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.