ahead
This session clarified the shared social goals between HERALBONY and Nishimura & Asahi and provided an opportunity to reaffirm the meaning and impact of legal services through client voices. It also encouraged participants to reflect on the role legal professionals play in shaping society.
We will continue working alongside its clients in pursuit of its mission to realize an affluent and fair society grounded in the rule of law.