I want to acknowledge the tremendous legacy of Disney Legend Toshio Kagami, who has served as Chairman and CEO of Oriental Land Company for many years. He is transitioning the role of CEO to Yumiko Takano, while continuing in his role as Chairman of OLC.
Kagami-san began working on early plans for Tokyo Disneyland back in 1960, many years before its 1983 opening. It was a privilege to be with him and Bob Iger in Tokyo this past April to celebrate the 40th anniversary of this incredible destination – the first Disney theme park built outside of the United States.
In recent years, alongside the Disney team, Kagami-san has led the expansion of Tokyo Disneyland; the opening of Toy Story Hotel; and the development of Fantasy Springs, the eighth themed port at Tokyo DisneySea, along with Fantasy Springs Hotel that will open in spring 2024. Under his leadership, the resort has brought Disney stories to life in so many incredible ways, helping millions of guests to make lifelong memories there.
During Destination D23 last fall, I had a very special opportunity to recognize Kagami-san and acknowledge our company’s valued relationship with him. We look forward to continuing that relationship, and also to working more closely with Takano-san as she takes on the CEO role.
It has been an honor to work with Kagami-san, and to see his passion and dedication to the Disney brand and to building what he has called “a kingdom of dreams and magic.” His legacy will endure with each dream come true and every moment of magic that our Tokyo Disney Resort guests experience for generations to come.