Building Sustainable Communities for a Better Future
We create long-term value through innovative real estate projects that benefit people and places.
About Us
Daruma was founded with a mission to give back to the community and create meaningful change. With four decades of real estate experience in both Japan and the United States, our founder Masayuki Ueda established Daruma to deliver projects that bring long-term value to both people and places. Our journey, built on vision and resilience, is focused on redefining urban growth to benefit the entire community.
100%
Profits dedicated to solving homelessness
20M+
Projected annual tourism boost through international town
$23.5B
Tourism and hospitality impact forecast for san diego
17,200+
Homes planned to create thriving, inclusive neighborhoods
* Estimated by Daruma
Vision & Mission
We are committed to sustainable development that strengthens San Diego’s economy while addressing homelessness and housing shortages. By creating vibrant retail, cultural destinations, and community-focused projects, we aim to foster healthier neighborhoods and generate lasting benefits for residents and the city alike.
Our Leadership Team
Leading Daruma with over 35 years of experience in real estate development across Japan and the U.S.
Masayuki Ueda
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
With more than 35 years of experience in real estate development across Japan and the U.S., Masayuki has led project ranging from large-scale urban redevelop See more..
Thomas Vajda
Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer
Thomas brings deep expertise in real estate operations and management. As a broker associate and See more…
Mayuko Ikeda
Chief Operating Officer
Mayuko oversees the implementation of Daruma’s strategies and plays a key role in aligning partners toward share goals. With experience as a real estate b See more…
Madoka Martin
Vice President
Madoka is a real estate agent specializing in residential and commercial properties across Southern California. Drawing on extensive international business See more….
Akinobu Sogabe
Chief Program officer
With extensive leadership experience as President of the San Diego Japanese Business Association and the San Diego Business Group, Akinobu brings deep See more ….
Tomoko Motoyama
Chief Community Development Officer
Tomoko leads Daruma’s community development efforts in San Diego, working closely with local partners, civic leaders, and businesses to bring projects to life. See more..
Sustainability
Focus on creating projects that are environmentally sustainable and economically viable.
Inclusivity
Ensuring developments are inclusive, with a focus on affordable housing and community spaces.
Community Impact
We are committed to building projects that enhance the local economy and create lasting benefits for residents.
[ Our Approach ]
Building Communities That Last
Our approach is centered around resilience, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Connect Project
Japan Town & International Town
[ Our Future projects ]
Transforming Neighborhoods
Our Projects focus on creating sustainable communities by providing affordable housing, essential services, and opportunities for economic growth through initiatives like Hillcrest Connect and Japan Town.