Ares Management Corporation Launches Japan’s Largest Data Center Development Fund Amid AI-Driven Demand Surge
In June 2025, Ares Management Corporation finalized fundraising for Japan DC Partners I LP, a Japan-focused fund dedicated to data center development. With total equity commitments of approximately USD 2.4 billion (JPY 350 billion), it marks one of the largest data center funds ever raised in the country, underscoring investor confidence in Japan’s surging digital infrastructure demand driven by AI and cloud computing.
The fund will develop three data center campuses with a total IT load of approximately 240 MW across Tokyo and surrounding prefectures. The projects will incorporate renewable energy sources and high-efficiency cooling systems to meet stringent sustainability standards.
Ares, a global alternative investment manager with approximately USD 546 billion in assets under management as of March 2025, intends to leverage its capital strength alongside the strategic landholdings acquired through the former Gaw Capital Partners (GCP) logistics platform to expand its footprint in Japan’s digital infrastructure market.
Development and operations will be spearheaded by Ada Infrastructure, a specialized platform Ares acquired through the GCP International acquisition. Ada brings deep execution capability, with a team of over 70 dedicated professionals and a strong track record in complex data center delivery.
Key anchor investors include the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB), which committed approximately JPY 193 billion, and GLP. CPPIB emphasized the sustained growth of data demand in the Asia-Pacific region and expects the investment to generate attractive long-term, risk-adjusted returns.
Key Facts
Fund Name: Japan DC Partners I LP (Data Center Development Project)
Fund Manager: Ares Management Corporation
Lead Investors: Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB), GLP, among others
Investment Region: Tokyo and surrounding prefectures
Total Fund Size: Approx. JPY 350 billion
Planned IT Load: Approx. 240 MW across 3 campuses