An aerial view of the Bayshore Garden property beside Vancouver’s Stanley Park

The overall development consists of 500 units of eight residential towers, 1,800 underground parking stalls for residential and hotel use, a childcare facility, 111 units of senior housing, a retail component and a 61-berth marina. Furthermore, Blue Tree made a contribution valued at more than $64 million to the City of Vancouver.

Okamoto stepped into this project in January 1992 while Japan’s Aoki Corp. was in control. Okamoto bought out the project when Aoki had financial difficulties in 2004. After Aoki’s bankruptcy, Okamoto decided to complete the project to maximize the value of the development with his talented team.

‘‘It was a big decision, but I was the only person who could accomplish this task. Also considering all of the interests, expectations and businesses with our clients, the city and Aoki, I decided to assume all the leftovers,’’ says Okamoto.

Blue Tree created and assisted in establishing Vancouver’s lifestyle. ‘‘In the ’90s, living in a condo was unacceptable for wealthier people. But we created a lifestyle for them at the Bayshore and it gradually spread through word of mouth. We offered various unique features not only in design, quality and marketing, but also focused on the creation of neighborhood communities,’’ says Okamoto.

Okamoto teamed up with Japanese and local interests. ‘‘The collaboration between Japanese and locals has been successful, which consequently increased the quality of our projects,’’ says Okamoto.

‘‘With my experience, I’d like to be an ambassador between Canada and Japan by encouraging business and entrepreneurship between the two countries.’’

Okamoto is currently involved in various businesses in Vancouver. He recently opened the Blue Tree Cafe within the Bayshore development to further promote the ‘‘neighborhood’’ feel for its residents.

www.bayshoregarden.com