Department profile
Clifford Chance LLP

Projects & Energy: Domestic

Asia-Pacific Guide 2026 : Japan


Clifford Chance LLP

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Projects & Energy: Domestic - Japan

Band 2

Band 2


What the Team is Known For

Clifford Chance's legal team in Japan regularly represents high-profile clients in a range of domestic and cross-border project development, finance and operation matters. Its team of international lawyers works closely with domestic bengoshi to provide clients with a one-stop-shop service. The team represents significant corporate and financial clients in infrastructure, mining, power and renewable energy matters, including the financing and development of onshore and overseas wind farm projects.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Clifford Chance advised JBIC and other Japanese banks as lenders on the approximately USD800 million financing of the development of upstream offshore gas fields and construction of an offshore gas transportation pipeline in Vietnam.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Clifford Chance showed leadership that allowed them to lead tough negotiations. They were also able to accurately understand our needs and quickly reflect them in negotiations and contract drafting.

    Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific
  • We appreciated the practicality of their advice, taking the actual business situation into consideration.

    Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Yusuke Abe
    Band 1Yusuke Abe

    Yusuke Abe

    Yusuke Abe is a partner in Tokyo and a popular choice of legal counsel on project financing matters, advising a range of multinational and domestic clients. He frequently advises on the development and financing of renewable energy projects.

    • He has ample experience in the field of finance, and he always provides us with accurate advice in a timely manner.

      Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific
    • Yusuke Abe is a highly proactive and client-focused partner, consistently prioritising the needs of his clients with a tailored approach.

      Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific
  • Band 3Hans Menski
    Band 3Hans Menski

    Hans Menski

    Hans Menski is an established figure in the Japanese projects market. He regularly assists clients with project finance matters, acting for a range of domestic and multinational clients.
    • Aside from providing competent advice at key points, he was very capable of leading the discussions.

      Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific
    • Hans Menski was excellent in terms of expertise, teaming and communication skills.

      Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific
  • Associates to watchAsh Williams
    Associates to watchAsh Williams

    Ash Williams

    Ash Williams is senior associate in Tokyo. He is highly regarded for his client-oriented approach and capable handling of negotiations.

    • He always provided timely, calm and accurate advice despite many requests with tight timelines during the negotiation process.

      Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific
    • Ash Williams negotiated tenaciously. I am grateful that he was able to provide me with multiple options from the client's point of view for breaking through complex situations.

      Projects & Energy: Domestic respondentAsia-Pacific

Ranked Individuals at Clifford Chance LLP (3)

Japan

Clifford Chance LLP has rankings in the following guides

What success is built on

Chambers is the leading data and intelligence partner for the legal sector.

Explore thought leadership