New Arena Construction Project in Yasu City, Shiga Prefecture Selected for National 'Sports Industry Growth Promotion' Program!

◆Overview

The project to construct a new arena, currently being explored by the Shiga Lakestars Foundation in collaboration with Yasu City, Shiga Prefecture, has been selected for the Japan Sports Agency's 'Sports Complex Promotion Project' under the FY2026 Sports Industry Growth Promotion Program.

◆What is the Sports Complex Promotion Project?

This is a national government initiative aimed at maximizing the drawing power of arenas and stadiums, utilizing them not merely as 'box' structures but as 'complex facilities' that serve as catalysts for regional revitalization. The 'Basic Concept and Planning Support' portion of the program supports the formulation of integrated area management plans, including multi-purpose usage such as sports exhibitions, concerts, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), as well as creating synergies with surrounding lodging and commercial facilities.

◇Comment: Shinsuke Sakai, Chairman, Shiga Lakestars Foundation

I am delighted that the potential of the Yasu Arena project has been recognized, as I believe this is a necessary facility for the future of Shiga. Towards the realization of our slogan, 'Let's Create Shiga's Dream Entertainment Arena,' we will spend this year building highly concrete architectural, operational, and financial plans while seeking consensus with Yasu City and our stakeholders.

◇Comment: Naoki Sakuramoto, Mayor of Yasu City

I sincerely welcome this project selection. I take it as proof that the Foundation's proposal of 'creating new regional value with an arena at its core' has been highly evaluated, and that our city's vision for the development around the south exit of Yasu Station aligns with the government's pursuit of regional revitalization.

◆What is the Yasu Arena Project?

Shiga Lakestars Foundation established a preparatory office in April 2025 under the slogan 'Let's Create Shiga's Dream Entertainment Arena.' While aiming to build an arena with a capacity of approximately 6,000—the largest scale in Shiga Prefecture—they have begun full-scale discussions with Yasu City using the area in front of JR Yasu Station as a candidate site, and are advancing partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

Located almost in the center of Shiga Prefecture, Yasu City is attractive for its good accessibility from both the Kansai and Tokai regions. The foundation aims to revitalize the economy of the entire prefecture by hosting 100 events annually, attracting 500,000 to 600,000 people through basketball and volleyball games featuring professional teams, as well as music concerts and MICE events.

◇The Japan Sports Agency's support period lasts until March 2027. Planned initiatives include:

・Formulation of a Basic Concept and Plan: Conducting issue surveys in Yasu City to develop a plan including a medium-to-long-term income and expenditure plan.
・Building consensus with stakeholders: Collaborating with surrounding municipalities, residents, businesses, and related organizations.

Yasu City is also conducting social experiments utilizing the station square as a place of relaxation for citizens. Plans are underway to coordinate these efforts and establish a public-private partnership council.