Toshin Development, a real estate arm of Takashimaya Group (Japan), officially breaks ground on Westlake Square Hanoi at Starlake Urban Area. The project is expected to help redefine the standards of premium retail in Hanoi.
A Strategic Milestone in Hanoi for Toshin Development
Hanoi, August 2, 2025 – Toshin Development Co., Ltd. officially held the groundbreaking ceremony for Westlake Square Hanoi, a multi-functional complex located at the heart of Starlake Urban Area, featuring premium retail and office spaces. This flagship project marks a strategic step forward in Toshin Development’s journey to expand its presence in the capital city’s market.
Westlake Square Hanoi – The New Retail Landmark at the Heart of Starlake
Westlake Square Hanoi aspires to become Hanoi’s new retail landmark, seamlessly integrating shopping, working, and leisure spaces to international standards. Positioned in the vibrant Starlake Urban Area, the project will deliver a distinctive commercial experience and contribute to completing the high-end urban ecosystem in the West of Hanoi.
Notably, Westlake Square Hanoi will mark the debut of Takashimaya Department Store in Hanoi – one of Japan’s most historic and prestigious department store brands. This milestone not only paves the way for a wave of international brands to enter the western market of the capital, but also reaffirms Takashimaya’s pioneering role in elevating the retail experience in Vietnam. With its well-planned layout and premium positioning, the project is expected to quickly become the new shopping destination for the modern consumer class.
More than just a shopping center, Westlake Square Hanoi is being developed by Toshin Development with a strong focus on enhancing the user experience. This vision is reflected in its sophisticated spatial design, meticulous services, and an optimized customer journey throughout the retail environment. The philosophy of “Omotenashi” – the spirit of wholehearted hospitality rooted in Japanese culture – will be applied throughout the operation, creating a destination that is not only commercial but also a space for cultural exchange and modern urban lifestyles in the capital. The project also stands as a testament to Toshin Development’s long-term commitment to creating developments of lasting value, operated sustainably and in harmony with the dynamic growth of Hanoi.
With a vision for environmentally friendly development, the project has been implemented from the outset in accordance with strict international green building standards, aiming to achieve LEED Platinum certification – the highest level in the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) rating system. This is not merely a technical choice, but also a reflection of a responsible development philosophy that values harmony between architectural spaces, communities, and the environment.
A Vision from the Japanese Developer
Speaking at the event, Mr. Shinsuke Kuramoto – President and CEO of Toshin Development – shared:
“Westlake Square Hanoi is a flagship project of the Takashimaya Group in Hanoi. We are mobilizing all our resources to realize the goal of developing a top-quality shopping center within the next two years. At Toshin Development, we do not simply construct buildings; we aim to create emotional landmarks – places that preserve memories and connect communities. This is the essence of our core development philosophy, ‘Make the Mind Symbol,’ which we have always pursued. This project is a clear testament to that commitment.”
Mr. Matthew Powell – Director of Savills Hanoi – commented:
“The participation of prestigious international brands such as Takashimaya reflects strong confidence in the long-term potential of Hanoi’s market. The Starlake area is emerging as a preferred destination for global retailers, with new projects like Westlake Square Hanoi helping to complete a high-quality commercial and service ecosystem aligned with modern consumer trends.”
With a total floor area of approximately 43,000 m² in its first phase, Westlake Square Hanoi will feature a shopping center from basement level B1 to the 6th floor, and premium office space from the 7th to the 10th floor. The project is being developed as a multi-functional integrated complex, designed to flexibly meet the needs of international retail brands as well as businesses seeking high-quality office space in Hanoi’s western district.
Westlake Square Hanoi, also known as Takashimaya Hanoi, occupies a prime “diamond” location on Lot C1CC1, right at the intersection of two main boulevards in the Starlake Hanoi urban area. The project’s land plot spans over 1.72 hectares, master-planned to feature a 10-storey shopping center (Phase 1) and a 35-storey office tower (Phase 2). Surrounding the retail complex are numerous residential towers, the Shilla Hotel, Samsung’s R&D center, Grade A office buildings, commercial low-rise properties, and the new state administrative center.
In addition to its advantages in planning and location, Westlake Square Hanoi stands out with its modern architectural design, comprehensive amenities, and an operational approach aligned with international standards. It is also the first commercial project in Hanoi to be comprehensively developed by Toshin Development – from planning and design to operations management – ensuring consistency in quality and experience for both tenants and consumers.
Once operational, Westlake Square Hanoi is expected not only to add high-quality retail supply to the market but also to elevate the landscape of the Tay Ho Tay area, establishing itself as a new hub for shopping, working, and lifestyle experiences in the capital.
