On April 18, 2025, a new shopping destination opened its doors in Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture, as Mitsui Fudosan launched "Lalaport Anjo." This grand opening attracted a remarkable crowd, with approximately 1,300 eager customers queuing up before the official opening time of 9:30 AM, which was a full 30 minutes earlier than scheduled. The excitement surrounding the event reflects the growing interest in retail experiences in the region.
The new facility boasts an impressive lineup of 215 stores, including 31 that are making their debut in Aichi Prefecture. This four-story building, constructed with a steel frame, spans an area of about 60,000 square meters, making it a significant addition to the local shopping landscape. The diverse range of stores includes general merchandise shops, restaurants, and unique experiences designed to attract families and visitors from afar.
Among the highlights of Lalaport Anjo is the indoor leisure facility called "Takaratommy Planet," which is the second of its kind in Japan, following a location in Koto Ward, Tokyo. This innovative space features eight types of experience-based attractions, utilizing digital technology to engage children, particularly those aged 2 to 17. The cost for a 30-minute visit during weekdays is set at 800 yen per person, with an initial annual membership fee of 600 yen required for families. The facility aims to capitalize on the region's high interest in educational toys and experiences.
Additionally, the shopping center includes a food court featuring 37 eateries that offer a variety of Japanese and Western cuisine. Notably, it marks the first location in Aichi for the "Takumi Gatten Sushi" chain, alongside a new concept restaurant called "Cooking and Parlor YOSHIMI," which focuses on family-friendly menus. The center's design emphasizes a playful atmosphere, aligning with its overarching theme of "&PLAY," which encourages interaction and enjoyment.
In terms of facilities, Lalaport Anjo boasts the largest rooftop playground in Japan, equipped with 46 pieces of play equipment, including swings and giant slides. This rooftop area is designed to accommodate families year-round, with nearly half of the space covered to protect against inclement weather. The central space on the first floor is outfitted with a large screen and sound system, enabling events such as three-on-three basketball games and live music performances, providing a vibrant community hub for shoppers.
Local officials, including Aichi Prefecture Governor Hideaki Omura, attended the opening ceremony and expressed optimism about the center's role in boosting the local economy. Omura noted that the opening of Lalaport Anjo would contribute to the region's vibrancy, especially with the upcoming completion of an outlet park in Okazaki City scheduled for autumn 2025. This development is expected to further enhance the shopping landscape in the area, which is already home to numerous automotive-related businesses.
As Lalaport Anjo aims for annual sales of approximately 35 billion yen and hopes to attract around 10 million visitors each year, its strategic location is also a key factor in its anticipated success. The shopping center is conveniently situated within a 10-minute walk from JR Tokaido Main Line's Anjo Station and a 14-minute walk from the Nagoya Railroad Nishio Line's Kita-Anjo Station. This accessibility is expected to draw not only local residents but also visitors from surrounding areas.
However, the influx of visitors has raised concerns regarding traffic congestion, particularly as the primary access routes to Lalaport Anjo overlap with major roads near the station. To address these issues, Mitsui Fudosan plans to implement vehicle guidance systems utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) cameras to help alleviate potential traffic jams.
Overall, the grand opening of Lalaport Anjo marks a significant milestone for retail in Aichi Prefecture, promising a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences that cater to families and visitors alike. With its innovative features and commitment to community engagement, it stands poised to become a beloved destination in the region.
