On March 3, 2025, Itochu Corporation, one of Japan's leading general trading companies, proudly announced the opening of its new women's dormitory located in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture. This state-of-the-art facility, which consolidates two existing dormitories, is part of the company's initiative to promote employee well-being and facilitate communication among female staff.
The dormitory comprises 97 private rooms intended for young female employees, particularly those entering the company. The construction was completed by Nishimatsu Construction Co., Ltd., under a new wooden building method called the P&UA construction method, which utilizes wood as the primary structural material. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the shelter but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions—specifically by 458 tons of CO2 compared to traditional steel constructions.
Speaking at the completion ceremony, Keita Ishii, president and COO of Itochu Corporation, remarked, "The building is not only environmentally friendly but ensures safety and comfort for our employees." This dormitory is strategically positioned to break down traditional departmental silos, fostering vertical and horizontal communication across various age groups and job functions. Vice President Fumihiko Kobayashi echoed this sentiment, stating, "Through dormitory living, we hope to deepen connections across generations and departments." This integrated approach is aimed at enhancing collaborative skills and strengthening bonds within the workforce.
Beyond design and structure, the dormitory also aims to improve the quality of sleep for its residents. All rooms feature the latest high-precision sensing mattresses from Nishikawa, known for their advanced sleep technology. These mattresses are equipped with sensors capable of tracking various sleep metrics, including heart rate and breathing patterns, providing residents insights for enhancing their sleep quality via the associated sleep app, goomo.
The integration of advanced technology serves as part of Itochu's broader goal of promoting a health-conscious work environment. "This will provide young professionals the optimal working environment as they start their careers," said Kobayashi, during his opening remarks. The ability to monitor sleep precision paired with the company's emphasis on health management showcases their commitment to employee welfare.
Incidental features of the dormitory include communal spaces such as relaxation lounges and shared kitchens, purposefully integrated to encourage interaction and collaboration among employees. This collaborative environment under the "one roof" concept marks Itochu’s commitment to cultivate professional relationships through daily interactions.
To add to the security and seamless experience for residents, NEС has provided facial recognition technology for the entry management system. With enhanced safety measures and comfort amenities, employees can feel secure and supported during their time within the dormitories.
Established to inspire healthier lifestyles, this new dormitory does not only house employees but serves as the foundation of Itochu's commitment to long-term growth—promoting both personal and professional development. The new facility reflects the company's recognition of the pivotal role of well-being and interpersonal communication among employees, undoubtedly enhancing its corporate culture.
This innovative project reflects growing awareness among corporations of the need to invest not only in infrastructure but also the well-being of their workforce, aiming for sustainable development and increased productivity. Itochu Corporation’s new women’s dormitory sets out to champion such ideals, showing the direction forward for corporate Japan. The impact of this initiative, focused heavily on providing superior living conditions, is anticipated to resonate positively within the intra-corporate dynamic, nurturing the next generation of business leaders.