# The Escape from "Tamayura Gate" - Why Carlos Ghosn Was Able to Leave Japan


# The Escape from "Tamayura Gate" - Why Carlos Ghosn Was Able to Leave Japan

Carlos Ghosn was known as a global executive, serving as the chairman and CEO of Nissan Motor Corporation. However, in November 2018, he was arrested on suspicion of financial misconduct. Despite being released on bail, he faced strict conditions such as travel restrictions and surveillance cameras while awaiting trial. Nevertheless, on December 29, 2019, Ghosn managed to escape from Japan in a manner reminiscent of a movie plot. He departed from a facility called "Tamayura Gate" at Kansai Airport. What is this facility, and how did Ghosn manage to leave from there?

## What is Tamayura Gate?

Tamayura Gate is a dedicated facility for business jets located at Kansai Airport. A business jet is a small private aircraft that individuals or companies own or charter for personal use. Tamayura Gate provides customs, immigration, and quarantine (CIQ) facilities exclusively for business jet passengers, along with a dedicated security checkpoint. It also offers reception counters, lounges, and meeting rooms, ensuring a high level of privacy for its users. Tamayura Gate was opened on June 15, 2018. The name "Tamayura" reflects the concept of wanting customers to spend valuable and wonderful moments in this space, even if it's just a short period, much like treasured jewels. The facility operates 24 hours a day, and the usage fee is 200,000 yen (excluding tax). Reservations must be made by noon on the day before the intended usage.

## Reasons for Ghosn's Departure from Tamayura Gate

Carlos Ghosn's ability to depart from Tamayura Gate can be attributed to the following factors:

- Tamayura Gate has separate entry and exit procedures and inspections for business jet passengers, with dedicated gates that can accommodate larger vehicles, allowing individuals to avoid public attention.
- Ghosn reportedly concealed himself inside a large box exceeding one meter in height, boarding a private jet. This box, intended for transporting musical instruments and audio equipment, was not subjected to X-ray checks during security and customs inspections, according to testimonies from insiders. This allowed him to remain incognito.
- Ghosn is believed to have traveled via Turkey to Lebanon. Lebanon lacks an extradition treaty with Japan, enabling him to escape prosecution from Japan.

In summary, due to the features of Tamayura Gate and Ghosn's elaborate plan, it became possible for him to escape from Japan. Ghosn remains in Lebanon, where he sought refuge, and his return to Japan seems unlikely. While he maintains his innocence, criticism of Japan's legal system has intensified. The Ghosn case has significant implications for Japan's rule of law and its relations with the international community.