Department profile
A&O Shearman

Projects & Energy: International

Asia-Pacific Guide 2026 : Japan


A&O Shearman

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Projects & Energy: International - Japan

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

A&O Shearman has a highly respected team of lawyers in Tokyo, frequently instructed by major Japanese lenders and sponsors, as well as prominent borrowers, on the financing of power, mining and LNG projects across Asia and Australia. The team also has deep ties to the biggest ECAs in Japan and South Korea and is adept at handling international solar and offshore wind projects. The law firm leverages its strong Singapore office to provide support for major infrastructure projects throughout the region and also leverages its strong global presence to represent East Asian lenders and sponsors in projects as far afield as the Middle East and Africa.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • A&O Shearman advised the Japan Bank for International Cooperation on its USD1 billion loan agreement with Woodside Finance to support components adjacent to the Scarborough Energy Project in Western Australia.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • A&O Shearman is a leading law firm with a strong practice in Japan.

    Projects & Energy: International respondentAsia-Pacific
  • They are very impressive. Although only a small team is involved, they understand the issues in a very wide range and what they need to do to support the client.

    Projects & Energy: International respondentAsia-Pacific

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Scott Neilson
    Band 1Scott Neilson

    Scott Neilson

    Scott Neilson is managing partner of the Tokyo office and has a stellar reputation for his work on both domestic and international project development and financing mandates. He also offers significant experience in energy sector investments, advising on both inbound and outbound transactions.

    • Scott Neilson is very commercial and very knowledgeable in the LNG space.

      Projects & Energy: International respondentAsia-Pacific
  • Band 3Rintaro Hirano
    Band 3Rintaro Hirano

    Rintaro Hirano

    Rintaro Hirano offers notable experience in infrastructure matters in Japan. He is best known for his work advising clients on the full range of corporate legal issues, including airport concession agreements and joint ventures.
    • He communicates closely with clients, fully understands their needs and accurately provides the most effective advice based on his experience.

      Projects & Energy: International respondentAsia-Pacific
  • Up and ComingHitomi Komachi
    Up and ComingHitomi Komachi

    Hitomi Komachi

    Hitomi Komachi offers extensive experience in financings for energy-related projects, including renewable energy projects and petrochemical projects. Her expertise is often sought by Japanese financial entities.

    • I am very grateful and appreciative. She is prompt and proactive.

      Projects & Energy: International respondentAsia-Pacific

Ranked Individuals at A&O Shearman (3)

Japan

A&O Shearman has rankings in the following guides

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